Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) * - Standard No. 3
Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by other registries not indicated here. For further details about dog registries, please see the document: Dog Breed Registries in North America.
* — The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is the World Canine Organisation, which includes members (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 332 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The FCI is not a breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees.
Origin:
Ireland
Height:
18.5 inches (47 cm)
Weight:
33 to 40 lbs (15-18 kg)
The Kerry Blue Terrier is native to Ireland and was originally used as an all around working Terrier, including: hunting small game, ratting, controlling farm pests, retrieving from land and water, herding, guarding and even operating the butter churn. While he was once very unkempt and rough-looking, today he is one of the most well-tailored of the Terriers.
The Kerry Blue is quick to learn, enjoys human companionship, is affectionate and very loyal to his family. His tolerant and good natured temperament make him a great companion for children. Like many of the Terrier breeds, the Kerry may be aggressive toward other dogs. This is especially true between males. He is a true Terrier in that he thrives on activity and likes to be kept busy. As a result, Kerrys participate in many dog sports and activities, including: Conformation, Agility, Obedience, Freestyle, Earthdog Trials, Hunting, and Herding. They are also used to work as Therapy Dogs and in Search and Rescue.
He has a non-shedding coat that is soft, dense and wavy. The Kerry Blue Terrier is born black and the blue-grey colouring appears by 18 months of age. He may also have darker colouring around the muzzle, head, ears, tail and feet.
If you are considering the adoption of a Kerry Blue Terrier puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
AKC KERRY BLUE TERRIER VIDEO
17 Min. Video Edition Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com
The Kerry Blue Terrier is non-shedding thus producing very little dander making him an excellent choice for allergy sufferers, nor does he have any doggy odour, even when wet. However, his coat is high maintenance and requires almost daily brushing, frequent bathing and monthly trimming to keep his coat in good condition.
Grooming — This section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.
SHOW GROOMING THE KERRY BLUE TERRIER VIDEO
2 Hr Video Edition Published by the Sonnen Productions
Features well-known professional handler Bill McFadden. Note that this is show grooming!
— Available from Dogwise.com
Training — For information on training your Kerry Blue Terrier, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
Clubs, Sports & Activities — Information on various dog sports and activities as well as listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (Note: For Kerry Blue Terrier specific Breed Clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
Working Dogs — This section covers all the wonderful jobs that dogs are involved in, including Therapy Dogs, SAR Dogs, Police Dogs, and much more.
Note: We are always in need of articles for the individual breed sections. Submissions are welcome and encouraged. Please feel free to e-mail us.
Select from the following links to view Kerry Blue Terrier Breeder listings; Breed Clubs; Shows and Events; Rescue Organizations; as well as Books and Merchandise specific to the Kerry Blue Terrier breed:
