Uncovering 10 Facts About Kerry Blue Terriers
Is the Kerry Blue Terrier Right for You?
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a spirited and intelligent breed known for its playful nature and strong-willed temperament. They are loyal companions with a friendly disposition towards their family members, but they can be wary of strangers. Kerry Blue Terriers require consistent training to channel their high energy.
Kerry Blue Terrier Origin & History
Kerry Blue Terriers, as their name suggests, originated in the Kerry mountains in Ireland and were initially bred for hunting small game and controlling vermin. Their history is a bit of a mystery, with various theories attempting to explain their origins. One prevalent theory proposes that they descended from a breed called the Harlequin Terrier due to their similar appearance. Some have even suggested the were bred with Irish Wolfhounds although, due to the difference in size, that seems highly unlikely. However, the exact lineage and development of the Kerry Blue Terrier remain uncertain.
Kerry Blue Terrier Breed Recognition
Kerry Blue Terriers, also known as Irish Blue Terriers, have a history dating back to the late 1800s. Their presence in dog shows in Ireland began in the early 1900s, and they made their debut at the prestigious Crufts dog show in England in 1922. This breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1922, by the United Kennel Club (UK) in 1948 and later, by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1963. In Irish, they are known as Brocaire Gorm.
Kerry Blue Terrier Symbolism
The Kerry Blue terrier holds a significant place in Irish history as a symbol of the country’s fight for independence from British rule. This spirited dog breed was embraced as a mascot for the cause, representing the resilience and determination of the Irish people during that time. Michael Collins, an influential figure in Ireland’s struggle for freedom, recognized the symbolic power of the Kerry Blue and even proposed legislation in the 1920s to designate it as the national dog of Ireland. Tragically, Collins met an untimely end before his vision could be realized, and the legislation advocating for the Kerry Blue terrier as Ireland’s national dog faded away with him.
Kerry Blue Terrier Closest Canine Relatives
In Landmark Research on Modern Dog Breed development, the Kerry Blue Terrier has been shown to share the most DNA with a common ancestor of the following 3 breeds:
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Irish Terrier
Glen of Imal Terrier
Unique Coat Color and Breed Standard
One of the most striking features of Kerry Blue Terriers is their distinctive blue coat, which sets them apart from other terrier breeds. However, their coat doesn’t start out blue; puppies are born with a black coat that gradually changes to blue as they mature. The exact genetic mechanism behind this color change is still not fully understood. According to AKC breed standard, their dense, hard coat color can be: “any shade of blue gray or gray blue from the deep slate to light blue gray“, and a solid black dog older than 18 months is to be disqualified from the show ring. In terms of size, the Kerry Blue can grow to about 20 inches in height and 40 pounds in weight.
While there are no Truly Hypoallergenic Dogs
the Kerry Blue terrier is on the AKC of list of Hypoallergenic Dogs as one of the best breeds for allergy sufferers. They are considered a low-odor, low-shedding breed.
How Fast Can a Kerry Blue Terrier Run?
The AKC Conducts Dog Racing Trials each December in Orlando, FL. called the Fast CAT Invitational. This is a 100 yard race where dogs run individually chasing a lure. The average running speed by Kerry Blue terriers is about 23.05 mph. The fastest recorded speed by a dog named Mcblu’s Red Hot Valentine at 27.67 mph!
Kerry Blue Terrier Personality & Temperament
Research has associated 5 distinct personality traits with dogs: playful, social, exploratory, avoidant and aggressive behavior. While there are variations within breeds, personality is generally consistent in dogs. Kerry Blue terriers are usually high in playful, social and exploratory behaviors and low in avoidant and aggressive behaviors.
1. Kerry Blues are known to be alert and highly trainable.
2. They tend to have a high prey drive and will chase other small animals.
3. They are excellent in conformation, obedience and agility trials.
4. They are an active, energetic breed and need daily exercise.
5. It is said by Kerry Blue owners that their dogs can almost sense their emotions and will to try to “lighten the mood” when they are having a bad day.
Kerry Blue Terrier Humor!
Kerry Blue Terrier Intelligence
In the Landmark Book entitled, “The Intelligence of Dogs”, professor Stanley Coren researched and documented the intelligence of over 130 different dog breeds. In his book, the Kerry Blue Terrier ranks 35th out of 138 breeds in working/obedience intelligence. Essentially this means they will learn new commands in 15 to 25 repetitions and obey first commands 70% of the time or better. This puts them in the “above average working and obedience intelligence” category. In contrast, the least intelligent breeds will learn the same commands in 80-100 repetitions!
Kerry Blue Terriers Health and Lifespan
Kerry Blue Terriers have an average lifespan of 12-15 years. They are a robust breed, but there are some health problems to be aware of :
Progressive Neuronal Abiotrophy (PNA)
Factor XI deficiency
Degenerative Myelopathy
Check Your Kerry Blue Terrier Facts and take a fun Kerry Blue Quiz!
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Facts About Kerry Blue Terriers-Final Thoughts
Kerry Blue Terriers are unique dogs that make wonderful companions for those willing to put in the time and effort. From their stunning blue coat to their high energy level and intelligence, Kerry Blue Terriers are well rounded pups. To ensure they thrive, regular grooming, proper socialization, obedience training, and plenty of exercise are essential. These intelligent dogs excel in dog sports and obedience training, requiring both mental stimulation and physical exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Kerry Blue Terrier puppies can be a joy to train and raise, benefiting greatly from positive reinforcement dog training starting at an early age and enough exercise and attention to keep their curious minds occupied. With the right care and attention, Kerry Blue Terriers can be great dogs for those looking for an active and loyal companion.
