Kerry Blue Terrier

Origin

The Kerry Blue Terrier dog breed is an all-purpose farm dog,. The Kerry Blue guarded homesteads, kept pests under control, hunted and retrieved small game, and even herded livestock. It is said to descend from a dog that swam to Irish shores from a shipwreck – though there are variations to the tale. Some say the dog was a small blue-grey spaniel from the Spanish Armada, others that it was a Russian Black Terrier that ran aground in Tralee Bay, and others still that it was a Portuguese Water Dog from a cargo ship. The dog is said to have mated with native terrier breeds to produce the Kerry Blue.

Personality

A typical terrier, the Kerry Blue Terrier dog is alert, determined, and confident, and can be stubborn. He should have 'disciplined gameness' but sometimes the disciplined part can be questionable! Some can be problematic with other dogs, and so early, thorough socialisation and ongoing training is essential.

Health

Generally quite a healthy breed, the most common health problems encountered are some particular eye and skin problems.

Exercise

An hour's daily exercise is needed, though the Kerry Blue Terrier will happily accept more if you can offer it. The Kerry Blue dog is very versatile and can enjoy agility and other canine sports. After walks, do check the coat as it is a magnet for grass seeds, sticky buds etc.

Nutrition

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and also remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

Grooming

The soft, silky, wavy coat does not shed and needs daily brushing and a clip every six to eight weeks.