An animated, alert and adaptable dog that combines a stylish look with a bold, feisty terrier spirit. It makes a keen watchdog and a fun, engaged companion for an active family.53
how to spot oneKerry Blue Terrier coat and colours
soft, dense, wavy single coat
A strong, well-balanced terrier with a soft, silky, wavy coat that is usually trimmed to show off its outline, including a neat beard and fall over the eyes.231
Coloursany shade of blue-grey or grey-blue, from deep slate to light blue-greyblack points allowedpuppies are born black and clear to blue231
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Kerry Blue Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year
how busy a day looksKerry Blue Terrier exercise needs
Up to about an hour of exercise a day, plus games that use its brain.3
where they are happiestKerry Blue Terrier at home
Adapts well to town or country homes as long as it gets daily walks and play; a secure garden helps.53
who they like aroundKerry Blue Terrier with people and other pets
A devoted family dog that likes to be involved in daily life; early socialisation helps it mix well with other dogs.53
the hands-on bitsKerry Blue Terrier grooming and care
Brush about once a week; the coat does not shed much, so regular professional trimming keeps its shape.3
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Kerry Blue Terrier, and at what times?
Feed your Kerry Blue Terrier at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. The exact times can fit your routine, but consistency helps. For amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.6
What should a Kerry Blue Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for its age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always consult your vet for specific dietary advice.7
How often should I bathe a Kerry Blue Terrier?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance says at least every three months. Adjust based on how dirty your dog gets.8Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Kerry Blue Terrier need brushing?
Brush your Kerry Blue Terrier about once a week to keep its soft, wavy coat tidy. Since it doesn't shed much, weekly brushing is usually enough.3Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Kerry Blue Terrier's nails, and how often?
Trim nails when you hear them clicking on the floor, about every 4 weeks. Cut a little at a time and stop before the quick (the pink part). If unsure, ask a vet or groomer.8Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Kerry Blue Terrier need?
Your Kerry Blue Terrier needs up to about an hour of exercise daily, plus games that challenge its mind. Daily walks and playtime will keep it happy and healthy.3Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Kerry Blue Terrier's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for dirt or redness. Never insert anything into the ear canal. Pet Wiki suggests daily brushing and a fortnightly ear check.8Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Kerry Blue Terrier live?
A Kerry Blue Terrier typically lives about 12 to 15 years. A 2024 UK study found a median lifespan of about 12.4 years. Proper care and regular vet visits help support a long life.31
Is a Kerry Blue Terrier good with children and other pets?
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a devoted family dog that can be good with children when raised together, but its feisty terrier nature means early socialisation is important. It generally gets along with other dogs if introduced properly, but supervision is advised.53
Can a Kerry Blue Terrier be left alone?
Kerry Blue Terriers are devoted and like to be part of family life, so they may not do well left alone for long periods. It varies by individual; ask a good breeder or your vet for advice on your dog's needs.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
per year, in your countryWhat a Kerry Blue Terrier costs
Running costs for a Kerry Blue Terrier, built from current prices in each country: food scaled to the weight of the breed, insurance to its size, the rest per country. The purchase price and unplanned vet bills come on top.
Estimates from the sources linked on each line. Food: a complete dry food at about 3,600 kcal/kg at the NRC maintenance energy for the average weight of the breed. Insurance: a typical adult policy scaled by size; real quotes depend on breed, age and cover.
by countryIs the Kerry Blue Terrier legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Kerry Blue Terrier in the 61 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
Kerry Blue puppies are born black and gradually 'clear' to blue by about 18 months of age.3
2
Irish leader Michael Collins owned a Kerry Blue named Convict 224 and hoped to make it Ireland's national dog.1
This morning, I woke up to the smell of dew on the grass and immediately dashed to the window to bark at a cheeky squirrel. After a quick patrol of the garden, I helped my human find a missing sock (I knew where it was all along). Then we played a brilliant game of fetch with a squeaky ball, and I used my clever nose to find the treat hidden in the living room. In the afternoon, I curled up on the sofa, keeping one eye on the postman. The best part was the evening walk, where I met my friend, a spotted spaniel, and we chased shadows together. A perfect, busy day.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
where it all beganKerry Blue Terrier history
The Kerry Blue developed as an all-round farm dog in County Kerry, hunting vermin, going after otters in rivers and even herding. It was first shown in 1913 as the Irish Terrier (Blue), took the name Kerry Blue Terrier at a Killarney show in 1916 and was recognised by The Kennel Club in 1922.315
Irish Terrier
Bedlington Terrier
Glen of Imaal Terrier