Kerry Blue Terrier Dog
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a well-built, muscular, medium-sized dog with true terrier style and character. Born black at birth the coat changes color through one or more transitions. Black to very dark blue (darker than deep slate) shades or tinges of brown to different shades of blue gray.
The Kerry Blue Terrier embodies the very nature of the word ‘terrier.’ Originating in picturesque County Kerry in southwestern Ireland, the Kerry is a rugged, all-purpose farm and hunting dog. This long-legged terrier has a distinctive soft, wavy, non-shedding coat that is spectacular in show trim. Born black then turning any shade of beautiful blue grey, the Kerry has become highly competitive in the conformation ring as well as in agility and obedience.
The Kerry Blue Terrier is gentle, lovable and intelligent. They are an all-around working and utility terrier. They are successful in herding sheep and cattle. They also excel in guarding, trailing, police work and just being playful. Kerry Blues, like their name, are a rich bluish gray color, but they don’t start out that way. Kerry Blue Terriers carry what is known as the “fading gene”, apparent in some breeds such as the Briard.
The head of the Kerry Blue is long but in proportion with the rest of the body. The skull is flat with a very slight drop off (stop) between the skull and muzzle. The ears are v-shaped, set high on the skull and folded over slightly above the level of the skull. They are carried close to the cheek. The eyes are dark and small with a keen terrier expression. The jaws are deep, strong and muscular. The bite is level or scissors.
The Terrier dogs are small to medium size and are often described as fiery or feisty. The smallest terriers are ready to take on any opponents - a necessary attribute when hunting and killing vermin but not so good for a family pet! Some terriers are yappy and are known to nip boisterous children. They can also be quite independent and difficult to train. On the positive side Terriers can be friendly, stable and loyal pets.
Color is important. The correct mature color is any shade of blue gray or gray blue from the deep slate to light blue gray, of a fairly uniform color throughout except that distinctly darker to black parts may appear on the muzzle, head, ears, tail and feet. Kerry color, in its process of “clearing,” changes from an apparent black at birth to the mature gray blue or blue gray.
Good breeding, combined with proper socialization (the process by which puppies or adults dogs learn how to be friendly and get along with other dogs and people) and training, helps prevent dog aggression, but watch out. This is not a dog to back down from a fight.
