Group 3 · Terriers
Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium-sized Irish terrier with a soft, wavy blue-grey coat that sheds little. It is clever, playful and loyal, but also self-assured and not always tolerant of other dogs.
Health
There is no breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen (Animal Welfare Flanders) for this breed (yet). Without an approved breeding programme, no Flemish pedigree can be issued, but a lineage certificate can. Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen strongly recommends carrying out the health tests on the parent dogs.
View the official breeding programmes
This breed profile is not a breed sheet within the meaning of the Flemish Breeding Decree (Fokkerijbesluit). The legal rules for breeding this breed are set out in the official breeding programme.
Considerations when buying
There is no breeding programme approved by Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen for this breed (yet). Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen strongly recommends carrying out the health tests on the parent dogs. Ask the breeder which health tests the parent dogs have had, and ask for the results. A Kerry Blue Terrier needs plenty of daily exercise and variety. Its coat is trimmed or hand-stripped a few times a year and brushed weekly in between.
Questions for the breeder
- Which health tests have the parent dogs had, and may I see the results?
- Will the puppy receive a pedigree or a lineage certificate, and from which association?
- How are the puppies socialised before they go to their new home?
Breed-specific challenges
Being a true terrier, it is brave and self-assured, may dig and chase small animals, and is not always tolerant of other dogs. Socialisation as a puppy and consistent training with short, varied sessions are important.
More background
General guides that help you understand this breed information and choose well.
