The Kerry Blue Terrier is a compact, muscular, medium-sized terrier with
moderately long legs. The breed takes its name from its wavy, blue coat. The
preferred ratio of length of body (prosternum to point of buttocks) to height
(withers to ground) to is 10:9. The head is long, but not exaggerated, with
small, V-shaped, button ears. The tail is set on high, carried erect, and docked
to a moderate length.
Characteristics
Correct temperament is as essential for Kerry breed type as the blue color.
The English standard describes it as "disciplined gameness," and it is an
intensity of spirit that gives the Kerry an alert, ready-for-action personality.
The Kerry is enthusiastic but strong-willed, so training can be a challenge.
Kerries thrive with lots of human companion-ship, provided the owner is at
least as strong-willed as the dog. The Kerry Blue Terrier's thick, wavy coat
requires regular grooming to maintain a smart, tailored appearance.
Temperament
Disciplined gameness.
History
The origin of the Kerry Blue Terrier has been the subject of many theories but
its true ancestors will probably never be known. The Kerry is one of three
long-legged terrier breeds developed in Ireland by crofters who needed
all-purpose farm dogs, capable of herding, guarding, hunting, retrieving, and
vermin control. Many people consider that one of these breeds, the
Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, is an ancestor of the Kerry Blue Terrier. It is
also believed the Irish Wolfhound contributed to the development of this
breed.
Notwithstanding the romantic tales of this breed's origin, the Kerry was first
known as a distinct breed by the end of the 19th century. The "Irish Blue
Terrier," as it was called was first shown in Britain shortly before World War I,
and the first Kerries were imported into the United States just after that war.
Kerry Blue Terriers have been used to do nearly every canine job, including
hunting, herding, and police/military work.
Origin
Ireland
Utilization
-
Classification
Terriers
Size
Medium
Height
Dogs 46-48 cms (18-19 ins) at shoulder. Bitches slightly less.
Weight
Mature dog 15-16.8 kg (33-37 lbs). Bitches proportionately less, 15.9 kg (35 lbs).
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