National Dog of Ireland With the development of dog shows in the late 19th and early 20th century the breed became standardised and tidied up for the show ring. It was closely associated with Irish nationalism with the nationalist leader Michael Collins owning a famous Kerry Blue named Convict 225. Indeed Collins made an attempt to have the Kerry blue adopted as the national dog of Ireland. It should be stated, however, that the love of dogs crossed political divides. The first show of the Dublin Irish Blue Terrier club took place outside official curfew hours and was entered by those fighting for and against an Ireland Republic. The Dublin Irish Blue Terrier Club was so successful it led directly to the foundation of the Irish Kennel Club. A Kerry blue was the first dog registered with the Irish Kennel Club. Appearance Some characteristics of the Kerry Blue Terrier include a long head, flat skull, deep chest, and a soft wavy to curly coat that comes in several shades of blue (the term for "gray" in dog coats). Puppies are born black; the blue appears gradually as the puppy grows older, usually up to 2 years of age. The ideal Kerry should be :
Weight: Mature dog 15-16.8 kg (33-37 lbs) Bitches proportionately less, 15.9 kg (35 lbs) is the most desirable weight to aim for. Ideal height: Dogs 46-48 cms (18-19 ins) at shoulder Bitches slightly less.
Grooming The Kerry Blue Terrier doesn't shed but the Kerry owner will pay his dues as coat care is extensive. The coat is close to the structure of human hair, similar to that of the Poodle or Maltese, which makes the Kerry an option for some people with pet hair allergies. It should be remembered that allergies are sometimes caused by tiny flakes of the animals' skin rather than the hair itself. If you have a dust allergy (household dust is composed mainly of flakes of human skin!) be very careful in considering any pet. The coat is soft and wavy but of one layer and not the common terrier structure of a soft undercoat below a harsh outer coat. It never stops growing and so requires regular brushing to prevent matting (at least once a week, daily is better!) and trimming every six to ten weeks. In the past it was the matting of the coat that protected the working Kerries from rain, cold, water and mud. Todays trimmed and groomed pet Kerry should not be kept outside all the time and should be dried immediately when back at home.
Temperament Kerry Blue Terriers are strong-headed and highly spirited. They have always been loyal and affectionate towards their owners and very gentle towards children but were often considered downright mean toward other animals including other dogs. In the early days of competitive dog showing the Irish Kennel Club required Kerries had to pass a "gameness" test, known as Teastas Mor certification, before they were deemed worthy of being judged. These tests included catching rabbits and bringing a badger to bay in its set. They were not nicknamed "Blue Devils" for nothing! Modern breeders have attempted to retain high spirits whilst breeding out aggression. They have achieved a great deal but the Kerry can still be dog aggressive and vocal so socialization from puppy-hood is an absolute necessity to prevent future problems and veterinary bills. Together with the Airedale Terrier, the Kerry is one of the best-suited terriers for work. They are fast, strong, and intelligent. They do well in obedience, dog agility, sheep herding, and tracking. They have been used as police dogs in Ireland. As a long-legged breed, the activity level of the Kerry Blue Terrier ranges from moderate to high. They require an active, skilled owner who can provide them with early socialization and obedience training. Kerries require exercise daily; such as walks, jogs, agility-training, or other day care activities to keep them busy and occupied. Combine this with the grooming needs and you have a dog that requires considerable time spent on it. Kerries are not for everyone but in the right home they are a good family companion. |