Are Kerry Blue Terriers Hypoallergenic?
Yes! The Kerry Blue Terrier is a medium-sized hypoallergenic dog breed that sheds or drools very little.
Kerry Blues are amazing dogs. That’s the first thing you should know. They’re happy, clownish velcro dogs that must be with you, always. Want some privacy in the bathroom? Not gonna happen.
The downside to the Kerry Blue Terrier is that they do have that stubborn, independent streak, which can make training a challenge. So, if you want to be a Kerry Blue person, you’ve got to have a great sense of humor — and patience.
And, for people with allergies, the good news is that the Blue’s wavy medium-length coat is hypoallergenic and hardly sheds at all.
Kerry Blue Terrier Quick Facts
The Kerry Blue Terrier Physical Characteristics and Coat
Tall, muscular, and square — Kerry Blue Terriers have a quirky beard that sits on the end of their long, flat faces. The Blue has a similar face to the Airedale Terrier, Welsh Terrier, and Irish Terrier. In fact, they’re pretty similar to all three of these dogs. Kerry Blues also have adorable little v-shaped ears and dark eyes.
Kerry Blue Terrier’s Coat
Kerry Blues are actually born black, but their coat will come into their full grayish-blue hue at roughly 18 months. The striking blue coat comes in a variety of shades. Some Blues are still almost black when fully grown, whereas others are a lighter, silver color. Similar to the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Kerry Blues have a medium-length, wavy coat.
Kerry Blue Terrier — Height and Weight
While Airedales are known as The King of the Terriers, Kerry Blues are also one of the larger-sized dogs in the Terrier group. They can weigh up to 40 pounds, and adult males grow to around 18 to 19.5 inches. Females are a touch smaller — 17.5 to 19 inches.
Kerry Blue Terrier Temperament
Kerry Blues may only be medium sized, but they have a BIG personality. These Terriers are loyal dogs, so much so that they’re known as ‘velcro dogs.’ The Blue will want to spend every second with their human, and they love to cuddle up on your feet, lap, bed — anywhere you are!
However, while Kerry Blue Terriers are wonderful companions, they can develop an aggressive side if not socialized early on. The Blue is also likely to chase wildlife and small pets, thanks to their hunting roots. And, they possess that independent and stubborn streak — typical of Terriers, which can sometimes lead to naughty behavior.
But, don’t let what we just said put you off — Kerry Blue Terriers are hilarious! These dogs are canine comedians and will have all members of the family laughing at their antics.
Are You Considering Getting a Kerry Blue Terrier?
Here’s what to watch out for :
- Kerry Blue Terriers can have issues with aggression towards other dogs, and going to the dog park is something only a very well-socialized Kerry Blue can handle.
- Their coat requires quite a lot of grooming. You can expect to visit the groomer around every 6 to 8 weeks.
- Despite being intelligent, their stubbornness and independence can make them difficult to train.
- Kerry Blues will sometimes get a kick out of spooking, chasing, and otherwise getting a rise out of smaller pets.
- Be prepared to brush your Kerry Blue Terrier on a daily basis.
- The coat of the Kerry has a habit of collecting the wilderness and tracking it indoors if you go for woods walkies.
- They will surely bring you back all sorts of dead animal trophies as ‘sweet gifts.’
- Kerry Blue Terriers don’t do well with being alone for long stretches of time. They absolutely must be by their human’s side.
- You can’t trust a Kerry off-leash. They will bolt after prey, and it will take you forever to track them down.
- Kerry Blues can be pushy and bossy, so you must be consistent in your discipline for their entire life.
Training Tips – Encouraging Good Behavior in Your Kerry Blue Terrier
Kerry Blue Terriers aren’t just hypoallergenic, they’re super intelligent too. These clever dogs excel in obedience, agility, and herding sports, but their stubborn side can make puppy training challenging.
All Terrier breeds can be strong-willed and headstrong at times. If you want your Blue to be well-behaved, puppy classes are a must. Training your Kerry Blue isn’t challenging because they aren’t smart enough to learn commands, it’s because they are too independent at times and just want to do their own thing!
If you don’t want your Kerry Blue Terrier to develop aggressive behavior, socialize them early on. Blues can chase other dogs in the park or may even fight with other animals. To avoid this, make sure your Blue spends lots of time around other animals and pets during their puppy days.
Kerry Blue Terrier Exercise Needs
Kerry Blues are one of the funniest non-shedding medium-sized dog breeds, but they’re energetic and playful too. You’ll need to walk your Kerry Blue for around one hour each day. Some owners choose to split this daily exercise time into two 30-minute walks.
While bursting with energy, the Blue loves to cuddle their owners too. As velcro dogs, they want to spend as much time as possible with their owner. They’re a breed that thrives when they’re being both mentally and physically stimulated.
However, if you want to go to the dog park, keep your Blue on the leash! Kerry Blues love to chase, and once they’ve locked in on their ‘prey,’ it can be tough to get them back under control.
Maintaining Your Kerry Blue Terrier’s Coat
Do Kerry Blue Terriers shed a lot? As a non-shedding dog, Kerry Blue Terriers are unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. However, Blues have high-maintenance grooming needs. You’ll need to brush your Terrier every day to keep their curls under control and stop their coat from matting.
When brushing a Kerry Blue, don’t forget about their beard! The best way to keep their stunning blue coat in top condition is to clip it, ideally every 6 to 8 weeks.
What Makes a Kerry Blue Terrier Hypoallergenic?
The Kerry Blue Terrier is hypoallergenic because they’re low shedding and don’t release much dander. Despite popular belief, dog allergies aren’t caused by fur, it’s the dander that causes the problems. Dander is the name given to dead skin cells — similar to dandruff.
If you want to find out more about allergy-friendly dogs, read our article — What is a Hypoallergenic Dog?
Teeth, Ears, and Nails
To stop their tiny talons from growing too long, carefully clip your Blue’s nails every 3 to 4 weeks. Good dental health is also important for dogs — Kerry Blue Terriers need their teeth brushed approximately twice a week.
Ear infections can occur if you don’t keep your dog’s ears clean and free from excessive hair. Kerry Blues will need their cute ears washed gently once a month.
- Hip dysplasia.
- Inflammatory bowel disease.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease.
- Patent Ductus Arteriosi — heart defect.
- Cancer.
- Ear infections.
Similar Dog Breeds To Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a canine comedian with bags of energy and love. Their coat is not only a beautiful blue, it’s low-shedding too. Hence, this breed is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction if you suffer from dog allergies.
But, Blues can be aggressive, so you must socialize them early on. Get your puppy used to being around other dogs and different people to avoid their angry side from rearing its ugly head.
On the whole, Kerry Blue Terriers are big-hearted velcro dogs — just don’t forget the puppy training! As you’ve learned, these blue canines are cute and clever, and now you also know the answer to the question — is the Kerry Blue Terrier hypoallergenic?
Do Kerry Blue Terriers Shed?
Hardly ever. These dogs have a stunning blue coat, with soft waves or curls. Fortunately for people with allergies, Kerry Blues don’t blow their coat and only shed a tiny amount all year round.
Do Kerry Blue Terriers Bark a Lot?
Like many other Terrier breeds, Kerry Blues are noisy. These dogs aren’t constantly yappy, but they bark often — especially when they think they need to protect their family. However, Blues can be taught to be less vocal, you just need to be consistent with your training methods.
Are Kerry Blue Terriers Good for Allergy Sufferers?
Indeed. Hypoallergenic Kerry Blue Terriers hardly shed or drool. Allergens are found in a dog’s urine, saliva, and dander, so low shedders and low droolers are a good choice for allergy sufferers.
Are Kerry Blue Terriers Good With Kids?
Yes. Children of all ages. However, Blues are highly-spirited and high-energy, and need to be socialized early on, so they’re used to spending time with lots of different people. These dogs love to play and will make a fun best friend for your children.
Are Kerry Blue Terriers Good Family Dogs?
For sure. These hypoallergenic dogs are well suited to families with allergies, and their low-shedding coat is perfect for anyone wanting to avoid dog hair in their home. Blues need a lot of daily exercise and enjoy living with owners who like long walks — as well as a cuddle afterward.
Is the Kerry Blue Terrier Good for Apartments?
Providing they have plenty of exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day, the Kerry Blue can adapt well to high-rise living. These dogs adore being with their owners, whether that’s walking in the park or cuddling up on the couch.
What Are the Kerry Blue Terrier Pros and Cons?
Pros:
- Funny, intelligent, loving, and playful.
- Hypoallergenic — hardly shed, low drooling too.
- Good with/for apartments, families, and kids of all ages.
Cons:
- Typical Terrier temperament — stubborn and strong-willed at times.
- Not great with other animals — training and socialization is crucial.
| Breed | Kerry Blue Terrier |
| Other Names? | Irish Blue Terrier |
| Hypoallergenic? | Yes |
| Height | (male) 18 – 19.5 inches (female) 17 – 19 inches |
| Weight | 33 – 40 pounds |
| Lifespan | 12 – 15 years |
| Temperament | Intelligent, alert, playful, highly-spirited, strong-willed, funny, affectionate, charismatic, stubborn, independent |
| Colors | Black, blue, gray, silver (various shades) |
| Coat | Medium, wavy, single coat |
| How much grooming? | High maintenance — daily brushing needed |
| How much shedding | Very low |
| Dander levels | Low |
| Saliva–Drooling and licking frequency? | Low |
| Energy levels | High-energy breed |
| How much exercise do they need? | Active — two 30-minute walks a day |
| Health problems | Prone to inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, hip dysplasia |
| Good for apartment? | Yes — but needs daily time outdoors too |
| Suitable for kids? | Yes |
| How much do they bark? | Vocal |
| Can they be left alone? | Not good with being left alone |
| Intelligent? | Clever and strong-willed |
| Trainable? | Can be difficult to train — stubborn at times |
| How popular as a pet? | Low popularity (ranked 134th in AKC’s most popular breeds list) |
| Any other important facts? | Kerry Blue Terriers are all born black. As they age their fur lightens and turns a shade of blue. This Terrier gets its name from the Irish county where they originated — County Kerry. |
