One of the oldest dog breeds that appeared in Ireland is the Kerry Blue Terrier. For the Irish people, it is considered the national symbol of their country. This pet is very peculiar both in appearance and in character. What features distinguish it from other dog breeds? Complete information about this extraordinary pet will help answer this question.
History
Looking through the dog breeds with photos, it is impossible to miss the Kerry Blue. Among all, he stands out for his unusual appearance and beautiful blue hair, which is the result of the selection work of scientists, which took place over the years and aimed at improving this type of terriers.
There is no exact information about the original origin of the breed. All information is more like legends. One thing is certain: the Kerry Blue Terrier is a native of Ireland (County Kerry). The breed has been over 150 years old. For the first time its reliable description appeared in 1847.
This breed was presented at the first exhibition in 1913, and in 1924 the Dublin club, which breeds blue terriers, was registered. The Irish people made this breed a symbol of the country's independence along with a shamrock. By 1925, there were already four pedigree clubs in Ireland, which organized exhibitions and tests of the working qualities of blue terriers. Such vigorous activity interested dog breeders from other countries. Animals were exported to Canada, the USA and some European states.
At an exhibition held in 1928, the title “Almost Perfect Dog” was given to the Kerry Blue Terrier. The dog became the third breed, which was officially recognized by the young International Canine Federation (ICF).
Temperament
The Blue Terrier is a cheerful and intelligent dog. She is a devoted friend and faithful companion for life. The description of the dog breeds, compiled by experts, highlights the following features of this pet:
- high efficiency;
- instant reaction;
- curiosity;
- ruthless attitude to the offender;
- natural flair for negative and positive motives;
- mobility.
Despite the fact that this four-legged friend took root perfectly in the apartment, it is impossible to keep him as a decorative animal. Initially, the breed was formed for hunting small game or rodents - it is a born hunter who must spend a lot of time in active physical activity.
Curiosity, a natural mind and cheerfulness of Kerry Blue directs him to the constant development of new skills and knowledge. He cannot be assiduous, as he is always drawn to gaining new knowledge. These traits make the pet well trained. The conscientious fulfillment of goals, leadership, attempts to prove oneself and please the owner - this is typical behavior for the Kerry Blue Terrier breed. Photos of these four-legged friends completely convey their character. The ears directed forward emphasize the lively and interested expression of the muzzle. The attentive and penetrating gaze of dark eyes gives out the mind and natural flair.
This pet is very friendly towards children and often takes part in games with them. Devotion and love towards all the inhabitants of the family at Kerry Blue simply knows no boundaries, but he treats strangers wary. Feeling the danger to loved ones, the pet is able to show all the power and strength to protect the owner.
What are terriers?
According to the IFF classification, Kerry Blue belongs to standard No. 3 of section No. 1 (medium-sized dogs) and to group No. 3 (terriers, which includes other similar breeds of dogs). The names of these pets are: Lakeland Terrier, Scotch Terrier, West Highland White Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier. They differ in appearance, character and passion for hunting. The first differences in the descriptions of the listed breeds appeared many years ago. Most modern terriers are of British origin. They are still divided into animals bred on Scottish, English and Irish territories. Breeds of dogs whose names have the word "terrier" are represented by many beautiful pets. The brightest, most unusual and distinguished of them is rightfully Kerry Blue.
Breed application
The explosive and bold nature of Kerry Blue dogs makes them excellent guards.
They will faithfully guard the object entrusted to them and are not afraid to enter the battle even with an opponent larger than themselves. This breed will be a great friend for the hunter. It can be used to search for small predators and rabbits. The blue terrier swims remarkably, so in ancient times it was used to catch otters. In addition, this pet is an excellent Pied Piper.
The dog is very smart and loyal to the owner, so it becomes an excellent companion for life.
External standards
The height at the withers of males is about 45-49 cm (18-19 inches), and that of females is 45-48 cm (17-18 inches). The average weight ranges from 15-18 kg. The description of the dog breeds, compiled by the ICF, highlights such standard external indicators:
- the head is powerful and large, covered with plentiful wool, with a mild transition from the forehead to the muzzle;
- the ears resemble an isosceles triangle;
- eyes of dark shades have an expression of some wariness;
- nose with large and wide nostrils;
- gums and palate of dark shades;
- powerful jaws have developed muscles and are able to provide a strong grip;
- short croup;
- a strong skeleton with a dry constitution, muscles in the area of the shoulder blades, a deep chest and a flat back;
- a highly set thin tail is held upright;
- straight limbs with well-developed muscles;
- the coat is wavy and thick, soft to the touch;
- any color of a blue hue is possible, as well as dyeing of the ends of the hair in black tones (up to a year and a half, black or brown-red color of the coat is allowed).
Looking at dog breeds with photos, you can see that Kerry Blue compares favorably with its appearance. Elegant shiny coat of an unusual shade, proud posture and proportional complexion distinguish it among its brothers with a truly aristocratic look.
Puppies
The kids of the blue terrier have black fur, which will become bluish in color by the age of 2-3 years. The first hairstyle is done after changing teeth. It is in the first year that the foundation of the pet’s health is laid, so care, walking, proper feeding and adequate education are important during this period.
It should be remembered that puppies of the Kerry Blue Terrier are rather fragile individuals with a weak muscle system and ligaments. It is important not to lift them unnecessarily, not to allow anyone to drag, hold or pull the tail. If you want to take the baby in your arms, then lift it under the breast and seat with both hands at the same time. You can’t take under the tummy!
The place to sleep should be soft, spacious and away from the heating system and drafts. In the rooms visited by small inhabitants, it is necessary to remove all dangerous or valuable things: small objects, wires, appliances, hanging curtains, tablecloths, etc., into an unattainable place.
Special toys made of pressed rubber or latex, which can be found at every point in pet products, are simply necessary. They help to avoid damage to things, develop a pet and relieve it from boredom. You can use children's toys made of elastic plastic or rubber, as well as sticks made of thick wood.
Until three months of age, unpleasant piles and puddles on the floor cannot be avoided. Punishing or scolding a baby for a natural need is unacceptable. To keep the house clean, you need to organize several trays, diapers or a bunch of newspapers and train your pet to cope with the need in the right place.
After three months, you can start walking with moderate physical activity. As the baby grows, the duration of the walks gradually increases. If you take the puppy out 4-6 times a day from three to four months old, then he will quickly get used to defecate outside the house.
Possible difficulties
Sociability, intelligence and cleverness in the blood of the Kerry Blue Terrier breed. Character, however, also has a negative trait - bullying. Because of his hot Irish temperament, the pet not only loves fights - he is ready to provoke their appearance and take an active part. It contains natural aggressiveness towards other animals, including dogs.
Experts argue that such behavior manifests itself only with the incorrect upbringing of a four-legged friend or his late socialization. That is why long walks in a fellow society are so useful. This deficiency can be corrected by starting to raise a pet as soon as possible. However, it should be noted that the dog has a bright personality and unique temperament, so the severity of upbringing should be moderate, and it is better to exclude pressure on the pet.
The next difficulty can be the time-consuming care of the Kerry Blue coat and its cutting, which requires the availability of qualifications or the help of a specialist.
Parenting
Already from 3-4 months during a walk, you can start educational activities and teach the puppy dog training skills. Kerry Blue Terrier is prone to pugnacity by the properties of his temperament. The correct educational process helps to avoid such a problem in behavior, and the pet will learn to respect the dog breeder. Education is built on such subtleties as: adequate firmness, friendly cooperation and full respect for the personality of his ward. The Blue Terrier absolutely does not bear any pressure or rudeness in his address, but you can agree with him at any time in a good way. You should not immediately scold the pet, perhaps he did not understand the desire of the owner. The main thing is to learn to understand your four-legged friend and clearly explain your demand. This breed is very smart in nature and lends itself well to training skills, so you can easily find contact with it. You can make an excellent athlete out of Kerry Blue, thanks to his good memory and the presence of drive and excitement, laid down genetically.
Education should be consistent and moderately strict. Particular attention should be paid to aggression towards other animals, suppressing and not encouraging it initially. In order to help socialize and avoid problems with behavior in the future, you need to find suitable companions for walking as early as possible. You should know that this breed does not apply to pets and will suit the owner, who has enough time and desire to walk, care and raise his four friend.
How to care for wool?
Chic wool of bluish hues is one of the main advantages that the Kerry Blue Terrier can be proud of. Description of the breed emphasizes that the coat is wavy, thick, similar to silk. In addition, she does not have an unpleasant "dog" smell and molt.
Before you begin the process of cutting, you need to prepare a pet. It must be combed thoroughly, and then washed and dried. The dog is combing against the hair. During the haircut, you need to force the animal to take the correct pose, as in the exhibition.
Shearing a Kerry Blue Terrier requires a certain skill, knowledge of the breed anatomy and its standards. Professionally performed cutting work will not only hide some of the shortcomings in the addition of the animal, but also emphasize the advantages of its figure. A trimmed dog should not look as if it had just stepped out of a hair salon. The transitions between parts of his body should be performed smoothly, naturally and beautifully.
It is better to trim the pet 2-5 weeks before the exhibition, hoping that by the right day the length of the fur on the back is about 3-5 cm.
For home care of the fur of a four-legged friend, you will need a natural bristle brush, a metal comb with rare cloves and a special brush with bent metal cloves. If the owner himself wants to cut his pet, then you will still need to purchase sharp, high-quality scissors and a clipper.
The four-legged friend needs to be combed thoroughly, at least three times a week, otherwise the wool will take on an untidy appearance and worms will form in it. It is better to do a haircut at least once in three months or as the coat grows.
Care
Care measures imply not only regular cutting and combing of the Kerry Blue Terrier breed. The photo of the pets confirms that they have a long beard and fur on their faces, which also require constant attention. It is better to collect wool with an elastic band, otherwise the beard will appear unkempt and contaminated by food. Most often, it is washed after each feeding. In addition, hairs, getting into the eyes, can cause suppuration. Regrown hair can be shortened a little with scissors.
Kerry Blue also needs other systematic procedures. It should be remembered about cleaning the eyes of the pet. Every day they need to be wiped with a cotton swab dipped in clean water. Once every two weeks, it is necessary to inspect the auricles and clean them as they become dirty. Claws should be shortened monthly. Plaque removal should also be included in the list of regular events. This must be done at least once every three weeks to avoid the appearance of stones.
Possible diseases
The Kerry Blue Terrier breed is notable for good health and a strong immune system. These dogs are not prone to any disease. Nevertheless, it should be remembered that a healthy lifestyle for such a dog is possible only with the right diet and regular physical activity, allowing you to keep the pet in excellent physical shape. Only daily active walks will provide not only a good sleep, but also longevity.
Important and timely vaccination that protects the pet from deadly pathologies.
Particular attention must be paid to the ears of the animal. Due to too tight fit to the skull, the auricle is poorly ventilated, and this can cause ear infections. The fur on the inside of the ear should be regularly shortened.
Kerry Blue is susceptible to certain diseases, which affect other breeds. These include:
- dislocation of the knee cup;
- hip dysplasia;
- plague;
- viral enteritis;
- chronic otitis media;
- cataract;
- leptospirosis;
- oncological tumors;
- hepatitis.
Natural food
The daily diet of the pet can be selected on the basis of a specialized ready-made feed or food prepared at home. With the right approach, both methods are good.
The positive aspect of this method is obvious - the owner is confident in the composition of the dish. By cons include the time spent on cooking, buying ingredients and selecting the composition, depending on the condition of the pet. When feeding natural dishes, it is necessary to competently draw up a balanced menu so as not to spoil the health of the pet.
Some recommendations will help:
- The dog breed Kerry Blue Terrier belongs to predators, so the lion's share of the diet is lean meats, such as turkey, veal, beef or white chicken breast. The average daily requirement of an urban adult is about 250 - 300 g of meat products. An active pet of a young age or an animal having problems with gaining body weight should receive up to 350 g of meat per day. The meat piece is scalded with boiling water or boiled for about 10 minutes.
- The source of fiber will be cereal (preferably buckwheat or rice), which must be thoroughly boiled. It should be remembered that the right portion is not porridge with the addition of meat, but a meat dish with the addition of cereals and vegetables.
- Vegetable components are also needed for meat, while it is advisable to exclude legumes and white cabbage. It is better to offer vegetables raw with the addition of a teaspoon of any vegetable oil - vitamins are properly absorbed.
- In addition to meat, cereals and vegetables, you need to add dairy products. Pure curd will be a good source of calcium, and not curd mass.
- After consulting with a veterinarian, you can choose mineral-vitamin complexes corresponding to the age of the pet to a natural diet.
Food
Ready-made feeds have such advantages: they save time, are convenient on trips, and the problematic beard of the Kerry Blue Terrier breed remains clean when eating dry snacks. Cons can occur with the daily consumption of low-quality products: allergic reactions, dull hair, dandruff and a violation of the gastrointestinal functions. Therefore, it is important to choose the right manufacturer and carefully study the composition in which meat products should prevail. In dry feeds there is insufficient moisture, which means that constant access to fresh water is necessary. It needs to be changed daily. 15 minutes before a meal, dry snacks can be soaked in hot water (approximately 70 ° C).
Nutritional Tips
The listed feeding methods are suitable for both Kerry Blue babies and adults. The only difference is the portion size and the number of feeds per day.
A baby aged 1.5–2 months is fed 4 times a day. 3-4 month old puppies should have 3 feedings. Individuals older than six months of age and adult animals are fed twice a day. There are a few helpful suggestions to consider:
- Do not salt the dish;
- do not feed in portions prepared for the human table;
- Do not treat with pastries and sweets;
- prevent the selection of any food for a walk;
- feed in the morning and evening at certain hours;
- monitor for clean water in a pet bowl.
Price
Species of breed, parental achievement, seller’s status, availability of documentation, urgency of sale, sex of the animal - all these factors affect the cost of a particular Kerry Blue Terrier puppy. The price ranges from 12,000 to 30,000 rubles. For 12,000 - 15,000 you can buy a pretty thoroughbred puppy from the kennel with all the documents. But for 20,000 - 30,000 rubles you can already buy a show-class kid whose parents have titles, letters and other achievements.
Reviews
Clever, loyal, cheerful pets, bringing a lot of positive - these are the words that the owners of the Kerry Blue Terrier breed write about their favorites. Reviews in most cases are only positive and enthusiastic. A lot of dog breeders note the four-legged friends' cockiness, although some argue that the four-legged friend acts like this in an attempt to protect the owner.
All owners say that Kerry Blue is loving to all members of the family, although some of them are sure that he becomes attached and yearns for only one owner.
According to reviews, pets love water, trying to save anyone floating. They don’t dwell in children, taking part in their fun outdoor games.
Some difficulties are caused by grooming, as the breed requires a lot of attention. Dog breeders note the time spent on putting wool and beard in order. The haircut is also complicated. It requires special training by the owner or visiting the master.