Kerry Blue Terrier: the nature and complexity of keeping, illness and care

2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21

One of the oldest dog breeds that originated 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

Browsing through dog breeds with photos, it's impossible to miss the Kerry Blue. Among all, he stands out for his unusual appearance and blue beautiful coat, which is the result of the selection work of scientists over the years, aimed at improving this type of terrier.

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 comes from Ireland (County Kerry). The breed is over 150 years old. The first reliable description of it appeared in 1847.

This breed waspresented at the first exhibition in 1913, and in 1924 the Dublin club breeding blue terriers was registered. The Irish people have made this breed a symbol of the country's independence along with the shamrock. By 1925, there were already four breed clubs in Ireland, which organized exhibitions and tests of the working qualities of blue terriers. Such vigorous activity interested dog breeders of other countries. The animals have been exported to Canada, the United States and some European countries.

At an exhibition held in 1928, the Kerry Blue Terrier received the title of "Almost Perfect Dog". The dog became the third breed that was officially recognized by the still young International Cynological Federation (ICF).

Temperament

The Blue Terrier is a cheerful and intelligent dog. She is a devoted friend and faithful companion for life. Description of dog breeds, compiled by experts, highlights the following features of this pet:

• high performance;
• instant reaction;
• curiosity;
• ruthless attitude towards the violator;
• natural instinct for negative and positive motives;
• mobility.

Despite the fact that this four-legged friend has taken 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 - she is a born hunter who must spend a lot of time in active physical exertion.

The curiosity, natural intelligence and cheerfulness of Kerry Blue directs him to a permanentlearning new skills and knowledge. He cannot be assiduous, as he is always drawn to gaining new knowledge. These traits make the pet highly trainable. Conscientious fulfillment of goals, leadership, attempts to prove oneself and please the owner are typical behavior for the Kerry Blue Terrier breed. Photos of these four-legged friends fully convey their character. Ears pointing forward emphasize the lively and interested expression of the muzzle. The attentive and penetrating look of dark eyes betrays the mind and natural instinct.

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 bounds, but he is wary of strangers. 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 FCI classification, the Kerry Blue belongs to the standard No. 3 section No. 1 (medium-sized dogs) and 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 predilection 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 also divided into animals bred in Scottish, English and Irish territory. Dog breeds whose names have the word"terrier" are represented by many beautiful pets. The most striking, unusual and eye-catching of them rightfully is Kerry Blue.

Application of breed

The explosive and bold nature of Kerry Blue dogs makes them excellent guard dogs.

They will faithfully guard the object entrusted to them and will not be afraid to engage in battle even with an opponent larger than themselves. This breed will be a great friend for the hunter. It can be used to find small predators and rabbits. The Blue Terrier is an excellent swimmer, so in ancient times it was used to catch otters. In addition, this pet is an excellent rat catcher.

The dog is very smart and loyal to the owner, so it becomes an excellent companion for life.

External standards

Height at the withers is approximately 45-49 cm (18-19 inches) for males and 45-48 cm (17-18 inches) for females. The average weight ranges from 15-18 kg. The description of dog breeds compiled by the FCI highlights the following standard external indicators:

• powerful and large head, covered with abundant wool, with a slight transition from forehead to muzzle;
• ears shaped like an isosceles triangle;
• the eyes of dark shades have an expression of some alertness;
• nose with large and wide nostrils;
• gums and palate in dark shades;
• powerful jaws have developed muscles and are able to provide a strong grip;
• short croup;
• strong bones with a dryish constitution, muscles in the shoulder blades, deep chestcage and flat back;
• high set thin tail held upright;
• straight limbs with well-developed muscles;
• wool is wavy and thick, soft to the touch;
• any blue color is possible, as well as dyeing the tips of the wool in black tones (up to a year and a half, black or brown-red color of the coat is allowed).

Looking at the dog breeds from the photo, you can see that the Kerry Blue compares favorably in appearance. Gorgeous shiny coat of an unusual shade, proud posture and proportional build distinguish him from his brothers with a truly aristocratic look.

Puppies

Baby Blue Terriers have black fur, which will become bluish by the age of 2-3 years. The first hairstyle is done after the change of teeth. It is in the first year that the foundation of a pet's he alth is laid, so care, walks, proper feeding and adequate education are important during this period.

It should be remembered that Kerry Blue Terrier puppies are rather fragile individuals with weak muscular system and ligaments. It is important not to lift them unnecessarily, not to allow anyone to drag, press or pull the tail. If you want to take the baby in your arms, then lift it under the breast and buttock with both hands at the same time. Cannot be taken under the tummy!

The place to sleep should be soft, spacious and away from the heating system and drafts. In rooms visited by small inhabitants, it is necessary to remove all dangerous or valuable items to an inaccessible place.things: small items, wires, appliances, hanging curtains, tablecloths, etc.

Special molded rubber or latex toys found at every pet supply store are a must. They help to avoid damage to things, develop a pet and relieve him of boredom. You can use children's toys made of elastic plastic or rubber, as well as sticks made of solid wood.

Until the age of three months, unpleasant heaps 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 a few trays, diapers or a pile of newspapers and teach your pet to defecate in the right place.

After three months, you can start walking with moderate physical activity. As the baby grows, the duration of walks gradually increases. If you take your puppy outside 4-6 times a day from three to four months, he will quickly get used to defecate outside the house.

Possible difficulties

Sociability, intelligence and intelligence are in the blood of the Kerry Blue Terrier breed. The character, however, also has a negative trait - cockiness. 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 has a natural aggressiveness towards other animals, including dogs.

Experts say that this behavior is manifested only in case of improper upbringing of a four-legged friend or his late socialization. That's whyso useful are long walks in the company of brethren. This shortcoming can be corrected by starting to raise a pet as early as possible. However, it should be noted that the dog has a bright personality and unique temperament, so the severity of education should be moderate, and it is better to exclude pressure on the pet.

The next challenge may be the labor-intensive care and trimming of the Kerry Blue coat, which requires skill or professional help.

Education

Already from 3-4 months during the walk, you can start educational activities and teach the puppy training skills. The Kerry Blue Terrier is prone to pugnacity due to the properties of its 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 your ward. The Blue Terrier absolutely cannot stand any pressure or rudeness in his address, but you can negotiate 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 requirement. This breed is very smart by nature and lends itself well to training skills, so you can easily find contact with it. Kerry blue can make an excellent athlete, thanks to his good memory and the presence of drive and passion, laid down genetically.

Education should be consistent and in moderationstrict. Particular attention should be paid to aggression towards other animals, stopping and not encouraging it initially. In order to help socialize and avoid future behavior problems, you need to find suitable walking companions as early as possible. You should know that this breed does not belong to pets and will suit the owner who has enough time and desire to walk, care for and raise his four-legged friend.

How to take care of the coat?

Chic coat of bluish shades is one of the main advantages that the Kerry Blue Terrier can be proud of. The description of the breed emphasizes that the coat is wavy, thick, silk-like. In addition, she does not have an unpleasant “doggy” smell and shedding.

Before you start the trimming process, you need to prepare your pet. It must be thoroughly combed, and then washed and dried. The dog is combed against the coat. During the haircut, you need to force the animal to take the correct posture, as in the exhibition.

Kerry Blue Terrier haircut requires a certain skill, knowledge of the anatomy of the breed and its standards. Professionally performed cutting work will not only hide some shortcomings in the constitution of the animal, but also emphasize the dignity of its figure. A trimmed dog should not look like he just stepped out of a barbershop. The transitions between parts of his body should be done smoothly, naturally and beautifully.

It is better to trim your pet 2-5 weeks before the show, countingso that by the desired day the length of the hair on the back was about 3-5 cm.

For home care of the coat of a four-legged friend, you will need a natural bristle brush, a metal comb with rare teeth and a special brush with curved metal teeth. If the owner wants to cut his pet himself, then he will also need to purchase sharp, high-quality scissors and a clipper.

You need to comb your four-legged friend carefully, at least three times a week, otherwise the coat will become unkempt and tangles will form in it. It is better to do a haircut at least once every three months or as the coat grows.

Care

Grooming activities involve more than regular trimming and combing the Kerry Blue Terrier breed. Photos of pets confirm that they have a long beard and fur on the muzzle, which also require constant attention. It is better to collect wool with an elastic band, otherwise the beard will seem unkempt and dirty from food. Most often it is washed after each feeding. In addition, the hairs, getting into the eyes, can cause their suppuration. Overgrown hair can be shortened a little with scissors.

Kerry blue needs other systematic procedures. Remember to clean your pet's eyes. 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 trimmed monthly. Plaque removal should also be included in the list of regular activities. This must be done at least onceevery three weeks to avoid stones.

Possible diseases

The Kerry Blue Terrier breed is distinguished by fairly good he alth and a strong immune system. These dogs are not prone to any disease. Nevertheless, it should be remembered that a he althy lifestyle for such a dog is possible only with the right diet and regular physical activity, which allows you to keep your pet in excellent physical shape. Only daily active walks will ensure not only sound sleep, but also longevity.

Vaccination is important and timely, protecting the pet from deadly pathologies.

Special 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 trimmed regularly.

Kerry Blue is prone to certain diseases that other breeds suffer from. These include:

• dislocation of the kneecap;
• hip dysplasia;
• plague;
• viral enteritis;
• chronic otitis media;
• cataract;
• leptospirosis;
• oncological tumors;
• hepatitis.

Feeding natural food

Your pet's daily diet can be based on specialized prepared food or home-cooked food. With the right approach, both ways are good.

The positive aspect of this method is obvious - the owner is confident in the composition of the dish. The disadvantages include the time spent on cooking, buyingingredients and selection of composition depending on the condition of the pet. When feeding with natural dishes, it is necessary to correctly compose a balanced menu so as not to spoil the pet's he alth.

A few suggestions will help:

1. The Kerry Blue Terrier dog breed is a carnivore, 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 young pet or an animal that has problems with weight gain should receive up to 350 g of meat per day. The meat piece is scalded with boiling water or boiled for about 10 minutes.
2. Porridges (preferably buckwheat or rice) will become a source of fiber, which must be thoroughly boiled. It should be remembered that the correct portion is not porridge with meat, but a meat dish with the addition of cereals and vegetables.
3. Meat also needs vegetable components, while it is desirable to exclude legumes and white cabbage. It is better to offer vegetables raw with the addition of a teaspoon of any vegetable oil - this is how vitamins are properly absorbed.
4. In addition to meat, cereals and vegetables, you need to add fermented milk products. Pure cottage cheese is a good source of calcium, not cottage cheese.
5. After consulting with a veterinarian, you can choose mineral-vitamin complexes that correspond to the age of the pet for a natural diet.

Feeding

Ready feeds havesuch pluses: 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 appear with the daily consumption of low-quality products: allergic reactions, dull hair, dandruff and impaired gastrointestinal functions. Therefore, it is important to choose the right manufacturer and carefully study the composition, which should be dominated by meat products. Dry food lacks moisture, which means constant access to fresh water is essential. It needs to be changed daily. Dry snacks can be soaked in hot water 15 minutes before eating (approximately 70 oC).

Useful nutrition tips

The above feeding methods are suitable for both Kerry Blue babies and adults. The only difference is the serving size and the number of feedings 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 tips to keep in mind:

• do not add s alt to the dish;
• do not feed portions prepared for the human table;
• do not treat with pastries and sweets;
• stop picking up any food while walking;
• feed morning and evening at certain hours;
• keep clean water in your pet's bowl.

Price

Breed traits, parental achievements, status of the seller, availability of documentation, urgency of the sale, sex of the animal - all these factors affect the costa specific puppy of the Kerry Blue Terrier breed. The price fluctuates between 12,000 - 30,000 rubles. For 12,000 - 15,000 you can buy a pretty thoroughbred puppy from a kennel with all the documents. But for 20,000 - 30,000 rubles, you can already buy a show-class baby whose parents have titles, certificates and other achievements.

Reviews

Smart, loyal, cheerful pets, bringing a lot of positive - these are the words the owners of the Kerry Blue Terrier breed write about their pets. Reviews in most cases are only positive and enthusiastic. A lot of dog owners note the cockiness of four-legged friends, although some argue that the four-legged friend acts this way, trying to protect the owner.

All owners say that Kerry Blue treats all family members with love, although some of them are sure that he becomes attached and yearns for only one owner.

According to reviews, pets love the water, trying to save any swimmer. They love children, taking part in their fun outdoor games.

Some difficulty is the care, as the breed requires a lot of attention. Dog breeders also note the time spent on putting the coat and beard in order. The haircut is also difficult. It requires special training of the owner or a visit to the master.