Breed facts
| FCI group | Group 3: Terriers |
| Origin | Ireland |
| Weight | 15–18 kg |
| Height | 44–50 cm |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years |
Temperament
Energetic, intelligent and protective, with a strong character.
History
An Irish terrier from County Kerry, used for hunting and guarding flocks.
Fun facts
Puppies are born black and the coat takes on its blue shade over time.
The Kerry Blue Terrier coat
A curly or wavy coat that sheds little but tangles and mats if not brushed.
A soft, wavy coat that does not shed but never stops growing: it needs regular brushing and cutting, and the beard attention.
What we do in the salon
We bathe, dry and brush thoroughly, then do a clipper-and-scissor trim or a scissor-only cut, as you prefer (breed clip or practical).
Recommended services
- Bathabout 1 h
- Clipper & scissor trimabout 2 h
- Scissor cutabout 2 h
How often?
| Bath | every 3 to 4 weeks |
| Cut / upkeep | A cut every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the style. |
Care at home between visits
- Brush thoroughly 2 to 3 times a week, down to the skin, not just the surface.
- Check behind the ears, armpits and paws, where the coat mats fastest.
- Wipe around the eyes with a damp cloth to prevent staining.
- Don't put off the cut: a badly matted coat may need a short clip.
Frequently asked questions about the Kerry Blue Terrier
Does the Kerry Blue Terrier shed a lot?
It sheds little. Even so, the coat can tangle or build up, so it should be brushed regularly.
How often should I bring my Kerry Blue Terrier to the salon?
In general, a bath every 3 to 4 weeks. A cut every 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the style. It depends on the coat, the cut you like and the condition of the coat: we will advise you at the first visit.
How long do a bath and a clip take?
When you book online, 1 hour is reserved for a bath and 2 hours for a clip, scissor cut or hand stripping. Very dense coats or large breeds may need more time: talk to us.
Can I keep the coat long?
Yes, but it needs deep, regular brushing. If the coat starts to mat, a shorter cut is best so the skin is not hurt.
Weight and height values are approximate and vary from dog to dog. Based on FCI standards and public breed profiles; care text: DogsClub. Last updated: October 2026.