Trainability

This breed loves to work and please, making him prime candidate for a dog obedience partner. However, in saying this, he will require a good strong leader and isn’t suited to the first-time dog owner. This breed thrives on consistent training that is fun and light. Being an independent breed who is highly intelligent can spell disaster for those who do not understand how to handle a smart working breed. They need positive reinforcement and a loving yet sturdy hand. Being a strong athlete, they excel in many dog sports and simply love to flex their muscles. Like with all dogs, early socialisation is a must, as too training. Enrolling in your local puppy-preschool is a great way to start your socialisation off to a safe start. Many owners have stated possible inter-dog aggression issues with this breed, making socialisation incredibly important to ensure you active and happy dog will tolerate other dogs and grow into a well-rounded dog.

Grooming

Considered a low-shedding breed, the Kerry will typically require the assistance of a dog groomer to help with the trimming of this impressive coat. This might take a bit of research as most professional groomers may not have much experience with the Kerry coat. The coat will also need to be brushed daily to prevent uncomfortable matting and tangles. Frequent teeth cleaning and nail trimming are also recommended. It’s always advisable that you start getting your wee Kerry used to the grooming routine as quickly as possible to prevent any discomfort or fear when they are older.

Exercise Requirements

Being an energetic working breed this dog needs to move to stay fit, healthy and more importantly happy. They will need a good amount of exercise each day including a brisk on-leash morning walk, followed by an evening off-leash romp. This of course will depend on your dog’s level of training and socialisation. Remembering that in some instances these dogs do not get along well with other dogs, so ensuring you correctly socialise your pet is vital to help this possibility from occurring.

Intelligence

The Kerry Blue is also highly intelligent making him the perfect working dog. However, this intelligence can get dog owners into trouble if they do not consider the need to not only flex their dog’s muscles but also their brains. Consider clever boredom busting techniques when you are away from the home and always adequately exercise your dog before you leave for a few hours. This may include a good brisk walk or a 15-20min training session. These dogs excel in all forms of dog sports and will certainly turn heads with their abilities and also good looks.

Family Friendly

The Kerry Blue is also highly intelligent making him the perfect working dog. However, this intelligence can get dog owners into trouble if they do not consider the need to not only flex their dog’s muscles but also their brains. Consider clever boredom busting techniques when you are away from the home and always adequately exercise your dog before you leave for a few hours. This may include a good brisk walk or a 15-20min training session. These dogs excel in all forms of dog sports and will certainly turn heads with their abilities and also good looks.

Indoor/Outdoor

This breed will need backyard to stretch their legs and run around. Being a terrier, it is important to check fences regularly and even consider concreting under the fence to prevent digging. You will need to enrich your pet’s area to avoid boredom or your precious pup may find some wonderful entertainment in the form of digging, barking or escaping. Like with all dogs, the Kerry is a companion animal and should be invited inside to be a part of the home environment. Leaving any dog for endless hours alone in a backyard is not recommended. Always ensure you have ample water and weatherproof areas for your pet.

Breeding

It is very important to only source your new family member from a reputable breeding establishment, to ensure your puppy is healthy. Ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and ask to see mum and dad. Contact your local breed club and research your chosen breeder. Your breeder should have proof that they regularly test their dogs for genetic diseases and to ensure that the dogs they are breeding from have sound temperaments. It may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family from unimaginable heartache and pain dealing with a sick puppy.