Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is described by the AKC as alert, smart, people-oriented, a member of the Terrier Group, originally from Ireland.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 18-19.5 inches (male), 17.5-19 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 33-40 pounds (male), females weigh proportionately less than males [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Alert / Smart / People-Oriented [1] |
| AKC group | Terrier Group [1] |
| Origin | Ireland [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 155 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Kerries have two speeds: They enjoy getting exercise through outdoor play, playing fetch, or jogging alongside their owner. They also love one-on-one time sitting by their owner as the family watches TV or sits around the fireplace. Most Kerries essentially want to be with their owners, engaging in whatever the activity is at the time. [1]
Grooming
Kerries do not shed, so their coat must be thoroughly brushed and combed once a week to avoid matting. Combined with regular brushing, a full grooming every six to eight weeks will keep the coat manageable. The head, neck, ears, and abdomen are done with clippers, but the coat is trimmed with scissors. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Kerries are a healthy breed. Responsible breeders are constantly monitoring new tools, including new DNA tests, that are available to help ensure the absence of hereditary defects in their breeding programs. Ask your dog's breeder for his or her recommendations about health testing. Many breeders do basic DNA testing as a best practice, and will make you aware of test results. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Kerry Blue Terrier in 1922. [1]
- It ranked No. 155 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 124 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Kerry.” [1]
- The AKC lists Ireland as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 4/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 1/5)
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
Common questions
How long do Kerry Blue Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Kerry Blue Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 18-19.5 inches (male), 17.5-19 inches (female) and weight 33-40 pounds (male), females weigh proportionately less than males.
How much are vet bills for a Kerry Blue Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Kerry Blue Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.