Kerry Blue Terrier Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a versatile Irish working terrier from County Kerry, bred as an all-purpose farm dog to hunt vermin, herd stock, guard the home, and retrieve. Its most famous feature is a soft, dense, non-shedding coat that is born black and gradually clears to a distinctive blue-grey by adulthood. Spirited, intelligent, and self-assured, it is deeply loyal and affectionate with its family, alert as a watchdog, and often assertive with other dogs. Athletic and quick-witted, it excels at training and sports but needs an experienced owner, early socialization, regular grooming, and consistent leadership to channel its bold, energetic terrier temperament.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Low-shedding coat that suits many allergy-sensitive households
- Intelligent, versatile, and highly trainable
- Devoted, protective, and affectionate family companion
Things to consider
- Coat needs regular professional grooming and trimming
- Assertive with other dogs and has a strong prey drive
- Strong-willed terrier that needs experienced, consistent handling
History
The Kerry Blue Terrier originated in the mountains of County Kerry, Ireland, as a working farm and hunting dog, with legend tying it to a blue dog that swam ashore from a shipwreck. It became a symbol of Irish national pride in the early 20th century and was one of the breeds behind the founding of the Irish Kennel Club. The AKC recognized the Kerry Blue Terrier in 1922.
Temperament
Kerry Blue Terriers are spirited, confident, and intelligent, deeply devoted to their families and alert as watchdogs. They are bold and can be assertive or scrappy with other dogs and have a strong prey drive. They are trainable but strong-willed, needing consistent, positive training and thorough socialization.
Questions to ask a Kerry Blue Terrier breeder
- How are the parents with other dogs and small pets?
- Have the breeding dogs been screened for eye conditions, hips, and hereditary issues?
- What socialization and grooming acclimation has the litter had?
Health considerations to discuss
Progressive neuronal abiotrophy / cerebellar issues. Rare hereditary neurological conditions; ask about family history.
Hip dysplasia. Request hip evaluation results for the parents.
Eye conditions. Ask about screening for cataracts and other hereditary eye problems.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: American Kennel Club · The Kennel Club (UK) — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Kerry Blue Terrier litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Kerry Blue Terrier puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Kerry Blue Terrier listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Kerry Blue Terrier breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.