Officially named as the National Dog of Ireland, this breed from County Kerry in the south-west of Ireland is also known as the Irish Blue Terrier.  Its original function was to take to the water in the hunt for otters. The Kerry Blue displays an attractive pale grey coat with dark, almost black extremities. The puppies are born black and their color gradually fades until by the time they are one or two years old, the adult coloring has arrived. This is a versatile, hard-working farmer's dog, not only able to assist with vermin-control and hunting, but also a reliable house guard. It existed as a working dog for centuries before its striking appearance attracted the attention of the show world.
The Kerry Blue is an outgoing dog who demonstrates his feelings. He has humor, wit and a blazing temper, with great energy and endurance to match the temperament. Adapting easily to any climate, he is hardy, healthy and long-lived. He retains his liveliness at an age when most other dogs have showed down. He is not particularly friendly and can bite at times. Like most terriers he suffers from eczema during the summer.
Photo courtesy of Aran Kerry Blue Terriers
Kerry Blue Terrier Puppies
The Cairn Terrier belongs to terrier dog group. Most of the dogs in this group are relatively small in size, but, despite this, they are usually spirited and independent. Although many terriers were originally kept on farms, often as rat catchers, they have made a transition to household pets quite readily; to the extent that a number of them rank among the best-known breeds in the world. Their alert and curious nature, and their tendency to explore underground, means that they are more inclined to dig than other breeds, and they have an alarming tendency to disappear down rabbit holes when out for a walk. As a result, they are not true lapdogs, although they do make loyal companions. Terriers are usually lively, alert, and extremely plucky. They do not always get on well together, however, and enjoy every opportunity to run around on their own.
Here is a list of popular terrier dog breeds:
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