Breeding Kerry Blue Terriers

Complete Guide for Responsible Breeders

Breeding Kerry Blue Terriers demands a deep understanding of the breed's distinctive progressive graying coat genetics, hereditary health challenges including bleeding disorders and cerebellar disease, and unique Irish terrier temperament. This comprehensive guide provides data-backed breeding protocols, health testing requirements, and economic analysis specifically for Kerry Blue Terrier breeders committed to producing sound, typey puppies that honor Ireland's national terrier.

Breed Overview

The Kerry Blue Terrier originated in County Kerry, Ireland in the 1700s, where it was developed as a versatile farm dog capable of hunting vermin, herding livestock, and guarding property. Known as the national terrier of Ireland, the breed's distinctive blue coat and spirited personality made it a treasured companion of Irish farmers and sportsmen. The Kerry Blue gained international recognition in the early 20th century and was accepted by the AKC in 1924.

The Kerry Blue Terrier was originally bred as a multi-purpose farm dog for vermin control, bird and small game hunting, livestock herding, and property guarding. This working heritage shaped the breed's versatile temperament, moderate size, and weather-resistant coat.

Currently ranked 135th in AKC popularity, the Kerry Blue Terrier has experienced an increasing registration trend in recent years, suggesting growing appreciation for this versatile and distinctive terrier breed among dedicated fanciers. The breed's moderate size, non-shedding coat, and adaptable temperament appeal to breeders seeking a challenging but rewarding terrier project.

The breed is supported by the United States Kerry Blue Terrier Club (USKBTC), which provides extensive breeder education, health resources, and mentorship programs at uskbtc.com.

Breed Standard Summary for Breeders

When selecting breeding stock, Kerry Blue Terrier breeders must prioritize specific structural and temperamental qualities outlined in the AKC standard. The Kerry Blue Terrier is a compact, powerful, and well-proportioned terrier with a distinctive soft, wavy blue coat. The breed combines substance with elegance, displaying a keen, alert expression and a characteristic terrier attitude.

Size specifications:

• Males: 18–19.5 inches tall, 33–40 pounds
• Females: 17.5–19 inches tall, 30–37 pounds

Critical breeding priorities:

1. Correct blue coat color and texture: The signature soft, wavy coat (neither harsh nor woolly) is paramount. Puppies are born black and gradually clear to blue by 18 months.
2. Proper terrier head type with keen expression: Strong muzzle, dark eyes, and alert carriage define breed type.
3. Balanced proportions and square outline: The Kerry should appear compact and well-knit, not rangy or coarse.
4. Sound movement with good reach and drive: Efficient, effortless gait reflecting working heritage.
5. Stable, game temperament without aggression: Confident and spirited but not human-aggressive.

Disqualifications affecting breeding decisions:

• Solid black coat after 18 months of age (failure to clear to blue)
• Dewclaws on hind legs

Serious faults to select against:

• Coat texture too soft (silky) or too harsh (wiry)
• Any color other than shades of blue at maturity
• Snippy or weak muzzle
• Light or yellow eyes
• Out at elbows or cow hocks
• Excessive shyness or aggression toward people

Breeders should prioritize health clearances alongside structural soundness, as several serious hereditary conditions affect the breed.

Reproductive Profile

Kerry Blue Terriers typically produce smaller litters compared to many terrier breeds, with an average litter size of 4 puppies and a typical range of 1–7 puppies. This smaller litter size requires careful breeding planning and realistic economic expectations, as the fixed costs of health testing and prenatal care are distributed across fewer puppies.

The C-section rate in Kerry Blue Terriers is approximately 12%, which is low compared to brachycephalic breeds but still warrants monitoring during whelping. Natural whelping is the norm for the breed, though first-time mothers may benefit from experienced breeder supervision. Smaller litter sizes may occasionally result in larger individual puppies, potentially complicating delivery.

Fertility considerations:

• Smaller litter sizes compared to breeds like the Border Terrier or Cairn Terrier
• Some lines may experience occasional breeding difficulties
• Bitches should be in optimal body condition (not overweight or underweight) for breeding
• Natural breeding is preferred, but artificial insemination is commonly used for distance breeding

Artificial insemination suitability: Natural breeding is preferred, but fresh chilled AI is commonly used for distance breeding. Frozen semen is successful with proper timing using progesterone testing and veterinary oversight.

Breeding Age and Timeline

Responsible Kerry Blue Terrier breeding requires adherence to specific age and testing milestones to ensure both parents are physically mature and health-cleared before producing puppies.

Female reproductive timeline:

• First heat: Typically occurs at 8–12 months of age
• Recommended first breeding age: 24 months (2 years), after completion of all health testing including OFA hip evaluation
• Retirement age: 6–8 years or after 5 litters, whichever comes first
• Maximum recommended litters: 5 lifetime litters per female

Male reproductive timeline:

• Recommended first breeding age: 24 months, after OFA hip clearance at minimum testing age
• Stud career: Can continue into senior years if health and fertility remain sound

Health testing timeline:

The OFA requires hip evaluations at a minimum age of 24 months for final certification. This timing should guide your breeding timeline, as responsible Kerry Blue Terrier breeders do not breed dogs without complete health clearances.

Complete breeding timeline from health testing through puppy placement:

1. 18–24 months: Complete all health testing (hips, eyes, DNA tests for bleeding disorders)
2. 24 months: Earliest recommended breeding age once all testing is complete
3. Pre-breeding: Progesterone testing beginning 5–7 days after standing heat to time optimal breeding window
4. Day 0: Breeding (natural or AI)
5. Day 28–30: Ultrasound pregnancy confirmation
6. Day 45: Radiograph for puppy count
7. Day 58–63: Whelping period
8. Week 8–10: Puppies go to approved homes

The Kerry Blue Terrier's moderate size and 24-month OFA testing age mean breeders should plan for a first litter at approximately 2 years of age.

Required Health Testing

Responsible breeding of Kerry Blue Terriers requires comprehensive health testing to screen for hereditary conditions documented in the breed. The CHIC (Canine Health Information Center) program establishes minimum testing requirements for breed-specific health clearances.

CHIC-required health tests:

Hip Evaluation (OFA):

• Screens for: Hip dysplasia (malformation of the hip joint)
• Method: Radiographic evaluation by OFA at 24 months minimum
• Cost: $200
• Frequency: One-time (permanent certification)

Eye Examination (CERF/OFA):

• Screens for: Hereditary eye diseases including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), entropion, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye)
• Method: Board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist examination
• Cost: $70
• Frequency: Annual (yearly re-examination required)

Total CHIC-required testing cost per dog: $270 initial, plus $70 annually for eye certification

Strongly recommended additional tests:

Beyond CHIC minimum requirements, serious Kerry Blue Terrier breeders invest in DNA testing for breed-specific bleeding disorders and other documented conditions:

Factor XI Deficiency DNA Test:

• Screens for: Bleeding disorder (coagulation factor XI deficiency)
• Cost: $75
• Importance: Moderate prevalence in breed; critical for breeding decisions

von Willebrand Disease DNA Test:

• Screens for: Bleeding disorder (von Willebrand factor deficiency)
• Cost: $70
• Importance: Moderate prevalence; can cause serious surgical bleeding

Degenerative Myelopathy DNA Test:

• Screens for: Progressive spinal cord disease (SOD1 gene mutation)
• Cost: $75
• Importance: Documented in breed; late-onset but devastating condition

Cardiac Evaluation:

• Screens for: Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and other congenital heart defects
• Cost: $150
• Importance: PDA is relatively common in Kerry Blue Terriers compared to other breeds

Total estimated health testing cost per breeding dog: $640 (includes CHIC requirements plus recommended DNA and cardiac screening)

Where to obtain testing:

• OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals): ofa.org for hip, eye, and cardiac registry
• DNA testing: Embark, Paw Print Genetics, or Optigen
• Eye exams: ACVO diplomate (board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist)
• Cardiac: Board-certified veterinary cardiologist

Hereditary Health Conditions

Kerry Blue Terriers are affected by several documented hereditary conditions that responsible breeders must understand and screen for. Genetic testing, clinical screening, and pedigree analysis guide breeding decisions to reduce disease prevalence.

Progressive Neuronal Abiotrophy (Cerebellar Abiotrophy)

Prevalence: Rare but significant in breed history

Inheritance mode: Autosomal recessive

DNA test available: No (diagnosis is clinical and neurological)

Clinical signs: Progressive cerebellar dysfunction causing head tremor, pelvic limb stiffness, severe incoordination, and exaggerated limb movements while maintaining normal appetite and disposition. This devastating neurological disease appears in young puppies.

Age of onset: 9–16 weeks

Breeding impact: Because no DNA test exists, breeders must rely on pedigree analysis and avoiding lines with known affected dogs. This condition has been reduced through careful selection but remains a concern.

Factor XI Deficiency

Prevalence: Moderate; recognized regularly in the breed

Inheritance mode: Autosomal (homozygous and possibly heterozygous affected)

DNA test available: Yes

Clinical signs: Excessive bleeding tendency, prolonged bleeding after surgery or trauma, spontaneous bleeding episodes. Severity varies but can be life-threatening during surgical procedures.

Age of onset: Present from birth; clinical signs variable

Breeding impact: DNA testing enables identification of carriers. Breeding carrier to clear reduces risk, but carrier-to-carrier breedings should be avoided to prevent producing affected puppies.

von Willebrand Disease Type I

Prevalence: Moderate

Inheritance mode: Autosomal recessive with incomplete penetrance

DNA test available: Yes

Clinical signs: Deficiency of von Willebrand clotting protein causing prolonged bleeding, nosebleeds, excessive bleeding during heat cycles or after surgery.

Age of onset: Present from birth; severity variable

Breeding impact: Similar to Factor XI, DNA testing enables informed breeding decisions. Some carriers show mild clinical signs.

Hip Dysplasia

Prevalence: Moderate (OFA data shows approximately 10% dysplastic in breed evaluation)

Inheritance mode: Polygenic (multiple genes plus environmental factors)

DNA test available: No (radiographic evaluation required)

Clinical signs: Malformation of hip joint causing pain, lameness, difficulty rising, reluctance to exercise, and eventual arthritis.

Age of onset: 6 months to 2 years for symptoms; progressive with age

Breeding impact: OFA hip evaluation is CHIC-required. Breed only dogs with OFA Good, Fair, or Excellent ratings.

Degenerative Myelopathy

Prevalence: Moderate; breed has known association

Inheritance mode: Autosomal recessive (SOD1 gene mutation)

DNA test available: Yes

Clinical signs: Progressive spinal cord disease causing hind limb weakness, incoordination, eventually paralysis. Resembles ALS in humans. Quality of life severely affected in later stages.

Age of onset: 8 years or older

Breeding impact: Testing identifies carriers. Though late-onset, the devastating nature of this condition warrants breeding carrier to clear to avoid producing affected dogs.

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)

Prevalence: Relatively common compared to other breeds

Inheritance mode: Suspected polygenic

DNA test available: No (cardiac auscultation and echocardiography required)

Clinical signs: Congenital heart defect where fetal blood vessel fails to close after birth. Causes heart murmur, exercise intolerance, heart failure if untreated. Surgical correction possible in many cases.

Age of onset: Present at birth; detected during puppyhood cardiac auscultation

Breeding impact: Cardiac evaluation by a veterinary cardiologist is strongly recommended before breeding. Dogs with PDA should not be bred.

Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye)

Prevalence: Moderate

Inheritance mode: Suspected immune-mediated with familial tendency

DNA test available: No (clinical diagnosis via Schirmer tear test)

Clinical signs: Insufficient tear production causing eye irritation, thick discharge, corneal damage, and potential vision loss. Lifelong medical management required.

Age of onset: Middle-aged to older dogs, typically 4–7 years

Breeding impact: Annual eye examinations screen for early signs. Avoid breeding affected dogs or close relatives.

Entropion

Prevalence: Moderate

Inheritance mode: Polygenic

DNA test available: No (clinical diagnosis)

Clinical signs: Inward rolling of eyelid causing corneal irritation, squinting, tearing, and potential corneal ulceration. Surgical correction usually required.

Age of onset: Puppyhood to young adult

Breeding impact: Annual eye examinations detect this structural defect. Affected dogs should not be bred.

Color and Coat Genetics

The Kerry Blue Terrier's distinctive progressive graying coat is one of the breed's defining characteristics and a critical breeding consideration. Understanding the genetic mechanisms behind the blue color and proper coat texture is essential for producing true-to-type puppies.

AKC-accepted colors:

• Any shade of blue from deep slate to light silver-blue
• Puppies are born black and gradually clear to blue by 18 months of age

The progressive graying process: Kerry Blue puppies are born solid black. Over the first 18 months of life, the coat progressively lightens (clears) to the characteristic blue shade. This color change is controlled by the progressive graying gene and is one of the breed's most distinctive features.

Disqualifying colors:

• Solid black coat after 18 months of age (failure to clear to blue)
• Any color other than blue shades at maturity

Relevant genetic loci:

A Locus (Agouti):

• Kerry Blue Terriers carry the AA genotype, producing a solid black base coat at birth.

G Locus (Progressive Graying):

• The dominant G allele causes the gradual lightening from black to blue over the first 18 months.
• This is the same genetic mechanism seen in breeds like the Bedlington Terrier and Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier (though Wheatens have a different base color).

C Locus (Color intensity):

• The c/ch allele affects the final shade intensity, determining whether a dog clears to deep slate blue or light silver-blue.

Coat texture genetics: Beyond color, coat texture is equally critical. The Kerry Blue Terrier standard calls for a soft, wavy coat. Texture too soft (silky) or too harsh (wiry) is a serious fault. Texture is influenced by multiple genes and should be carefully evaluated in breeding stock.

Health-linked color concerns: Unlike some breeds with merle or dilution genes, the Kerry Blue Terrier's blue color is not associated with specific health problems. The progressive graying gene does not carry health risks.

DNA color testing availability: Commercial DNA tests can identify the progressive graying allele (G locus), though phenotypic evaluation (observing the actual coat) remains the gold standard for breeders.

Breeding color predictions:

• All Kerry Blue Terrier to Kerry Blue Terrier breedings produce blue puppies (born black, clearing to blue).
• There are no hidden color variations in purebred Kerries due to the breed's homozygous color genetics.
• Shade variation (slate vs. silver) occurs within litters based on modifier genes.

Complexity tier: Medium. While the color inheritance is straightforward (all puppies will be blue), the texture evaluation and understanding the clearing process require breeder experience.

Selecting Breeding Stock

Selecting breeding-quality Kerry Blue Terriers requires evaluation of conformation, temperament, health clearances, and pedigree to produce puppies that exemplify breed type and soundness.

Conformation priorities for breeding stock:

1. Correct terrier head with strong muzzle and keen expression: The head defines breed type. Avoid snippy muzzles, light eyes, or lack of typical terrier expression.
2. Proper coat texture (soft and wavy, not harsh or woolly): Coat texture is heavily genetic. Breed only dogs with correct texture to avoid producing offspring with silky or wire coats.
3. Balanced, compact, square proportions: The Kerry should appear well-knit and proportionate, not rangy or leggy.
4. Sound movement with good reach and drive: Efficient gait reflects proper structure and angulation.
5. Proper blue coat color at maturity: Dogs that fail to clear to blue by 18 months are disqualified and should not be bred.
6. Typical terrier temperament without excessive aggression: Confident, alert, game, but not human-aggressive.

Common structural faults to select against:

• Coat too soft, silky, or too harsh and wiry
• Light or yellow eyes (dark eyes are essential)
• Weak or snippy muzzle
• Poor front assembly with out-at-elbows
• Cow hocks or poor rear angulation
• Coat failing to clear to blue by 18 months
• Excessive shyness or human aggression

Temperament evaluation: Assess for confident, alert, game terrier temperament that is neither shy nor overly aggressive toward people. Kerry Blue Terriers should show willingness to work, trainability, and stable temperament in various situations. Dog aggression is typical of terrier breeds, but human aggression is highly undesirable and should be selected against.

Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) targets:

• Average COI in the breed: 13.2%
• Target COI for breedings: Under 6.25% (equivalent to half-sibling or less)

Kerry Blue Terriers have a moderately elevated average COI, indicating some population bottlenecks. Breeders should use pedigree analysis tools and aim for breedings under 6.25% to maintain genetic diversity and reduce the risk of amplifying recessive genetic diseases.

Stud selection criteria:

• Complete health clearances (hips, eyes, DNA tests for bleeding disorders)
• Proven producer of quality puppies with correct coat and temperament
• Complements the bitch's strengths and weaknesses structurally
• Unrelated or minimally related (low COI)
• Temperamentally sound with no history of aggression toward people

Stud fee range: $500–$1,200 depending on the dog's show record, health clearances, and proven production record. Top-producing champions command higher fees.

Show vs. breeding quality distinctions: Not all show dogs make good breeding stock, and not all breeding stock competes successfully. Prioritize health clearances, correct coat texture, sound temperament, and proven production over show wins alone. A breeder-quality dog may lack the precise balance for top show wins but possess excellent health, temperament, and structure that reliably produces quality puppies.

Whelping and Neonatal Care

Kerry Blue Terriers typically whelp naturally, but breeders must be prepared for potential complications given the breed's moderate size and occasionally smaller litter sizes.

Recommended whelping method: Natural whelping is standard for Kerry Blue Terriers, with a C-section rate of approximately 12%. This is low compared to brachycephalic breeds but still warrants vigilant monitoring during labor.

Breed-specific whelping complications:

• Small litter sizes may result in larger individual puppies, potentially complicating whelping
• First-time mothers may need experienced breeder supervision
• Monitor for signs of dystocia (prolonged labor, unproductive straining) given moderate breed size

Expected birth weights:

• Male puppies: 9–10 ounces
• Female puppies: 8–9 ounces

Daily weight gain targets: Puppies should gain 5–10% of their birth weight daily, approximately 0.5–1 ounce per day in the first two weeks. Weigh puppies daily to ensure adequate milk intake and identify fading puppies early.

Fading puppy syndrome risk: Monitor closely for failure to nurse, weak cry, or weight loss. Supplemental feeding may be necessary for smaller puppies in litters with significant size variation.

Neonatal care protocols:

• Maintain whelping box temperature at 85–90°F for the first week, gradually reducing to 75°F by week four
• Ensure all puppies nurse within 2 hours of birth to receive colostrum
• Monitor for signs of hypoglycemia (weakness, trembling, cold) in smaller puppies
• Dewclaws: Front dewclaws remain (breed standard). Hind dewclaws are a disqualification and must be removed if present (rare).

Tail docking, ear cropping, and dewclaw practices:

• Dewclaw removal: Hind dewclaws (if present) are a disqualification and should be removed by 3–5 days of age by a veterinarian. Front dewclaws remain.
• Tail docking: Not practiced in Kerry Blue Terriers (natural tail)
• Ear cropping: Not practiced in Kerry Blue Terriers (natural ears)

Weaning: Begin introducing softened puppy food at 3–4 weeks. Full weaning typically occurs by 5–6 weeks, though puppies continue to nurse socially if the dam permits.

Puppy Development Milestones

Kerry Blue Terrier puppies follow a predictable growth curve, though individual variation occurs. Understanding developmental milestones enables breeders to provide appropriate socialization, structural evaluation, and buyer education.

Weekly growth expectations:

Kerry Blue puppies are born at approximately 8.5–9.5 ounces (females) to 9–10 ounces (males) and reach 8.6–9.5 pounds by 8 weeks of age. Growth continues steadily through adolescence, with full adult size achieved at 18–24 months.

Key developmental milestones:

Neonatal period (birth–2 weeks):

• Eyes and ears closed
• Limited mobility (crawling)
• Entirely dependent on dam
• Daily weighing essential to monitor thriving

Transitional period (2–3 weeks):

• Eyes open at 10–14 days
• Ears open around day 14
• First teeth emerge
• Begin walking unsteadily

Socialization period (3–12 weeks):

• 3–4 weeks: Increased mobility, play behavior begins, introduction to soft puppy food
• 4–6 weeks: Rapid learning phase, peak socialization window opens, first vaccinations
• 6–8 weeks: Structural evaluation for breeding/show potential, temperament testing, peak socialization window
• 8–10 weeks: Go-home age (most puppies placed at 8–10 weeks)

Critical socialization window: The period from 3–14 weeks is the most critical for socialization. Puppies should be exposed to a variety of people, environments, sounds, and gentle handling. Continue socialization through 6 months to build confidence.

Fear periods: Kerry Blue Terrier puppies may experience a fear period around 8–10 weeks and again during adolescence. Avoid traumatic experiences during these sensitive periods.

Structural evaluation timing:

• 8–12 weeks: Initial evaluation for breeding/show potential vs. pet quality. Assess head type, proportions, coat texture (as much as possible in young puppies), and movement.
• 6–8 months: Final evaluation after adolescent growth phase. Coat should be clearing from black to blue.

Go-home age: 8–10 weeks is standard for Kerry Blue Terrier puppies. Puppies should have age-appropriate vaccinations, veterinary health checks, microchips, and AKC limited or full registration papers.

Adult size achievement: Kerry Blue Terriers reach full adult height by 12 months but continue to fill out and mature until 18–24 months of age. This extended maturation aligns with the OFA 24-month hip evaluation requirement.

Coat color development: Puppies are born solid black. The coat begins clearing (lightening) to blue around 6–8 months, with full blue color achieved by 18 months. Breeders should educate buyers about this gradual color change, as many first-time owners are surprised by the black puppies!

Breeding Economics

Breeding Kerry Blue Terriers requires significant financial investment in health testing, stud fees, prenatal care, and whelping. Understanding the complete cost structure and realistic revenue expectations is essential for sustainable breeding programs.

Complete cost breakdown for one litter:

Pre-breeding costs per dam:

• Health testing: $640 (hips, eyes, DNA tests, cardiac evaluation)
• This is a one-time cost for the dam's breeding career, though eye exams require annual renewal ($70/year)

Per-litter costs:

• Stud fee: $800 (average for proven stud with health clearances)
• Progesterone testing: $320 (4–6 blood tests to time optimal breeding)
• Prenatal veterinary care: $850 (ultrasound, radiograph, prenatal exams)
• Whelping cost (natural): $300 (supplies, potential emergency vet on standby)
• Whelping cost (C-section, if needed): $1,800 (emergency surgical delivery)
• Puppy veterinary costs: $150 per puppy × 4 puppies = $600 (exams, first vaccines, dewormings, microchips)
• Food and supplies: $400 (increased dam food, puppy food, whelping supplies)
• AKC registration: $200 (litter registration and individual puppy registrations)

Total cost per litter (natural whelping): ~$3,910

Total cost per litter (C-section): ~$5,410

Revenue:

Average puppy pricing:

• Pet-quality puppies (limited AKC registration): $2,000
• Show-quality puppies (full AKC registration): $2,500

Average litter revenue (4 puppies): $8,000

This assumes an average mix of pet and show-quality puppies. In reality, most litters produce primarily pet-quality puppies with 1–2 show-potential puppies.

Net per litter:

• Natural whelping: $8,000 revenue – $3,910 costs = $4,090 net
• C-section whelping: $8,000 revenue – $5,410 costs = $2,590 net

Important economic considerations:

1. Small litter sizes reduce profitability: At 4 puppies average, fixed costs (health testing, stud fee, prenatal care) are distributed across fewer puppies compared to breeds with larger litters. A litter of 2 puppies may result in a financial loss.
2. Not all puppies sell at full price: Breeders may offer discounts for co-ownership, breeding rights, or to approved show homes.
3. Hidden costs: Advertising, website maintenance, puppy supplies (collars, toys, blankets), buyer screening time, and post-sale support represent additional unpaid labor.
4. Health testing is a sunk cost: If a dog fails health testing (hip dysplasia, for example), the breeder has invested $640 but cannot ethically breed that dog.
5. Not all breedings result in pregnancy: Failed breedings (no pregnancy after mating) represent lost stud fees and time.

Is breeding Kerry Blue Terriers profitable?

Breeding Kerry Blue Terriers can generate modest income for established breeders with proven lines, but it is rarely a primary income source. The small litter size and significant health testing investment mean breeders must plan carefully and price puppies appropriately to cover costs while maintaining breeding quality.

Most successful Kerry Blue Terrier breeders breed for love of the breed and to produce their next show or performance prospect, viewing any financial return as a bonus rather than the primary motivation.

Breeder Resources

The United States Kerry Blue Terrier Club (USKBTC) provides comprehensive support for Kerry Blue Terrier breeders, including health resources, breeding guidelines, mentorship programs, and educational materials.

Parent breed club:

• United States Kerry Blue Terrier Club (USKBTC): uskbtc.com
• The USKBTC offers breeder education seminars, health surveys, pedigree databases, and a breeder referral program.

AKC breeder programs:

• AKC Breeder of Merit: Recognition program for breeders who demonstrate commitment to health testing, education, and breed improvement.
• AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T.: Higher-level program requiring additional health testing, continuing education, and breeder standards.

Recommended books:

• The Complete Kerry Blue Terrier by Montgomery
• The Kerry Blue Terrier by Caspersz
• The Official Book of the Kerry Blue Terrier (published by USKBTC)

Online communities and regional clubs:

• USKBTC Facebook Group (active community for sharing photos, advice, and health updates)
• Kerry Blue Terrier Club of Southern California
• Kerry Blue Terrier Club of Northern California

Health databases:

• OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals): ofa.org – registry for hip, eye, cardiac, and other health clearances
• CHIC (Canine Health Information Center): Tracks breed-specific health testing compliance

Mentorship: The USKBTC offers breeder mentorship programs connecting experienced breeders with newcomers. Contact the club's breeder education committee for mentor matching.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many puppies do Kerry Blue Terriers typically have?

Kerry Blue Terriers typically have 4 puppies per litter, with a range of 1–7 puppies. This is smaller than many terrier breeds, which impacts breeding economics as fixed costs are distributed across fewer puppies.

Do Kerry Blue Terriers need C-sections?

Kerry Blue Terriers have a C-section rate of approximately 12%, which is relatively low. Natural whelping is the norm, though first-time mothers may need supervision. Small litter sizes can occasionally result in larger puppies that complicate delivery, so breeders should monitor labor closely.

What health tests are required for breeding Kerry Blue Terriers?

CHIC-required tests include hip evaluation (OFA) at 24 months and annual eye examination. Strongly recommended additional tests include Factor XI deficiency DNA test, von Willebrand disease DNA test, degenerative myelopathy DNA test, and cardiac evaluation. Total estimated health testing cost is $640 per breeding dog.

How much does it cost to breed Kerry Blue Terriers?

A single Kerry Blue Terrier litter costs approximately $3,910 for natural whelping or $5,410 if a C-section is required. This includes health testing, stud fee, progesterone testing, prenatal care, whelping costs, puppy vet care, food, and registration fees.

At what age can you breed a Kerry Blue Terrier?

Female Kerry Blue Terriers should not be bred before 24 months of age, after completion of all health testing including OFA hip evaluation. Males should also be at least 24 months old and have OFA hip clearance before being used at stud.

How much do Kerry Blue Terrier puppies cost?

Kerry Blue Terrier puppies typically cost $2,000 for pet-quality (limited registration) and $2,500 for show-quality (full registration) from health-tested parents. Prices vary based on breeder reputation, titles, and health testing.

What are the most common health problems in Kerry Blue Terriers?

The most significant health concerns in Kerry Blue Terriers include Factor XI deficiency (bleeding disorder), von Willebrand disease (bleeding disorder), hip dysplasia, progressive neuronal abiotrophy (rare but devastating cerebellar disease), degenerative myelopathy, patent ductus arteriosus (congenital heart defect), keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye), and entropion. DNA testing and clinical screening enable informed breeding decisions.

Is breeding Kerry Blue Terriers profitable?

Breeding Kerry Blue Terriers can generate modest income (approximately $4,090 net per litter with natural whelping and 4 puppies) but is rarely a primary income source due to small litter sizes and significant health testing investment. Most breeders breed for love of the breed and to produce their next show prospect.

Why are Kerry Blue Terrier puppies born black?

Kerry Blue Terrier puppies are born solid black and gradually "clear" to blue by 18 months of age due to the progressive graying gene (G locus). This gradual color change is one of the breed's most distinctive characteristics. Dogs that fail to clear to blue by 18 months are disqualified from breeding and showing.

What makes the Kerry Blue Terrier coat unique?

The Kerry Blue Terrier coat is soft and wavy (not wiry or silky), non-shedding, and progressively grays from black at birth to any shade of blue by 18 months. Proper coat texture is essential for breed type and is carefully selected in breeding programs. The coat requires regular grooming and trimming to maintain the characteristic Kerry Blue Terrier appearance.