When evaluating Kerry Blue Terriers, both in the show ring and in breeding programs, judges and breeders must balance multiple factors—head length, coat quality, conformation, and dentition, to name a few. But which of these is the highest priority? What faults are acceptable, and which fundamentally compromise the breed’s purpose?
The reality is that no dog fits the standard perfectly, but the goal is always to get as close as possible. Some aesthetic imperfections, such as slight variations in coat texture or minor deviations in head proportions, can be tolerated. However, when it comes to functionality and temperament, compromise is not an option.
Temperament: The Foundation of the Kerry Blue Terrier
At the heart of a well-bred Kerry Blue Terrier is a stable, confident temperament. These dogs were historically bred for versatility—herding, hunting, farm work, and family companionship. A Kerry should be bold, intelligent, and self-assured while maintaining control and responsiveness to its handler.
- A Kerry Blue Terrier must be able to stand its ground without undue aggression or fear. Fear aggression is a serious issue in any breed, but in a working terrier, it can lead to unpredictability and even human-directed aggression.
- Dog aggression should not be confused with correct sparring behavior. Judges often ask Kerries to spar—standing confidently and assessing one another’s presence—but this should not escalate into lunging, uncontrolled reactivity, or fear-driven responses.
- A Kerry must be able to be called off and remain under control. If a dog cannot recover from sparring or becomes erratic, it is not demonstrating the correct temperament for the breed.
Confirmation Matters: Form Follows Function
Beyond temperament, conformation directly impacts a dog’s ability to function. A dog with poor build may struggle with movement, endurance, and efficiency in its original working roles.
A slight fault in head length or coat texture does not affect the dog’s ability to perform its duties. Structural faults, such as poor angulation, weak toplines, or faulty movement, do compromise the dog’s function. A Kerry who cannot move efficiently will tire quickly, lack endurance, and be less effective at work
“Without the cake, you can’t have icing.” Meaning, that while aesthetics like coat quality or ear set are important for presentation, they mean little if the dog lacks the proper structure and temperament.
The Role of Responsible Breeding
Temperament and structure are largely heritable traits. This is why pedigree research and selecting from reputable breeders is crucial. Some bloodlines carry a history of fear aggression, which can be predicted and avoided with careful breeding practices.
Final Thoughts: What Should Judges and Breeders Prioritize?
When evaluating a Kerry Blue Terrier, aesthetic traits should always be secondary to sound temperament and functional conformation. A slightly imperfect coat can be groomed. A slightly off head-shape will not affect the dog’s ability to work.
But a dog with an unstable mind, fear-based aggression, or poor structure is not just a deviation from the standard—it is a fundamental failure to uphold the purpose of the breed.
Judging and breeding decisions should always prioritize temperament, control, and function first. Everything else? That’s just the icing.