Kerry-blue terrier: the nature and complexity of the content, illness and care

One of the oldest breeds of dogs that appeared in Ireland is the kerry-blue terrier. For the Irish people, it is considered a national symbol of their country. This pet is very peculiar both in appearance and in character. What features distinguish it from other breeds of dogs? To answer this question will help complete information about this unusual pet.

History

Looking through the breeds of dogs with photos, you can not miss the kerry-blue. Among all, he stands out for his unusual appearance and blue beautiful wool, which is the result of the selection work of scientists, which has been going on for many years and aimed at improving this kind of terriers.

There is no exact information about the original origin of the breed. All information is more like a legend. One thing is known for sure: kerry-blue terrier - comes from Ireland (County Kerry). The breed has been more than 150 years old. For the first time his reliable description appeared in 1847.

This breed was represented at the first exhibition in 1913, and in 1924 the Dublin club regulating blu terriers was registered. The Irish people made this breed a symbol of the country's independence along with the trefoil. By 1925 in Ireland there were already four breed clubs, which organized exhibitions and tests of working qualities of terrier terriers. Such an active activity interested the dog breeders of other countries. The animals were taken to Canada, the USA and some European states.

At an exhibition held in 1928, the title "Almost Perfect Dog" received a kerry-blue terrier. The dog became the third breed, which was officially recognized by the young international cynological federation (ICF).

Temperament

The Blue Terrier is a cheerful and intelligent dog. She is a faithful friend and faithful companion for life. Description of breeds of dogs, compiled by specialists, highlights such features of this pet:

• high efficiency;
• Instant reaction;
• curiosity;
• Ruthless attitude towards the offender;
• Natural flair for negative and positive motives;
• mobility.

In spite of the fact that this four-legged friend has perfectly got accustomed in an apartment, to keep it as a decorative little animal it is impossible. Initially, the breed was formed for hunting small game or rodents - it is a born hunter, who must spend a lot of time in active physical activity.

Curiosity, the natural mind and the cheerfulness of the kerry-blues guide him to the constant development of new skills and knowledge. He can not be assiduous, because he is always striving for new knowledge. These features make the pup well trained. Conscientious accomplishment of the set goals, leadership, attempts to prove themselves and please the owner is typical behavior for the Kerry-Blue Terrier breed. Photos of these four-legged friends completely convey their character. Forward ears emphasize the lively and interested expression of the muzzle. The attentive and penetrating look of the dark eyes gives out the mind and natural flair.

Very friendly this pet in relation to the kids and often takes part in games with them. Devotion and love for all the inhabitants of the family at the kerry-blue simply knows no boundaries, but he is wary of strangers. Feeling a danger to loved ones, the pet is able to show all the power and strength to protect the owner.

What are the Terriers?

According to the classification of the ICF, Kerry-blu belongs to the standard No. 3 of section No. 1 (medium-sized dogs) and to group No. 3 (terriers, which includes other similar breeds of dogs). Names of these pets: Lakeland Terrier, Scotch Terrier, West Highland White Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier. They differ in appearance, character and predilection for hunting. The first differences in the descriptions of these rocks appeared many years ago. Most of today's terriers are of British origin. They are still divided into animals that were bred on the Scottish, English and Irish territories. Breeds of dogs, whose names have the word "terrier", are represented by many beautiful pets. The brightest, most extraordinary and most prominent of them is by right - kerry-blue.

Application of rock

The explosive and daring nature of the Kerry-Blues makes them excellent guards.

They will truly guard the object entrusted to them and will not be afraid to engage in battle even with a rival larger than himself. This breed will be an excellent friend for the hunter. It can be used to search for small predators and rabbits. The Blue Terrier floats remarkably, so in ancient times it was used to catch otters. In addition, this pet is an excellent rat-catcher.

The dog is very smart and devoted to the owner, so it becomes an excellent companion for life.

External standards

The height in the withers' area in males is about 45-49 cm (18-19 inches), and in bitches - 45-48 cm (17-18 inches). The average weight varies between 15-18 kg. Description of breeds of dogs, compiled by the ICF, identifies such standard external indicators:

• The head is powerful and large, covered with abundant woolen covering, with a faint transition from forehead to muzzle;
• The ears resemble an isosceles triangle;
• The eyes of dark shades have an expression of some alertness;
• Nose with large and wide nostrils;
• Gums and the sky of dark shades;
• Powerful jaws have developed musculature and are capable of providing a strong grip;
• Short croup;
• Strong bones with a dry constitution, muscles in the area of scapula, deep thorax and flat back;
• A high set thin tail is held in an upright position;
• Straight limbs with well-developed muscles;
• The wool is wavy and dense, soft to the touch;
• Any color of the blue shade is possible, as well as coloring the ends of the wool in black tones (up to one and a half years black or brown-red color of the wool cover is allowed).

Considering the breeds of dogs with a photo, you can see that the kerry-blu is favorably different in appearance. Elegant shiny wool of unusual shade, proud posture and proportional composition distinguish it among the brethren with a truly aristocratic appearance.

Puppies

Kids Blue Terrier have a black fur, which by 2-3 years will get bluish shades. The first hairstyle is done after a change of teeth. It is in the first year that the foundation of the pet's health is laid, therefore, during this period care, walks, proper feeding and adequate upbringing are important.

It should be remembered that the Kerry-Blue Terrier puppies are rather fragile individuals with a weak muscular system and ligaments. It is important without the need to raise them, not to allow anyone to drag, hold or pull the tail. If you want to take the baby in your arms, raise it under the breast and seat with both hands simultaneously. You can not take under your tummy!

The place for sleeping should be soft, spacious and away from the heating system and drafts. In rooms visited by small inhabitants, it is necessary to remove all dangerous or valuable things in an unreachable place: small items, wires, equipment, hanging curtains, tablecloths and so on.

Special toys of pressed rubber or latex, which can be found at every point of the pet goods, are simply necessary. They help to avoid damage to things, develop a pet and save it from boredom. You can use children's toys made of elastic plastic or rubber, as well as sticks of solid wood.

Up to three months of age, the appearance of unpleasant heaps and puddles on the floor can not be avoided. To punish or abuse a baby for a natural need is unacceptable. To keep the house clean, you need to organize a few trays, a diaper or a bunch of newspapers and accustom your pet to cope with the need in the proper place.

After three months, you can start walking with moderate physical activity. As the baby grows, the length of walks gradually increases. If from three to four months to take a puppy out onto the street 4-6 times a day, he will quickly get used to defecate outside the house.

Possible difficulties

Sociability, intelligence and cleverness in the blood of the breed kerry-blue terrier. The character, however, also has a negative feature - bullying. Because of his hot Irish temperament, the pet not only likes fights - he is willing to provoke their appearance and take an active part. It contains natural aggression towards other animals, including dogs. Experts argue that this behavior is manifested only when the incorrect education of a four-legged friend or his late socialization. That's why long walks in the society of brothers are so useful. This defect can be corrected by starting as early as possible to bring up a pet. However, it should be borne in mind that the dog has a bright personality and unique temperament, so the strictness of education should be moderate, and the pressure on the pet is better to exclude.

The next complication may be labor-intensive care for the wool cover of the kerry-blue and its cutting, requiring the presence of qualifications or specialist assistance.

Education

Already from 3-4 months during the walk you can start educational activities and train puppy training skills. Kerry-blue terrier is prone to pugnaciousness by the properties of his temperament. The correct educational process helps to avoid such a problem in behavior, and the pet will also learn to respect the dog breeder. Education is based on such subtleties as: adequate firmness, friendly cooperation and full respect for the personality of one's ward. Blue Terrier absolutely does not tolerate any pressure or rudeness in his address, but with him at any time you can agree in an amicable way. Do not immediately scold the pet, perhaps he did not understand the desire of the master. The main thing is to learn how to understand your four-legged friend and clearly explain your requirement. This breed is very smart by nature and is very amenable to training skills, so it can be easily found contact. From the kerry-blu can make an excellent athlete, thanks to his good memory and the presence of drive and passion, laid genetically.

Education should be consistent and moderately strict. Particular attention should be given to aggression towards other animals, suppressing and not encouraging it initially. In order to help socialize and avoid problems with behavior in the future, you need to find suitable companions for walks as early as possible. You should know that this breed does not belong to the pets and will suit the owner, who has enough time and desire for walks, care and education of his four-footed friend.

How to care for the wool cover?

Chic wool bluish shades - one of the main virtues that can be proud of a kerry-blue terrier. Description of the breed emphasizes that the woolen coat is wavy, dense, resembling silk. In addition, she has no unpleasant "dog" smell and moult.

Before you start the process of cutting, you need to prepare a pet. It must be carefully combed, and then washed and dried. The dog combs against the coat. During the haircut, the animal must be made to take the correct pose, as in the exhibition.

Cutting kerry-blue terrier requires a certain skill, knowledge of the anatomy of the breed and its standards. Professionally executed work on cutting does not only hide some of the shortcomings in the creation of the animal, but also emphasizes the dignity of his figure. The trimmed dog should not look like he just left the hairdresser's salon. Transitions between parts of his body must be performed smoothly, naturally and beautifully.

Cut your pet better for 2-5 weeks before the exhibition, hoping that by the right day the length of the fur on his back was about 3-5 cm.

For home care for a wool cover four-legged friend will need a brush made of natural bristles, a comb of metal with rare denticles and a special brush with curled metal teeth. If the owner himself wants to cut his pet, then still need to buy sharp quality scissors and a clipper.

Combing a four-legged friend should be carefully, at least three times a week, otherwise the coat will become poorly groomed and in it coots will form. Do a haircut better at least once in three months or as the woolen coat grows.

Care

Care measures include not only regular mowing and combing of the Kerry-Blue Terrier breed. Photo of the pets confirms that they have a long beard and a fur on the face, which also require constant attention. Wool is better to collect with an elastic band, otherwise the beard will appear not well-groomed and contaminated with food. Most often it is washed after each feeding. In addition, the hairs, getting into the eyes, can cause their suppuration. Overgrown hair can be shortened with a pair of scissors.

Kerry-blue also needs other systematic procedures. Remember to clean the eyes of the pet. Every day they need to be wiped with a cotton swab dipped in clean water. Once every two weeks, it is necessary to inspect the auricles and clean them as much as possible. Monthly clamps should be shortened. Removal of plaque should also be included in the list of regular events. This must be done at least once every three weeks to avoid the appearance of stones.

Possible diseases

The breed of kerry-blue terrier is distinguished by quite good health and strong immune system. These dogs are not prone to any disease. Nevertheless, it should be remembered that a healthy lifestyle for such a dog is possible only with the right diet and regular physical exertion, allowing you to keep the pet in excellent physical shape. Only daily active walks will provide not only a sound sleep, but longevity.

Important and timely vaccination, protecting the pet from deadly pathologies.

Particular attention should be paid to the ears of the animal. Due to too tight fitting to the skull, the auricle is poorly ventilated, and this can cause ear infections. Wool on the inner side of the ear should be regularly shortened.

Kerry-blue is prone to certain diseases, which affect other breeds. To them it is possible to carry:

• Dislocation of the calyx;
• Dysplasia of the hip joints;
• plague;
• Viral enteritis;
• Chronic otitis media;
• cataract;
• Leptospirosis;
• Oncological tumors;
• hepatitis.

Feeding natural food

The daily diet of the pet can be selected on the basis of a specialized ready-made food or food prepared at home. With the right approach, both methods are good.

The positive moment of this method is obvious - the owner is confident in the composition of the dish. By cons are time costs for cooking, buying ingredients and selecting the composition depending on the condition of the pet. When feeding natural dishes, you need to competently create a balanced menu, so as not to spoil the health of the pet. Some recommendations will help:

1. The breed of dogs kerry-blue terrier refers to predators, so the lion's share of the diet is low-fat meat, for example turkey, veal, beef or white chicken breast. The average daily requirement of an urban adult is about 250-300 grams of meat products. An active pet of a young age or an animal that has problems with weight gain should receive up to 350 grams of meat per day. Meat piece is scalded with boiling water or cooked for about 10 minutes.
2. The source of fiber will be porridge (better buckwheat or rice), which must be thoroughly digested. It should be remembered that the correct portion is not a porridge with meat, but a meat dish with the addition of cereals and vegetables.
3. Meat needs vegetable ingredients, and it is desirable to exclude leguminous and white cabbage. Vegetables are better to offer in raw form with the addition of a teaspoon of any vegetable oil - so properly absorbed vitamins.
4. In addition to meat, cereals and vegetables, it is necessary to add dairy products. A good source of calcium will be cottage cheese in its pure form, and not curd mass.
5. After consultation with a veterinarian, you can pick up the mineral-vitamin complexes corresponding to the age of the pet to a natural diet.

Feeding with food

Ready-made feeds have such advantages: they save time, are convenient on trips, and the problem beard of breed kerry-blu-terrier remains clean at eating dry snacks. Disadvantages can occur with daily consumption of poor-quality products: allergic reactions, dull fur, dandruff and violation of gastrointestinal functions. Therefore, it is important to choose the right manufacturer and carefully study the composition in which meat products should prevail. In dry food, there is not enough moisture, which means that you need constant access to fresh water. It needs to be changed daily. 15 minutes before meals, dry snacks can be soaked with hot water (about 70 ° C).

Healthy eating tips

The listed ways of feeding will approach both to kids kerri-blju, and to adult individuals. The only difference is the portion volume and the number of feedings per day.

A toddler at the age of 1.5-2 months is fed 4 times a day. 3-4-month-old puppies should have 3 feedings. Individuals older than six months of age and adult animals are fed twice a day. It is necessary to take into account several useful recommendations:

• Do not salivate the dish;
• Do not feed the portions prepared for the human table;
• Do not treat pastries and sweets;
• To prevent the selection of any food for a walk;
• Feed in the morning and evening at certain times;
• Watch out for the presence of clean water in a pet bowl.

Price

Pokrodnye signs, the achievements of parents, the status of the seller, the availability of documentation, the urgency of the sale, the sex of the animal - all these factors affect the cost of a particular Kerry-Blue Terrier puppy. The price fluctuates between 12 000 - 30 000 rubles. For 12 000 - 15 000 you can buy a pretty thoroughbred puppy from the nursery with all the documents. But for 20 000 - 30 000 rubles, you can already buy a kid show class, whose parents have titles, certificates and other achievements.

Reviews

Smart, loyal, cheerful pets, bringing a sea of positive - these are the words the owners of the Kerry-Blue Terrier breed write about their pets. Reviews in most cases are only positive and enthusiastic. Quite a number of dog breeders note the cockiness of four-legged friends, although some argue that the four-legged friend acts so, trying to protect the owner.

All the owners say that the kerry-blue lovingly treats all family members, although some of them are sure - it binds and yearns for only one owner.

According to reviews, pets love water, trying to save anyone swimming. They do not worship souls in children, taking part in their gay, lively games.

Some of the complexity is caused by withdrawal, as the breed requires a lot of attention. Mark dog breeders and time costs for cleaning up the fur and beard. Haircut is also complex. It requires special training of the owner or visiting the master.