Border Terrier vs Kerry Blue Terrier
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Border Terrier
Terrier Group
Kerry Blue Terrier
Terrier Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Border Terrier Overview
Border Terriers possess a distinctive otter-like head, alert expression, and sturdy, well-proportioned frame. Their rough double coat, typically grizzle and tan or blue and tan, provides protection in all weather conditions. Standing 12-15 inches at the shoulder, these agile terriers combine a determined spirit with an affectionate nature, displaying remarkable stamina and intelligence in their movements.
Kerry Blue Terrier Overview
Kerry Blue Terriers boast a distinctive blue-gray coat that starts black and gradually changes color. With a muscular, well-proportioned body and alert expression, these medium-sized terriers carry themselves with dignity. Their soft, dense coat requires regular maintenance, while their keen intelligence and strong-willed nature make them engaging companions.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Border Terriers are less energetic than Kerry Blue Terriers, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Border Terriers require less grooming attention compared to Kerry Blue Terriers.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Border Terriers tend to be more outgoing with strangers than Kerry Blue Terriers.
- Trainability: Kerry Blue Terriers may be slightly easier to train due to their Kerry Blue Terrier's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Border Terriers adapt better to apartment living, while Kerry Blue Terriers typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Border Terrier and Kerry Blue Terrier, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Border Terrier | Kerry Blue Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Small |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Terrier Group | Terrier Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Border Terrier | Kerry Blue Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 12-15 inches 30-38 cm | 18-20 inches 44-50 cm |
| Weight | 11-15 lbs 5-7 kg | 33-40 lbs 15-18 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Occasional | Unknown |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Border Terrier | Kerry Blue Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Affectionate, Happy, Plucky | Smart, Alert, People-Oriented |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Border Terrier | Kerry Blue Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Border Terrier Temperament
The Border Terrier is known for being affectionate, happy, plucky, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They're typically friendly with strangers, making them poor guard dogs but excellent social companions. Their moderate energy level makes them adaptable to different lifestyles, though they still need regular exercise.
Kerry Blue Terrier Temperament
The Kerry Blue Terrier is characterized by being smart, alert, people-oriented, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They're naturally cautious around strangers, which enhances their ability to serve as watchdogs. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Border Terrier and Kerry Blue Terrier, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Border Terrier
Rating: 5/5
Kerry Blue Terrier
Rating: 4/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Border Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Kerry Blue Terrier
Rating: 2/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Border Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Kerry Blue Terrier
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Border Terrier
Rating: 1/5
Kerry Blue Terrier
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Border Terrier
Rating: 3/5
Kerry Blue Terrier
Rating: 4/5
Care & Maintenance
Border Terrier Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Border Terriers require moderate daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Border Terriers require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Kerry Blue Terrier Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Kerry Blue Terriers need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Kerry Blue Terriers require significant grooming attention. This includes brushing several times per week to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is typically necessary.
Health & Lifespan
Border Terrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip dysplasia
- SLEM
- Heart defects
- Epilepsy
- Eye problems
Kerry Blue Terrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Cerebellar Abiotrophy
- Hypothyroidism
- von Willebrand's Disease
Pros & Cons
Border Terrier
Pros
- Excellent with families
- Adaptable to different living situations
- Low grooming requirements
- Good with children
Cons
- Can be stubborn
- Strong prey drive
- May dig and bark
- Needs consistent exercise
Kerry Blue Terrier
Pros
- Intelligent and trainable
- Minimal shedding
- Versatile working ability
- Good watchdog
Cons
- High grooming needs
- Can be stubborn
- May be dog-aggressive
- Requires firm training
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Border Terrier and Kerry Blue Terrier, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.