Chow Chow 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.
Chow Chow
Non-Sporting Group
Kerry Blue Terrier
Terrier Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Chow Chow Overview
Majestic and powerful, the Chow Chow boasts a distinctive lion-like mane and unique blue-black tongue. Their sturdy build, deep-set eyes, and thick double coat create an impressive presence. Standing proudly with a characteristic scowling expression, these ancient dogs combine strength with remarkable agility. Their aloof demeanor and dignified bearing reflect their noble heritage as guardians and companions.
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: Chow Chows are less energetic than Kerry Blue Terriers, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Chow Chows require less grooming attention compared to Kerry Blue Terriers.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Chow Chows tend to be more reserved with strangers than Kerry Blue Terriers.
- Trainability: Chow Chows may be slightly easier to train due to their Chow Chow's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Kerry Blue Terriers adapt better to apartment living, while Chow Chows typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Chow Chow and Kerry Blue Terrier, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Chow Chow | Kerry Blue Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Small |
| Life Expectancy | 8-12 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Non-Sporting Group | Terrier Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Chow Chow | Kerry Blue Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 17-20 inches 43-51 cm | 18-20 inches 44-50 cm |
| Weight | 45-70 lbs 20-32 kg | 33-40 lbs 15-18 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Unknown |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Chow Chow | Kerry Blue Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Dignified, Bright, Serious-Minded | Smart, Alert, People-Oriented |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Chow Chow | Kerry Blue Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Chow Chow Temperament
The Chow Chow is known for being dignified, bright, serious-minded, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. 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 Chow Chow 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
Chow Chow
Rating: 3/5
Kerry Blue Terrier
Rating: 4/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Chow Chow
Rating: 2/5
Kerry Blue Terrier
Rating: 2/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Chow Chow
Rating: 3/5
Kerry Blue Terrier
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Chow Chow
Rating: 2/5
Kerry Blue Terrier
Rating: 1/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Chow Chow
Rating: 4/5
Kerry Blue Terrier
Rating: 4/5
Care & Maintenance
Chow Chow Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Chow Chows 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, Chow Chows require frequent grooming. This includes brushing several times per week to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 4-8 weeks is recommended.
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
Chow Chow Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Entropion
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Thyroid Disease
- Patellar Luxation
Kerry Blue Terrier Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Cerebellar Abiotrophy
- Hypothyroidism
- von Willebrand's Disease
Pros & Cons
Chow Chow
Pros
- Loyal to family
- Clean and cat-like
- Excellent guard dog
- Minimal barking
- Independent nature
Cons
- Stubborn personality
- Challenging to train
- Heavy shedding
- Aloof with strangers
- Requires regular grooming
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 Chow Chow and Kerry Blue Terrier, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.