Hovawart vs Kerry Blue Terrier
Breed Compatibility
90% Compatible
Energy Level
Hovawart: Regular Exercise0.6
Kerry Blue Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Hovawart: May be Stubborn0.2
Kerry Blue Terrier: May be Stubborn0.2
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Hovawart: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Kerry Blue Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Hovawart4/5
Kerry Blue Terrier4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Hovawart4/5
Kerry Blue Terrier2/5
Good with Strangers
Hovawart4/5
Kerry Blue Terrier3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Hovawart
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Heart Disease: Cardiac health concerns
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Kerry Blue Terrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Entropion and cataracts
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Brain disorder
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clot
Skin Allergies: Dermatitis issues
Pros & Cons Comparison
Hovawart
Pros
Loyal and protective
Intelligent
Good with family
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Strong-willed
Needs extensive training
High exercise needs
Reserved with strangers
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
Hovawart Fun Fact
Hovawarts were mentioned in German law books from the 13th century as valuable property worth defending.
Kerry Blue Terrier Fun Fact
Their unique blue-gray coat starts black at birth and gradually changes color over the first two years of life.
Heritage & Purpose
Hovawart
Origin:
Developed in medieval Germany as estate guardians and working farm dogs. Black Forest farmers valued these dogs for their protective instincts and versatile working abilities.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Origin:
Developed in County Kerry, Ireland during the 1700s as versatile farm dogs, these terriers excelled at hunting small game, controlling vermin, and herding livestock.
Special Considerations
Hovawart
Needs consistent training from an early age. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily to prevent behavioral issues.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed every 4-8 weeks. Daily exercise requirements must be met. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
Shedding
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