Australian Terrier vs Kerry Blue Terrier
Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Medium
Australian TerrierSmall
A spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under.
Weight: 15–20 lbsLifespan: 11–15 years
Kerry Blue TerrierMedium
A smart, alert, people-oriented Irish farmer's all-purpose dog with a famous slate-blue coat.
Weight: 33–40 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Kerry Blue Terrier is the larger breed at 33–40 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the Australian Terrier.
- • The Kerry Blue Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Kerry Blue Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Australian Terrier | Kerry Blue Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Terrier |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | Australia | Ireland |
Height (male) | 10–11" | 18–19.5" |
Height (female) | 10–11" | 17.5–19" |
Weight (male) | 15–20 lbs | 33–40 lbs |
Weight (female) | 15–20 lbs | 33–40 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 11–15 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | Yes |
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About the Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under. Originally from Australia, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, alert, courageous.
About the Kerry Blue Terrier
The Kerry Blue Terrier is a smart, alert, people-oriented Irish farmer's all-purpose dog with a famous slate-blue coat. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 33–40 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as smart, alert, people-oriented.
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Australian Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Diabetes
- • Allergies
Kerry Blue Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Cerebellar abiotrophy