Bouvier des Flandres vs Kerry Blue Terrier

Herding · Large vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Bouvier des Flandres is the larger breed at 70–110 lbs (males) vs 33–40 lbs for the Kerry Blue Terrier.
  • The Kerry Blue Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Kerry Blue Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBouvier des FlandresKerry Blue Terrier
Group
HerdingTerrier
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
BelgiumIreland
Height (male)
24.5–27.5"18–19.5"
Height (female)
23.5–26.5"17.5–19"
Weight (male)
70–110 lbs33–40 lbs
Weight (female)
70–110 lbs33–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–15 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.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)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.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres is a courageous, strong-willed, devoted Belgian cattle drover — bearded farm guardian and WWI ambulance dog. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 70–110 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, strong-willed, devoted.

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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Bouvier des Flandres health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat

Kerry Blue Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy