Cavalier King Charles Spaniel vs Kerry Blue Terrier

Toy · Small vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Kerry Blue Terrier is the larger breed at 33–40 lbs (males) vs 13–18 lbs for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
  • The Kerry Blue Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Kerry Blue Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCavalier King Charles SpanielKerry Blue Terrier
Group
ToyTerrier
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandIreland
Height (male)
12–13"18–19.5"
Height (female)
12–13"17.5–19"
Weight (male)
13–18 lbs33–40 lbs
Weight (female)
13–18 lbs33–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an affectionate, gentle, graceful spaniel — bred as a lapdog companion to British royalty. Originally from England, this small toy breed typically weighs 13–18 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, gentle, graceful.

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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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Mitral valve disease
  • Syringomyelia
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems

Kerry Blue Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy