Kerry Blue Terrier vs Labrador Retriever
Terrier · Medium vs Sporting · Large
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
Labrador RetrieverLarge
America's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl.
Weight: 65–80 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Quick take
- • Labrador Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 33–40 lbs for the Kerry Blue Terrier.
- • The Kerry Blue Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Labrador Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Kerry Blue Terrier sheds less.
- • The Labrador Retriever is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Kerry Blue Terrier | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Sporting |
Size | Medium | Large |
Origin | Ireland | Canada |
Height (male) | 18–19.5" | 22.5–24.5" |
Height (female) | 17.5–19" | 21.5–23.5" |
Weight (male) | 33–40 lbs | 65–80 lbs |
Weight (female) | 33–40 lbs | 55–70 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 11–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very Low (1/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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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.
About the Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is america's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl. Originally from Canada, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, active, outgoing, even-tempered.
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Kerry Blue Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Cerebellar abiotrophy
Labrador Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Obesity
- • Progressive retinal atrophy