Kerry Blue Terrier vs Poodle (Standard)

Terrier · Medium vs Non-Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Poodle (Standard) is the larger breed at 60–70 lbs (males) vs 33–40 lbs for the Kerry Blue Terrier.
  • The Poodle (Standard) typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Poodle (Standard) is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitKerry Blue TerrierPoodle (Standard)
Group
TerrierNon-Sporting
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
IrelandGermany
Height (male)
18–19.5"18–24"
Height (female)
17.5–19"18–24"
Weight (male)
33–40 lbs60–70 lbs
Weight (female)
33–40 lbs40–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years10–18 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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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 Poodle (Standard)

The Poodle (Standard) is an elegant, athletic, and exceptionally intelligent water dog — far more than its show-ring image suggests. Originally from Germany, this large non-sporting breed typically weighs 60–70 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, proud, very smart.

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Kerry Blue Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy

Poodle (Standard) health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Addison's disease
  • Eye disorders