Kerry Blue Terrier vs Rottweiler

Terrier · Medium vs Working · Large

Quick take
  • Rottweiler is the larger breed at 95–135 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.
  • The Rottweiler is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitKerry Blue TerrierRottweiler
Group
TerrierWorking
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
IrelandGermany
Height (male)
18–19.5"24–27"
Height (female)
17.5–19"22–25"
Weight (male)
33–40 lbs95–135 lbs
Weight (female)
33–40 lbs80–100 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years9–10 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)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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 Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a loyal, loving, confident guardian — descendant of Roman drover dogs, requires firm training. Originally from Germany, this large working breed typically weighs 95–135 lbs and lives 9–10 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, loving, confident guardian.

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Kerry Blue Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy

Rottweiler health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Cancer
  • Bloat