Kerry Blue Terrier vs Russell Terrier
Terrier · Medium vs Terrier · Small
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
Russell TerrierSmall
A lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty.
Weight: 9–15 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Quick take
- • Kerry Blue Terrier is the larger breed at 33–40 lbs (males) vs 9–15 lbs for the Russell Terrier.
- • The Kerry Blue Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Kerry Blue Terrier sheds less.
- • The Kerry Blue Terrier is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Kerry Blue Terrier | Russell Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Terrier | Terrier |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | Ireland | England |
Height (male) | 18–19.5" | 10–12" |
Height (female) | 17.5–19" | 10–12" |
Weight (male) | 33–40 lbs | 9–15 lbs |
Weight (female) | 33–40 lbs | 9–15 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 12–14 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
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. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | wirehaired | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
Ad slot · compare-mid
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 Russell Terrier
The Russell Terrier is a lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 9–15 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as lively, alert, inquisitive.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Kerry Blue Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Cerebellar abiotrophy
Russell Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Patellar luxation
- • Eye disorders
- • Deafness