Kerry Blue Terrier vs Welsh Terrier

Terrier · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Kerry Blue Terrier is the larger breed at 33–40 lbs (males) vs 20 lbs for the Welsh Terrier.

Side-by-side traits

TraitKerry Blue TerrierWelsh Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
IrelandWales
Height (male)
18–19.5"15–15.5"
Height (female)
17.5–19"15–15.5"
Weight (male)
33–40 lbs20 lbs
Weight (female)
33–40 lbs20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
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)High (4/5)
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)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedwirehaired
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 Welsh Terrier

The Welsh Terrier is a spirited, friendly, intelligent Welsh otter and badger hunter — looks like a smaller Airedale. Originally from Wales, this small terrier breed typically weighs 20 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, friendly, intelligent.

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Kerry Blue Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cerebellar abiotrophy

Welsh Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Allergies