Training a Kerry Blue Terrier: what works and what to expect

Kerries are bright and learn quickly, but they are independent terriers with their own ideas about timing. Positive, reward-based methods, sessions of five to ten minutes and plenty of variety work best; many Kerries will happily learn 20 tricks and then pretend they have never heard of sit when a squirrel appears. Harsh correction backfires with this proud breed and tends to create a standoff.

Priorities are dog-to-dog manners, recall and impulse control. Because Kerries can be quarrelsome with other dogs, ongoing positive socialization matters throughout life, not just in puppyhood, and on-lead greetings with strange dogs are best kept brief. Teach a solid leave it and a settle cue, and give your Kerry a regular job such as scentwork or obedience to focus that sharp mind. Grooming-table manners (standing still, accepting the dryer) are worth training too, since they shape every groom for the next 12 years.