THE KERRY BLUE TERRIER OR IRISH BLUE TERRIER

The Kerry blue terrier pet dog is one of the most mysterious breeds of terriers.This is because of the fact that even though the breed has been known by the Irish for at least 150 years, nobody really knows where they came from or how they were first bred. Officially named as the national dog of Ireland it is also known as the Irish Blue Terrier.

Various legends are told in order to explain the appearance of the Kerry blue terrier breed. Some say that the peasants bred them for hunting purposes since noblemen monopolized the use of wolfhounds. Thus, noblemen hunted with their wolfhounds while peasants poached with their Irish Blue Terriers.

Another legend speaks of a wrecked Russian ship that contained a blue dog.The dog swam ashore in the Bay of Tralee on the Irish shore and there mated with the local terrier population. This, of course, started the genetic pool of the Kerry blue terriers.

Whatever the case, the Kerry blue terrier sure has a colorful history. It started as a working dog, bred to control vermin including rats, otters and badgers. It would also be trained as a police dog by the English. Today, it is considered to be one of the best breeds of dogs that one can own. This is in part of its excellent abilities as a watchdog.

One thing that is so great about owning a Kerry blue terrier pet dog is the fact that this breed is adaptable to every situation. It can be a hardworking hunter’s dog, but also a reliable house guard. If you want companionship, it can also provide that. People who own a Kerry blue terrier pet dog even say that once you are a Kerry lover, you are forever a Kerry lover.

There are some terrier characteristics which may cause a bit of trouble for your dog. Like all terriers, the Kerry blue terrier can get into fights with other dogs and do not mix well with cats. In order to prevent this, you need to make sure that the Blue Kerry terrier pet dog is properly socialized. Usually this is done by the breeder.

Most people, when they are getting a pet often ask the question of whether or not a pet can be housebroken easily. Thankfully enough, the Blue Kerry terrier pet dog has a disposition that is easily house trained. The Kerryblue terrier pet dog is actually quite eager to learn. This means that you will be able to train it very quickly.

The Kerry blue terrier is also one of the more hardy types of terriers. Its a versatile hard-working farmer's dog. This is because the Kerry blue terrier has very few genetic problems. Before buying one, however, you need to ask for eye certifications and hip x-rays. These are the most commonly afflicted parts of the Kerry blue terrier.

 The Irish blue terrier is a  very playful dog, so people may not really understand its habit of following everyone around. It is also a fierce, even surly dog, but one who is also highly intelligent, charming and trustworthy.

TRAINING YOUR AIREDALE TERRIER TO BEHAVE WELL

Contrary to popular belief an old dog can be taught new tricks. However, the earlier an Airedale terrier pet dog learns a trick, the faster he will be able to learn it. This also applies to general behavior. A born watchdog, it has a delinquent tendency to get into street brawls with other dogs. Obedience training from an early age can prevent many behavioral problems. This way, the behavioral training will be imprinted into the Airedale terrier brain and ensures that proper behavior becomes almost instinctive to the Airedale terrier. 

Dogs can be readily trained to obey a variety of commands. The best results are achieved by a method known as positive reinforcement. However, this method only work when properly executed. When your dog responds to a command he gets an incentive in the form of a treat. By repeating this exercise several times the dog starts to associate this conduct with a particular action. Don’t use the leash to punish your dog. Each method of training can only be effective if used in a way that will not harm the dog. Be firm but gentle. Train your dog to always obey your commands in such a manner that will encourage him to behave well.

Training an Airedale terrier can sometimes be very frustrating. However you should never loose your temper. Do not physically punish your dog for bad behavior. Don’t attempt training your dog while you are in a bad mood. You and your dog will learn nothing.

Timing is very important. You need to make corrections regarding you Airedale terrier behavior while those corrections are still relevant.

Reinforce your dominance over it through routine exercises.

Don’t confuse your dog by praising or correcting with the wrong timing. Well-trained dogs show interest in each other with no signs of fear or aggression.

Grooming requirements

The wiry coat of the Airedale terrier consists of stiff, dense hair. It needs regular grooming to prevent matting. Don't use conditioners on this type of coat, since the latter will soften it. Wiry coats do not molt and require regular hand-stripping or clipping.

DOGGY TREATS

Biscuits

Ace's Favorite Cheesy Dog Biscuits

1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour 1 1/4 cups grated cheddar cheese 1/4 pound margarine -- corn oil 1 clove garlic --crushed 1 pinch salt 1/4 cup Milk --or as needed
Grate the cheese into a bowl and let stand until it reaches room temperature. Cream the cheese with the softened margarine, garlic, salt and flour. Add enough milk to form into a ball.
Chill for 1/2 hour. Roll onto floured board. Cut into shapes and bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes or until slightly brown, and firm. Makes 2 to 3 dozen, depending on size.
Yield: "24 biscuit


Alfie And Archie's Dog Biscuits

• 2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour 1/2 cup dry milk --powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons beef fat
• 1 egg -- beaten
• 1/2 cup ice water
1. Preheat oven to 350. Lightly oil a cookie sheet. Combine flour, dry milk, salt, garlic powder and sugar. Cut in meat drippings until mixture resembles corn meal. Mix in egg. Add enough water so that mixture forms a ball.
Using your fingers, pat out dough onto cookie sheet to half inch thick. Cut with cookie cutter or knife and remove scraps. Scraps can be formed again and baked.
2. Bake 25-30 minutes. Remove from tray and cool on rack.

CONTROLLING AGGRESSIVE AND UNWANTED BEHAVIOR IN DOGS

Aggression takes a variety of forms and responds to different methods of control. Dogs of the fighting breeds can sometimes be more aggressive than their even-tempered counterparts. If your dog is sensitive to the arrival of strangers he should be trained to distinguish between friendly or neutral strangers and those with hostile intentions. Dogs have a deeply ingrained territorial defensiveness. It requires special training to teach him whether you approve or disapprove of a stranger.

If your dog was not properly socialized with other dogs when he was young he may show signs of aggressive behavior to other dogs. If kept in restricted spaces with little to occupy him, he is likely to develop behavior difficulties and in extreme cases becoming destructive and aggressive.

Corrective measures to improving aggressive behavior:

Aggression behavior to owner
Command the dog to lie down so that he becomes subservient to you. Lift its hind leg to show your dominance. Alternatively you can command your dog to stay, standing over it and lifting its front legs off the ground. Finding the loss of control intimidating it will soon accept that you are in charge.

Aggression behavior to visitors
Gradually introduce your dog to strangers so that he doesn't get confused or bewildered. By bending down to touch the dog the stranger appears to be acting in a threatening way. Request the stranger to avoid eye contact with the dog and to avoid intimidating gestures. When approaching the dog offer a hand at face level and avoid reaching down from above using jerky movements. By sitting down and giving the dog a treat while restrained on its lead the stranger will appear less intimidating. Strangers should not force themselves on a hostile or confused dog. Allow the dog to set the pace.

Aggression behavior to other dogs
If your dog was not taught when young to tolerate other animals it will be hostile to other dogs. Command the dog to sit.Take control of the situation by making it appear less intimidating. Pretend to be unconcerned about the other dog. Consequently he will realize that the other dog pose no threat.

Should the above approach be inadequate request the advice of a professional trainer.