Kerry Blue Terrier. General Appearance: The Kerry Blue Terrier has an imposing and well-proportioned appearance, with a well-developed trunk and typical terrier style. It has a well built and muscular body. History: As with other Irish terrier breeds, the Kerry Blue is presumed to have lived in Ireland for centuries, but due to its humble origins as a rat hunter and farm dog, there are very few references prior to the 20th century. It is likely that the first mention of Kerry Blue in the literature dates back to 1847: the author describes a bluish slate in color dog with darker patches. This dog is supposed to have been very common in Kerry, Ireland, but has also spread to other counties. Kerry Blue did not appear on the show ring until 1913 and the relative Club was founded in Dublin in 1920. Kerry Blue quickly became so popular (it was the mascot of the Irish Patriots) that within a short time there were four clubs promoting it; between 1922 and 1924 these clubs sponsored no less than six exhibitions and six field trials. By about 1928, this terrier so admired for its soft, bluish coat was gaining worldwide popularity, and its reputation as an excellent working and companion dog agreed with the judgment that the breed was "close to perfection".