Common Diseases and Disorders
In general, the Kerry blue terrier is a healthy dog with few medical concerns. However, the following diseases or disorders have been reported:
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a disease that causes nerve cells at the back of the eye to degenerate. The condition usually begins in older pets and can lead to blindness.
Cataracts cause a loss of the normal transparency of the lens of the eye. The problem can occur in one or both eyes and can lead to blindness.
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a disorder of the eye that results when tear production is decreased.
Entropion is a problem with the eyelid that causes inward rolling. Lashes on the edge of the eyelid irritate the surface of the eyeball and may lead to more serious problems.
In addition, the following have also been reported in the Kerry blue
Patent ductus arteriosis (PDA) is a congenital birth defect caused by a blood vessel that normally closes after birth, but remains open resulting in the passage of extra volumes of blood into the lungs.
conjunctivitis, allergies, fatty tumors, blood clotting abnormalities, XX sex reversal and cerebellar abiotrophy, a progressive nervous system abnormality that begins with incoordination and progresses until the dog is completely incapacitated.
Life Span
The life span of the Kerry blue terrier is approximately 14 to 16 years and the breed is spry to the very end.
We realize that each dog is unique and may display other characteristics. This profile provides generally accepted breed information only.
