Side-by-side comparison: temperament, exercise, grooming, health, and cost of ownership.
An all-purpose Irish farm dog with a distinctive soft, wavy blue-gray coat that doesn't shed. Kerry Blues are spirited, people-oriented terriers that excel at everything from herding to companionship.
One of the most intelligent dog breeds, the Poodle combines elegance with athleticism. Their hypoallergenic curly coat and keen mind make them ideal for allergy sufferers who want a trainable companion.
Quick Answer
Choose Kerry Blue Terrier if you want a great companion. Choose Poodle if you want easier to train.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Attribute
Poodle
Size
Weight
Height
Lifespan
Trainability
Energy
Good with Kids
Shedding
Grooming
Apartment
Health
Price
Poodle is generally easier to train.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Poodle
Trainability
Intelligence
Training difficulty is a major difference. The Poodle (5/5) is eager to please and picks up commands quickly — one of the most trainable breeds out there.
Both breeds are similarly family-friendly.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Poodle
Good with Kids
Good with Dogs
Strangers
Both breeds score 4/5 with children, making them equally suitable for families. Either breed would make an excellent family dog.
Kerry Blue Terrier is less expensive to own annually.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Poodle
Both breeds cost a similar amount upfront — $1,000–$2,500 for a Kerry Blue Terrier versus $1,000–$3,000 for a Poodle. Where the real cost differences emerge is in ongoing expenses.
Poodle is the larger breed; Kerry Blue Terrier is more compact.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Poodle
Weight (kg)
Height (cm)
There's a noticeable but not extreme size difference. The Poodle (18–32 kg (40–71 lbs)) is somewhat heftier than the Kerry Blue Terrier (15–18 kg (33–40 lbs)).
Both breeds have similar temperaments.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Poodle
Playfulness
Barking Level
Energy
When you live with a Kerry Blue Terrier, you'll notice their spirited, loyal and people-oriented character in everything they do. A Poodle, by contrast, shows a intelligent, elegant and athletic nature.
Both breeds have similar exercise requirements.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Poodle
Energy Level
Exercise Needs
Apartment Friendly
Exercise won't be the deciding factor here — both the Kerry Blue Terrier and Poodle need high daily activity (4/5). Both are athletic breeds that thrive with active owners.
Both breeds have similar grooming needs.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Poodle
Shedding
Grooming Needs
Both breeds shed at the same rate (1/5), so fur management will be identical for either choice. Neither breed will leave much hair around the house.
Both breeds have similar health profiles.
Kerry Blue Terrier
Poodle
Lifespan (years)
Health Robustness
Both breeds have comparable lifespans — 12–15 years for the Kerry Blue Terrier and 12–15 years for the Poodle. You can expect a similar length of companionship from either breed, all else being equal.
Neither breed is objectively "better" — it depends on your priorities. Choose the Poodle if you prioritize easier to train (5/5 vs 3/5).
Question 1 of 3
Do you have children at home?
The Kerry Blue Terrier and Poodle are both popular breeds, but they suit different lifestyles. The key differences: Poodle is notably easier to train. Annual ownership costs are lower for the Kerry Blue Terrier by roughly $300/year.
Choose Kerry Blue Terrier if...
Choose Poodle if...
Neither may be right if...
Both the Kerry Blue Terrier and Poodle have high energy needs (4/5 and 4/5 respectively). If you live in a small apartment without park access or can't commit to 60+ minutes of daily exercise, consider a lower-energy breed like a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or Shih Tzu instead.
Looking for more options?
The Kerry Blue Terrier scores 4/5 for being good with kids, tying with the Poodle at 4/5. The Kerry Blue Terrier is specifically recommended for families.
The Poodle is easier to train, scoring 5/5 versus the Kerry Blue Terrier's 3/5. The Poodle's eagerness to please makes training sessions more productive.
A Kerry Blue Terrier puppy costs $1,000–$2,500 while a Poodle costs $1,000–$3,000. Annual maintenance runs about $1,390 for the Kerry Blue Terrier and $1,650 for the Poodle. The Poodle costs more to maintain annually.
The Kerry Blue Terrier lives 12–15 years on average, while the Poodle lives 12–15 years. Both breeds have similar lifespans. Proper diet, exercise, and regular vet care help maximize lifespan for either breed.
The Kerry Blue Terrier is equally suited for apartments (3/5) as the Poodle (3/5). It can manage in an apartment with enough exercise.