MASTERCLASS

Kerry Blue Terrier

ALICIA FRAGIADAKIS

FRANK

Alicia takes us through a scissored show-trim on Frank, the Kerry Blue Terrier. Kerry Blues have thick coats and very particular breed standards. Alicia gives us an in-depth look at the specifics.

PART 1 Scissoring the body, and how to produce a well-sprung rib

PART 2 The head study. Alicia takes us through the differing characteristics of the Kerry Blue Terrier

PART 3 Scissoring the hind legs, the rear and the underline

PART 4 Shaping the front legs and feet. Alicia polishes off the final look

Download the study notes for this tutorial here. You can make you own notes down the side as you watch.

Breed Standard at Dogs Australia

Study Notes | Key Concepts

    • 8” straight scissors (standard and heavy-duty for thick coat)

    • 8” curved scissors

    • Thinners and chunkers

    • Finishing comb

    • 5-in-1 clippers with #10, #15, and #30 blades

    • OMG Spray (Plush Puppy)

    • Top line must be level and scissored short to reflect breed strength.

    • Spring of rib is essential; ribs should be subtly rounded using curved scissors.

    • Loin is trimmed slightly shorter to enhance definition and rear angulation.

    • Underlines are trimmed to suggest substance without exaggeration.

    • Rear shaping emphasises well-bent stifles and muscular appearance.

    • Legs are trimmed into strong cylinders.

    • Carrot tail styling: wide at the base, tapering to a fine point.

    • Legs must be cylindrical, straight down from the elbow to paw.

    • Moderate chest presentation—not flat like a Wire Fox Terrier but not overly full.

    • Crest and neck are tapered to highlight length and balance with the rear.

    • Use a #15 blade on the face from eye socket back, carefully maintaining symmetry.

    • Head shape is narrower than a Schnauzer and shorter than a Wire Fox.

    • Beard is trimmed to lip line to lengthen the foreface visually.

    • Ears are clipped with #30 (inside) and #15 (outside), edged tightly with scissors.

    • Visual balance across the entire groom is crucial for show presentation.

    • Final check includes adjusting hair volume and reshaping where needed.

    • A spritz of OMG restores the natural wave and smooths the finish.