They are bred every season until they are four or five years old, receive little or no veterinary attention, are given only enough food to keep them alive, and then are euthanized, shot, or bludgeoned to death when they can no longer produce puppies. Poor genetics Kerries bred by responsible breeders have few genetic problems. The parents of pet store puppies have not been screened by OFA for hip dysplasia, or been certified by CERF against genetic eye diseases. Neither have they been tested for Factor IX, von Willibrands, thyroid, or had any other tests for genetic abnormalities. Indiscriminate breeding in puppy mills creates serious health risks, as well as serious behavior problems.
Puppy mills have no incentive to bred selectively to improve the breed.
And they bear little resemblance to the breed standard adopted by the AKC, put forth by the United States Kerry Blue Terrier Club. No support Pet stores won't help you match your life style with a particular breed. They will sell you whatever you like. A respectable breeder provides all that, and much more. It is heartbreaking to see a puppy sitting lonely and possibly ill in a pet shop display cage.