Glen of Imaal Terrier: temperament, size, care and health

About the Glen of Imaal Terrier

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a long-bodied, low-stationed terrier with a large head, a strong jaw, and a rough coat in wheaten, blue, or brindle. It stands about 12.5 to 14 inches tall and is heavily boned, with a rope-like strength to its frame. The front legs are slightly bowed, and the whole dog has a rustic, rugged look.

The breed comes from the remote Glen of Imaal in County Wicklow, Ireland, where it was a general-purpose dog for farmers. It killed vermin, hunted foxes and badgers, and served as a farm companion. Keepers today tend to value its temperament, which is more even and less excitable than that of most terriers.

Temperament and family life

The Glen is often described as the most laid-back of the terriers. It is steady and affectionate with its family, usually tolerant with children, and happy to follow its people around the house. It matures slowly and can be playful for many years.

Strangers are met with polite interest, and the breed is a quiet watchdog that barks less than many small dogs. Many Glens get along with other dogs, though males can be competitive, and the hunting instinct is as strong as any terrier's. Small animals may be chased. The dog digs enthusiastically, so a secure, deep fence is useful.

Exercise and training

Glens need regular exercise but not as much as other terriers: a couple of good walks and play are generally enough. They enjoy tracking, agility, and earthdog trials. Overweight is a danger, since the long back is vulnerable.

Training should be patient and gentle. The breed is intelligent but not eager to please, and a Glen that feels it has been bullied will dig in its heels. Positive reinforcement, short sessions, and early socialization work well. Young dogs are slow to mature, so owners should be prepared for puppy behavior for two or three years.

Grooming and shedding

The coat is shaggy and sheds less than many double coats but is not shed-free. Combing a couple of times a week is usually enough, with hand-stripping a few times a year to remove dead hair and keep the color clear. Pet dogs are often clipped, which softens the coat.

Check the beard, keep the nails trimmed, and look in the ears. Because of the low build, the underside and legs pick up mud and burrs.

Health

Glens are fairly healthy. Progressive retinal atrophy is a known inherited eye disease with a DNA test, and hip dysplasia is reported. Degenerative myelopathy, a progressive spinal disease, and allergic skin problems occur. The long back calls for care in avoiding hard jumps, particularly in overweight dogs. Responsible breeders test eyes and screen hips and use available DNA tests.

This summary is general information only; a veterinarian is the right source for advice about one Glen of Imaal Terrier.

History

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is generally traced to the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland, where the dogs were kept by tenant farmers and soldiers stationed in the area. Local tradition holds that the type descends from dogs brought by Flemish or Hessian mercenaries and bred with local terriers, but the facts are unclear. The Irish Kennel Club recognized the breed in the 1930s. It remains uncommon outside Ireland.

Is the Glen of Imaal Terrier right for you?

A Glen suits people who want a sturdy, quiet, easygoing terrier and who can tolerate digging and some stubbornness. It is a good option for families with older children and a yard. It is not for those who want a very athletic dog or who expect a fast learner.

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a bouncier Irish dog, and the Irish Terrier is a more intense one. The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has a similar low build and mellow nature.