Scruffy and sturdy, Glen of Imaal Terriers pack a lot of personality into a terrier frame. (And that's saying a lot. We're talking terriers, after all.) This breed got its start on the farms and hunting fields of Ireland — they're named for a valley in the Wicklow Mountains. Nowadays, these dogs work as family pets and companions.
Originally from Ireland, this medium-sized and medium-energy breed can grow to between 32-40 pounds and lives an average of 10-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Terrier group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | Ireland |
| Breed group | Terrier |
| Average lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Bark factor | Rarely barks, if ever |
| AKC Ranking | N/A |
| Family | Terrier |
| Date of origin | Indigenous |
| Original function | All-around farm dog |
| Today's function | Earthdog trials |
| Average size of male | Height: 12.5 - 14 Weight: 35 |
| Average size of female | Height: 12.5 - 14 Weight: 35 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Affection level | Very affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Hard to train |
| Watchdog ability | Low |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Low tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A GLEN OF IMAAL TERRIER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Glen of Imaal Terriers are gentle, playful, and affectionate. With socialization and supervision, your Glen of Imaal Terrier will get along with children and other dogs, but they're not the best choice for homes with cats or other small pets.
WHAT IS GLEN OF IMAAL TERRIER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This is a strong, scrappy, and spirited breed. Your Glen of Imaal Terrier won't need to run for miles every day, but plan for daily walks and games. They do like to romp, dig, and explore.
Though brave, they are not particularly vigilant or protective. Glen of Imaal Terriers are quiet for terriers.
They're not the best dog park citizens, as they have a tendency to chase and harry other dogs. Their strong prey drive makes them poor candidates for off-leash play outside a well-fenced area. However, Glen of Imaal Terriers are great competitors in a number of dog sports, including earthdog events, agility, tracking, rally, obedience, and coursing ability.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A GLEN OF IMAAL TERRIER?
Glen of Imaal Terriers are a biddable breed. Start early and be patient and consistent with your pup. Like many smarty pups, these dogs can get bored with repetition, so mix it up and keep your furry friend on his toes.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO GLEN OF IMAAL TERRIERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
A Glen of Imaal Terriers have a harsh, medium-length, wiry double coat. The undercoat is soft.
Glen of Imaal Terriers are seasonal shedders who don't require much in the way of grooming. Plan for weekly brushing, occasional clipping, and baths as needed. If you're planning to show this dog, schedule hand-stripping every six months. Otherwise, home haircuts and trimming between the paws and under the tail and ears should do the trick.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO GLEN OF IMAAL TERRIERS HAVE?
Glen of Imaal Terriers are an overall healthy breed. Some develop eye ailments or hip dysplasia.
