The Glen of Imaal Terrier is one of four Terrier breeds that’s native to Ireland. The Irish developed it in the Glen of Imaal in Ireland’s County Wicklow. It was used to hunt fox and badger. The valley where they bred the Imaal Terrier was for a long time in isolation; that’s why the Glen was practically unnoticed for many years.
During the 16th century, Flemish and Lowland soldiers established residence in the area. Their low-draped French dogs intermixed with current terriers to create the breed’s model that we see today.
The Glen of Imaal Terrier received recognition in Ireland in 1933 and made its way to the United States shortly after.
This breed is a rough-and-ready worker; it’s a short-legged terrier with a long, well-built body and great substance for his slight size. The ascetically short front legs carry a curve, and its feet are sturdy and round. The breed’s tail is stout, set high, and carried merrily, and you can dock it if you see fit. The skull of the Imaal carries a slight dome outlook, and it has a strong muzzle and jaw. The breed’s ears are rose or partially prick.
Glen of Imaal Terrier Breed Facts
| Energy level |  | Watchdog ability |  |
| Exercise requirements | | Protection ability | |
| Playfulness |  | Grooming requirements | |
| Affection level |  | Cold tolerance | |
| Friendliness toward dogs | | Heat tolerance | |
| Friendliness toward other pets | | Friendliness toward strangers | |
| Ease of training | |
Temperament: This is a spirited breed; it is courageous and a loyal companion. They’re very good at relaxing after a long workday; however, they’re all business when there’s work to do. They’re active but quiet workers, and they possess a strong prey drive. Therefore, make sure they’re supervised when introduced to other dogs and cats.
Grooming: The Glen’s coat needs a thorough brushing with a slicker brush at least 1 to 2 times weekly, which will prevent matting and help to remove dead hair. Also, to keep the coat neat and preserve its hard-protective texture, it needs stripping every 6 to 9 months.
Activity level: Modest. The Glen of Imaal Terrier can live a city life. However, they enjoy long walks and hikes through the woods. It’s recommended that they’re exercised on a lead or within a fenced-up yard because they’re prone to chase after small animals, thanks to the breed’s strong prey drive.
They’re also capable of digging holes under fences; therefore, it’s a good idea to reinforce the fence. Unfortunately, this breed is not a swimmer; Therefore, they should not have access to pools. However, they’re excellent agility dogs.
Coat: The Glen’s coat is a medium-length, harsh outer coat with a soft undercoat. However, the coat on head and legs are softer.
Size: 12 ½ – 14 inches, 32–40 pounds
Group: The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a member of the Terrier Group
Color: Shades of wheaten, blue, or brindle
Life expectancy: 10-15 years
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a very rare breed. There are about six-hundred to seven hundred of these dogs registered and a few puppies.
