| AKC Group: | Terrier |
| A.K.A.: | Glen |
| Functions: | Companion |
| Year of Origin: | 1600s |
| Country of Origin: | Ireland |
| Life Span (yr): | 10 - 15 |
| Colors: | Wheat, Brindle, Blue, and Blue Brindle |
| Height (Inch): | 12.5 - 14 |
| Weight (lb): | 30 - 40 |
| Size: | Medium |
| Hair Length: | Medium |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: | |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: | |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a long, short dog with a distinct looking head. It is a rather large head, but it is proportional to his body as a whole. The eyes of the Glen of Imaal Terrier are average sized and situated far apart from each other. They have a deep brown color and are round in shape. His ears can be characterized as small; they lend to his personality when they thrust forward upon hearing a noise that alerts him. They, too, are set apart. The nose of the Glen of Imaal is black, his jaw is strong, and his coat has a harsh outer layer with a softer inner layer or undercoat.
Temperament:
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is an incredibly independent breed, so much so that some may call him stubborn. He has many facets to his personality, from lively to calm, courageous to gentle. He has a superb ability to focus when he is working. The Glen of Imaal Terrier is not a barker, but will alert his family if a stranger approaches. He behaves well both in the home and while on the trail. He is great for children because he is so playful, but his hunting instinct may take over if a small pet, such as a gerbil is set free in the house…much to the gerbil’s demise.
Health:
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is one of the lucky breeds that is not plagued by an abundance of health conditions. There have been reports of eye disorders, such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy, which, depending on its form, may cause blindness; however, there have only been isolated incidents of the disease. As with most breeds, he may face hip dysplasia, especially if genetics play an unfavorable card on him. The condition leads to arthritis in the joints that can potentially affect his ability to stand and walk. He may also have skin infections, usually caused from an allergy to fleas. The Glen of Imaal Terrier is predisposed to such skin allergies.
Maintenance:
The Glen of Imaal Terrier can have an unruly coat if it is not groomed on occasion. In fact, it can grow to over four inches long if it is not trimmed. In addition, regardless of whether it is trimmed or not, it should be brushed frequently to prevent knotting and matting, and to eliminate loose fur. It is typically recommended to strip the coat of the Glen of Imaal Terrier a few times each year. Doing so will keep the coat healthy. In addition, fur will grow inside the ears. It should be removed to prevent infection or irritation. He loves to go for a walk each day, and has great fun running, chasing other animals, and playing with his toys.