GLEN OF IMAAL TERRIER

Description: The Glen of Imall Terrier is a small-medium sized dog that is a sturdy little thing, they have many of the usual terrier characteristics and have a lively and happy expression about themselves. They weigh around 35 pounds and should stand around 14 inches tall at the withers. They have a double coat that should be wheaten in colour or brindle, their undercoat should be soft whereas their outer coat should be harsh to the touch. They have a relatively large head, with ears that are wide set and half pricked. They have round dark eyes that have a loving expression.

History: The origins of this dog are not known, however what is known is that they are from Ireland, and that they received their name from the Glen of Imall in County Wicklow. They are thought to be an ancient breed, but due to their isolation they are an almost unknown breed outside of the area they come from. They are fantastic hunters of fox, badgers and rat. They were not recognised by the AKC until 2004 and to this day still remain a rare breed though attempts are being made to amend this. Even in Ireland they were not first publicly presented until 1933. In recent years they have become more companion pets, rather than working dogs.

Temperament: The Glen of Imall Terrier is a lively dog that is full of sprit and they can be very devoted. They can however suffer from ‘small dog syndrome’ so they need an owner who can stop any negative behaviour in a calm manner as they do not respond well to harsh discipline. They are playful dogs and get on well with children, however they shouldn’t be left alone with smaller animals such as hamsters of gerbils as by nature they are hunters and they could get carried away. If they feel that they are the ones in charge they will try to run the household and will become stubborn and head strong. However, if properly trained they make fantastic family pets that love to learn new things and to please their owners.

Grooming: The Glen of Imall Terrier sheds little to no hair which makes grooming them pretty easy. They will need to be brushed occasionally, and the hair on their feet and underside of their tail may need to be trimmed now and then and their ears plucked. They will need to be hand stripped every 6 months, as well, and should only be bathed when they need it.

Living Conditions: They are best suited to having a garden but would do equally well in an apartment, they can be fairly active indoors and do need a good walk every day and then some extra play time on top of this.