What makes the Glen of Imaal Terrier Unique?
Despite being a rarity breed in most portions of the world, friendly Glen of Imaal Terriers still serve as rat-catchers on Irish farms. While this is becoming a less popular pastime for these dogs, they still make pleasant tempered family members in any home.
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Is the Glen of Imaal Terrier Right For You?
Glen of Imaal Terriers are spunky, inquisitive dogs that always up for an adventure. These active dogs are perfectly happy to spend the rest of their day curled up on the sofa as long as they have already gotten their fill of exercise. Their placid temperament indoors is a bit of contrast to the enthusiasm they show when on the hunt.
Some Glen of Imaal Terriers are known to be aggressive around other canines, particularly those of the same gender as they are themselves. Early socialization is recommended to prevent this trait from becoming problematic. These dogs are also not recommended for households that contain cats or other small pets.
In 5 Words
- Spirited
- Agile
- Courageous
- Gentle
- Loyal
Characteristics
Learn About the Glen of Imaal Terrier
Description
General Description
Glen of Imaal Terriers are moderately sized dogs that are somewhat longer than they are tall. They have muscular bodies that allow them the ability to drag even a fighting badger out of its’ den. Their short limbs are slightly bowed in the front and they move with a fluid gait. These dogs also have wide chests, proportionate heads, domed skulls, tapered muzzles, and black noses. Round, dark brown eyes are another breed feature. Glen of Imaal Terriers also have small ears that lie flat when the dogs are calm but perk up when their attention has been captured by something. Level or scissors bites are acceptable for members of this breed. In places where the practice is not illegal, these dogs may have their tails docked by half. In the past, this sturdy appendage was often used to remove Glen of Imaal Terriers from holes in which they had become stuck.
Size
Dogs of both genders stand between 12 and 14 inches (30.5 to 35.5 centimeters) tall. Members of this breed typically weigh between 30 and 40 pounds (14 and 18 kilograms).
Coat
Glen of Imaal Terriers have a double coat. The outer layer is moderately long and has a coarse texture while the inner layer is quite soft. Acceptable coat colors for members of this breed include blue, wheaten, and any form of brindle. Wheaten coated terriers may range in color from cream to red. Likewise, any shade of blue from slate to silver is considered appropriate for members of this breed.
Short History of the Glen of Imaal Terrier
Native to Ireland, Glen of Imaal Terriers were named after a valley found in their homeland. It is thought that the ancestors of these dogs may have accompanied mercenary soldiers from contention Europe to Ireland where they were crossbred with the local canine population. Originally, these terriers were used as an all-purpose farm dog and also served to hunt small game. After all, Glen of Imaal Terriers have a build that allows them to easily go into underground animal dens to retrieve their prey. Legends also state that members of this breed could be trained to run on a device rather like a hamster wheel in order to turn spits of roasting meats that would later be consumed by their human owners. Irish immigrants brought the breed with them to America during the 1930s. The Irish Kennel Club officially recognized the breed during the same decade. However, these dogs weren’t granted official status in the States until 2004, when they were acknowledged by the American Kennel Club.
Temperament
Glen of Imaal Terriers are spunky, inquisitive dogs that always up for an adventure. These active dogs are perfectly happy to spend the rest of their day curled up on the sofa as long as they have already gotten their fill of exercise. Their placid temperament indoors is a bit of contrast to the enthusiasm they show when on the hunt.
Members of this breed are devoted to their families and well-behaved among people that they know. These playful terriers make fine companions for children. However, youngsters should learn to treat the dogs with respect to prevent any misunderstandings from taking place and these dogs can be too boisterous to get along well with toddlers.
Some Glen of Imaal Terriers are known to be aggressive around other canines, particularly those of the same gender as they are themselves. Early socialization is recommended to prevent this trait from becoming problematic. These dogs are also not recommended for households that contain cats or other small pets.
Although these dogs have a deep bark that would be more suitable for a larger animal, excessive barking is not usually a problem because Glen of Imaal Terriers were bred to work quietly. Owners should note that these dogs also like to dig and, as a result, they are probably not a good breed for anyone who would mind holes in their lawn.
Caring for Your Glen of Imaal Terrier
General Health
On average, members of this breed can live 13 or more years. However, Glen of Imaal Terrier can still suffer from health problem such as progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia. Owners are advised to get eye and hip tests done on their dogs so that any ailments can be identified and treated before they become problematic.
Care
Daily
All dogs need exercise on a daily basis and this breed is no exception. Glen of Imaal Terriers should be kept on a short leash as they have a tendency to get into mischief otherwise.
Weekly
Glen of Imaal Terriers will need to be brushed once or twice per week. It is further recommended that owners regularly cleanse their dog’s teeth in order to keep it in good oral health.
Monthly
All pets require flea, heartworm, and tick prevention medications to keep them healthy. Most, if not all, products that are on the market today are typically administered on a monthly basis.
Grooming & Bathing
Glen of Imaal Terriers only require baths when they get dirty. However, it is a good idea to regularly trim their toenails and clean out their ears. These dogs will also need to have their coats stripped two times a year.
Exercise & Training
Members of this breed need obedience training from a young age so that behavior problems don’t arise later in life. Glen of Imaal Terriers learn best when positive reinforcement techniques are used but may refuse to listen if they are punished too harshly for mistakes. This breed is smart and tends to learn quickly but, like most terriers, they may not always do as they are asked.
These dogs will also have to be exposed to many different situations from their puppyhood in order to learn the appropriate responses to unfamiliar people, animals, and situations. It is nonetheless in their owner’s best interests to make sure these dogs are supervised around small children and other animals.
This breed also needs space to run and play but, due to their overwhelming prey drive, these dogs simply won’t behave well if taken to a dog park. Therefore, Glen of Imaal Terriers must have access to a securely fenced in area where they can spend some time enjoying themselves.
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