The Glen of Imaal Terrier comes from Ireland where she was used to hunt foxes and badgers and keep farms free of vermin. She is a short legged dog designed to go down burrows after critters. She is a quiet dog, rarely barking, but she makes a good watch dog and guard dog. She is full of personality, very intelligent and great at obedience. She can live in an apartment or home as her exercise needs are negotiable. A properly fenced in yard would be great but keep in mind that she is a digger and will take off after a chase. She barely sheds so allergy sufferers may consider her. She is said to be good with dogs and children especially if she is socialized at an early age. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog. She may mistake your cat for vermin and give chase. She is a genetically healthy breed and may be difficult to find in the United States.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Glen of Imaal Terrier is 12 to 14 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 34 to 36 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Glen of Imaal Terrier is no exception. Although known to be extremely healthy, be on the look out for Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness), skin problems and over eating. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The Glen of Imaal Terrier has a little or no shedding medium length coat with harsh outer texture and soft undercoat. She will need to be professionally groomed several times a year. Her coat needs to be stripped twice a year or more, her ear canals checked for hair, and the pads of her feet clipped of hair.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

Life Span

The Glen of Imaal Terrier can live between 10 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The Glen of Imaal Terrier hail from southern Ireland, the Wicklow Mountains in particular. They were probably bred from the Irish Terrier, Kerry Blue Terrier and the Soft Coated Wheaton Terrier. They were bred to hunt and also kill vermin around the farm, especially ground dwellers.. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 2004.

Some Registries