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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Glen of Imaal Terrier
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is low-stationed with slightly bowed front legs to give
a mechanical advantage while digging. The harsh coat is weather-resistant. It resembles
the Welsh Corgi. The shaggy medium-length coat comes in several colors, including
blue, red, brindle or wheaten. The outer layer of the coat is rough but the undercoat
is soft. The chest is strong and broad. The head has a distinct stop and the muzzle
is tapered and round. The ears are half-rose shaped. This breed has round, chestnut
eyes and the teeth should meet in a level or scissor bite. The tail is docked to
about half its length and should be about a handhold size.
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Temperament
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Because the "no barking" rule was absolute in trials, this terrier makes a quiet
companion. They are tough, stoic and spirited when hunting, but otherwise, very
docile. Glens can be adoring with their family and many live happily with children,
but this terrier is not to be confused with the patient Golden Retriever. They respond
well to obedience training and like to be near their owner. They are feisty with
other animals and, like most terriers, can be dog aggressive. Some Glens can live
well with cats, but with vigilant training. This breed likes to dig and chase.
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Height, Weight
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Height: 14" ; Weight: 34-36 lbs.
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Health Problems
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The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a hardy breed that has few known diseases. The most
common are hip dysplasia, atopic dermatitis and progressive retinal atrophy.
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Living Conditions
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The Glen will do fine with apartment living if given regular exercise. They will
do fine without a yard. They can sleep outdoors but would rather be inside with
their owners.
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Exercise
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This breed loves to run and play but will take any exercise that its owner can give.
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Life Expectancy
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About 13-14 years
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Grooming
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The Glen is easy to groom. It needs to be stripped twice a year. Scissor clip under
the tail when needed. Pluck hair from out of the ears and trim hair on the feet.
Show dogs need more grooming. This breed sheds little or no hair.
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Origin
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Irish folklore says that the Glen Terrier was the result of a cross between the
great Celtic hounds and a mongoose, and that the offspring was saved from culling
by St. Patrick. The yarn continues that the Firbolgs, half snake and half human,
ate all the Irish babies and puppies in the land. Upon Patrick's return to Ireland,
Glens assisted St. Patrick in ridding Ireland of the snake people and the snakes.
The breed was recognized formally as recently as the 1930s. In the 1950s, Paddy
Brennan and Willie Kane, both admirers of the breed, made a concerted effort to
build its reputation and numbers. The Glen was bred to rid the home and farm of
vermin and to hunt badger and fox. Their small size made it easy for them to go
into a badger's den and attack. They are recognized by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC and UKC Terrier
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