what they are likeGlen of Imaal Terrier temperament
Gentle and easygoing at home yet brave and determined when there is a job to do. It is less excitable and less vocal than many terriers, loves joining in family activities, and responds best to kind, consistent, reward-based training.1532
how to spot oneGlen of Imaal Terrier coat and colours
rough double coat
A medium-length harsh topcoat over a soft undercoat, which can be tidied for a neat look. The dog is sturdy and low to the ground, longer than tall, with a strong head and half-pricked or rose ears.123
Colourswheaten (light to golden red)blue brindlereddish13
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Glen of Imaal Terrier. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery 3 weeks
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery day
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 10every year
by countryIs the Glen of Imaal Terrier legal where you live?
No breed-specific rule names the Glen of Imaal Terrier in the 44 countries we check. General dangerous-dog laws still apply everywhere, and some cities keep their own lists.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksGlen of Imaal Terrier exercise needs
Moderate. The RKC suggests up to an hour a day and Purina one to two hours of walking; it can also enjoy dog sports. Keep it on a lead in unfenced areas as it likes to chase.42
the hands-on bitsGlen of Imaal Terrier grooming and care
Comb through to the skin regularly (weekly to daily) to prevent matting; the coat sheds little and is traditionally hand-stripped once or twice a year.243
where they are happiestGlen of Imaal Terrier at home
Suits country living but is happy with a small to medium garden.4
what goes in the bowlGlen of Imaal Terrier food and feeding
A complete, balanced commercial or vet-guided diet suited to the dog's size, age and activity level, with portions adjusted to keep a lean, athletic shape and fresh water always available.
who they like aroundGlen of Imaal Terrier with people and other pets
A devoted family dog that is good with children; early socialisation helps with other dogs and small pets.32
where it all beganGlen of Imaal Terrier history
Hardy farm terriers from the remote Glen of Imaal were kept to control foxes, badgers and rats, and some worked turning spits in kitchen wheels. The breed came close to disappearing, was recognised by the Irish Kennel Club in 1934, and has since spread to the UK, USA and Canada.132
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
Glens can do a "Glen sit", sitting upright on their hind legs like a meerkat.3
2
They were once used as turnspit dogs, running in a wheel to turn meat over the fire.2
3
The breed can take up to about four years to fully mature.3
4
DNA studies place the Glen closer to mastiff-type dogs than to most other terriers.3
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed is named after the Glen of Imaal, a remote valley in County Wicklow, Ireland, where it was developed.5
I start my morning with a gentle stretch and a wag of my tail. My human takes me for a leisurely walk through the fields, where I sniff every interesting scent. I spot a rabbit and give a determined chase, but I always come back when called. At home, I join the family for a game of fetch in the garden, then curl up for a nap in a sunny spot. I love being part of the action, but I'm also happy to just watch. The day ends with a cozy evening by the fire, my favorite spot.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Irish Glen of Imaal Terrier; Group 3 (Terriers), Section 1 Large and medium sized Terriers. Standard dated 20 September 2024.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Glen of Imaal Terrier, and at what times?
Feed adult Glen of Imaal Terriers at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent times help with routine, but adjust portions to keep a lean, athletic shape as recommended by your vet. Always have fresh water available.6
What should a Glen of Imaal Terrier eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a complete, balanced commercial diet or one guided by your vet, suited to your dog's size, age, and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol, onions, garlic, and macadamia nuts, keep these away from your Glen.7
How often should I bathe a Glen of Imaal Terrier?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance says at least every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty, but avoid over-bathing to protect the coat's natural oils.8Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Glen of Imaal Terrier need brushing?
Brush your Glen weekly to daily to prevent matting, as its rough double coat sheds little. Pet Wiki's plan recommends weekly brushing, and regular combing through to the skin keeps the coat healthy.243Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Glen of Imaal Terrier's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 3 weeks or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Take small amounts off at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part), and use a proper dog nail trimmer.8Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Glen of Imaal Terrier need?
Your Glen needs moderate exercise, about an hour daily, with walks and play. It enjoys dog sports too, but always keep it on a lead in unfenced areas because it likes to chase.42Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Glen of Imaal Terrier's teeth and ears?
Brush your Glen's teeth daily (or at least 2, 3 times a week) with dog toothpaste, never human toothpaste. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution, never pushing anything into the ear canal.8Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Glen of Imaal Terrier live?
Glen of Imaal Terriers typically live between 10 and 14 years, enjoying a healthy lifespan with good care.24
Is a Glen of Imaal Terrier good with children and other pets?
Yes, this breed is gentle and easygoing at home and good with children. Early socialisation helps it get along with other dogs and small pets, making it a devoted family companion.32
Can a Glen of Imaal Terrier be left alone?
It varies by individual, some Glens may tolerate short periods alone with training, but they thrive on family company. For specific advice, ask a good breeder or your vet.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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