Glen of Imaal Terrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Glen of Imaal Terrier comes from a remote valley in County Wicklow, Ireland. It is a sturdy, long-bodied dog with a calm temperament and a hardy build, developed to hunt badgers and foxes and turn a spit in the kitchen.

Origins and appearance

The breed developed in the Glen of Imaal, where farmers needed a dog that could work vermin and also help with household chores. They were famously used as turnspit dogs, running on a wheel to turn meat. Glens are long-bodied and short-legged, with a large head, rose or half-prick ears, strong bone and a medium-length, harsh outer coat over a soft undercoat in wheaten, blue or brindle.

Temperament

Glens are steady, loyal and good-natured. They are less excitable than many terriers, and often described as a quiet terrier. They bond closely with family and are usually good with children. They are tenacious and can be stubborn, and they may be assertive toward other dogs. They mature slowly, often retaining puppy behavior for two or three years.

Exercise

They need around an hour of daily exercise, such as walks and play. They enjoy tracking, earthdog work and agility, though jumping should be limited because of their long backs. Provide a secure yard and a leash outdoors, since prey drive is strong. See recall training guide.

Training

They are intelligent and sometimes slow to respond. Use consistent, patient and positive training, with rewards and varied games. Early socialization is important. Avoid heavy-handed methods.

Coat and grooming

The coat needs brushing weekly and hand-stripping a few times a year. See wire coat dog grooming guide. Clean the beard and check ears. Trim nails and brush teeth. Shedding is light.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Progressive retinal atrophy, with a DNA test
• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Cardiac problems
• Skin allergies. See dog skin allergies
• Intervertebral disc disease because of the long back
• Obesity

Living with a Glen of Imaal Terrier

They suit houses with fenced yards. They are good family dogs and enjoy company. They are quieter than many terriers but still alert.

Behavior and daily management

A Glen needs patient training and daily exercise. Provide a digging area, chew toys and scent games, and teach calm greetings. Supervise around small pets. They are slow to mature, so patience pays.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are sturdy but should avoid jumping from heights. Socialize early, handle the coat and begin training. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for grooming, vet care and screening. Be prepared to wait for a puppy. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

Glens tolerate cool, wet weather but need shade in heat. They travel well and are comfortable in many settings.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include overexercising puppies, skipping coat care and underestimating slow maturity.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about the retinal atrophy DNA test, hip scores and the parents' temperaments.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Glen of Imaal Terrier suits owners who want a steady, hardy and rare terrier. It may not suit someone wanting an eager obedience dog. For a related Irish terrier, see the Irish Terrier.

Training notes

Glens are thoughtful and can be slow to respond, which owners sometimes mistake for stubbornness. Use patient repetition, small food rewards and calm consistency. Keep sessions short, since they may sulk or switch off if pushed. Because they mature late, expect adolescent behavior for years, and keep training fun and steady rather than strict.

What the breed is like indoors

Indoors, a Glen is a calm, steady companion that likes to be near the family and will often follow you to the kitchen. Many snore, and most settle quickly after exercise. They enjoy a sturdy bed and a chew toy.

The takeaway

Glens are sturdy, steady and rare, and they need patience, exercise and grooming.