Glen of Imaal Terrier

The least known of all terriers, the Glen of Imaal Terrier is a rough-and-ready working terrier native to Ireland. This breed was initially bred to rid the home and farm of vermin, as well as to hunt badger and fox.

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is named after the region in the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland where it was developed long ago. Known as a big dog on short legs, this breed still possesses "antique' features once common to many early terrier types.

According to the Glen of Imaal Terrier Club of America, this breed will rarely start a fight but is likely to finish it. This shows how the Glen of Imaal Terrier is quite the paradox. For instance, the Glen of Imaal Terrier can be stubborn with game but takes easily to obedience training. They may be small in statue but their guttural bark and stocky body give them the appearance of might. All of these things make the Glen of Imaal Terrier a great watchdog.

Glens have a medium length coat with a harsh texture that is either wheaten, blue or brindle.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: Longer than tall and sporting a double coat of medium length, the Glen possesses great strength and should always convey the impression of maximum substance for size of dog.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height - 12.5 - 14 measured at the highest point of the shoulder blades. Weight - About 35 pounds, however, no shall be penalized for being slightly outside the suggested weight.

Fun fact

This Glen of Imaal Terrier served as a "hamster" for turnspits in old Ireland. Meat handlers used these dogs to run in a wheel, much like the wheel of a hamster. These wheels would turn the spit on which meat was held, cooking the meat thoroughly and evenly.