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Glen of Imaal Terrier

Glen of Imaal Terrier
History:

Country/Date of Origin: Ireland/1700s

The Glen of Imaal these dogs were named for is in County Wicklow in the south of Ireland. Farmers there used this tough terrier as a "go to ground" dog against badgers and foxes. Its courage is legendary. The breed did not come to attention of the show world until 1933 when it was recognized by the Irish Kennel Club. To date it has not gotten the nod from the American Kennel Club although it can be shown in the miscellaneous classes.

 Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns

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Turnspit Dog

AKC Group: Miscellaneous

Breed Club: The Glen of Imaal Terrier Club

Rescue Club: The Glen of Imaal Terrier Club Rescue

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Body Type:

  • A short legged terrier with a rather long body. A typical "earth dog"
  • Height: 14 inches (at shoulder)
  • Weight: 35 pounds
  • Half pricked or rose ears are not altered
  • The gaily carried tail is docked to half its original length

Personality:

  • Uncommonly easy going for a terrier
  • Excellent with children
  • Intelligent and good natured
  • Said to "ooze" personality

Coat:

  • Medium length double coat. The outer hairs are harsh textured and wiry and the undercoat is soft
  • Colors allowed are blue, blue and tan, or wheaten. Wheaten is the most commonly seen

Health Concerns:

  • A generally healthy breed
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Tasty Tidbits:
  • If you like the pep of a terrier but dislike barking, the Glen of Imaal is the dog for you. These little tykes are silent even when facing a formidable opponent such as a badger
  • Non shedding coat makes this breed good for people with allergies
  • The short, bowed front legs of the Glen of Imaal Terrier made him ideal for working on a "dog wheel" a treadmill device that was used to churn butter or turn meat in the fire