Glen of Imaal Terrier
Group 2: Terriers
Height: 35-36 cm
Energy Level: Moderate to high
Original Function: Hunting
Lifespan: 10 – 14 yrs
Recommended for: Active people & families.
Note: Not many in Australia.
About This Breed
The Glen of Imaal (pronounced E-Mahl) Terrier originated in Ireland, in the glen of Imaal of County Wicklow. They were developed as a general purpose farm dog, to guard and work stock, eradicate vermin, and to hunt fox, badger, otter, mink, etc.
For generations the farmers bred the characteristics of a large breed into a small frame. This scrappy terrier was developed as a game working dog to destroy vermin. They are quite fearless and impervious to pain when working. They are one of the few breeds of dog that is bold enough to face a badger in its den and bring it to ground.
When not working they are a tender hearted dog devoted to his family. They are intelligent, quick to learn, and quick to respond, very playful at times and do not demand constant attention from its owner. They tend to always be aware of the whereabouts of their owners and hate to be separated from their families. Like most terrier breeds, a few puppies will need to be discouraged from nipping and jumping up.
General Characteristics
Appearance: Medium sized Body longer than high, short legged. Head is a good width & fair length with powerful foreface. Muzzle to taper towards nose. Nose black. Medium sized, round brown eyes. Ears are small, rose shaped or half pricked when alert.
Temperament: Gentle, docile game, spirited
Colour: Blue, Brindle and Wheaten (all shades).
Grooming: Minimal grooming, simply give them a good brushing once a week or so. The coat grows to 3-4 inches in length. This is a breed that does not shed, when the hairs reach their maximum length, they will be removed during regular grooming sessions. They do grow hair down the ear channel and this hair needs to be plucked out regularly or you will be troubled with ear infections.
Coat: Medium length, of harsh texture with soft undercoat. Coat may be tidied to present a neat outline.
Exercise: They loves to exercise, yet they are usually calm inside the smallest of apartments, provided they are regularly allowed to stretch their legs. They can easily go for very long walks.
Health: This breed does not have any known genetic disorders. Since this a long backed breed, in considering a puppy purchase, they should not be over long, nor sway or roach backed. The crooked front refers to the front legs. They should turn out only slightly and should not be exaggerated.
They like to eat and get fat easily.