GROUP 2 - TERRIERS

Brief History
This hardy Terrier owes its name to the Glen of Imaal in the County of West Wicklow where the breed was developed. The “Glen” was needed to hunt badger, watch over the cottager’s crops, head the stock or work the turnspit wheels. Likely to have been derived from the Irish Wolfhound, Kerry Blue Terrier and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, the West Wicklow people kept the little Terrier a secret until it was first seen publicly at an Irish Dog Show in 1933. The following year the Glen was given full recognition by the Irish Kennel Club The Glen of Imaal Terrier was first recognised in 1983 in Australia.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. The average life span is 16 years. Some live much longer.

Temperament
Loyal, calm, a spirited hunter.
The Glen of Imaal Terrier would happily spend most of its days lying around. However, they are a keen hunter, and this is a very strong instinct that still lives on in the Glen of Imaal today. Chickens, rabbits and guinea pigs will need to be well fenced. Tough and game when hunting, they are otherwise mild-mannered and calm indoors, although occasionally they may try to dominate and can be stubborn. They are not fighters unless provoked by other dogs. A well-trained Glen is intelligent, patient with all family members and loyal to owners and make fine family pets. As with all dogs, young children and pets should always be supervised when together. Glens will give a deep bark if they detect danger, but rarely bark without a reason. They love to dig and chase.

General Breed Description
The Glen is not a glamour breed. Heavy for his short height, he epitomises a rugged working terrier. Broad and low and longer in body than he is tall, he is distinguished by short front legs and feet that turn out and his back rises gently towards his strong rear end. He has a strong jaw. His ears are often fold back. The Glens has a medium length, harsh coat that can get shaggy and comes in the colours blue, brindle and wheaten.

Coat and Care Requirements
While a weekly grooming is required to manage knots, the Glen’s harsh coat should be stripped or clipped twice a year and then he will not shed. A daily walk is recommended for the Glen both for his fitness and mental stimulation. As he is designed to dig, a sandpit can give him hours of entertainment.

Size
Height: 35-36cms (14ins).

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed health and what health testing the breeder does.

Suitability
The Glen of Imaal Terrier, is suited to an apartment or small home with good fences. Their exercise requirements are low. They can be an active, outside dog and a calm, inside dog. A well-trained Glen is a peaceful and gentle dog to be with a family. Generally good with families, the Glen must know his place in the ‘’pecking order’’. The Glen of Imaal Terrier will usually get on with other dogs on a daily walk. Keeping other small animals with a Glen may be a challenge.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/46