Anyone interested in bringing a Glen into their lives are encouraged to meet one in person. They are usually bigger then people think and more muscular then expected.
History and Origin: During the years of (1500-1600) and during the reign of Queen Elizabeth the First, mercenary soldiers were used to quell a rebellion in Ireland, in the County Wicklow region. After the war, the soldiers settled in the Glen of Imaal (a community south of Dublin. The soldiers bred their low slung hounds with local terriers, keeping the smaller ones aside and breeding them, eventually creating the Glen of Imaal Terrier. The Glen is one of the original Irish terrier breeds, and has not changed much in the last 300 years.
The breed was used to rid the area of foxes, rats, otters, European badgers, as well as being a good farm dog for herding and as a reliable companion dog.
The Glen of Imaal Terrier was officially recognized by the AKC in 2004, and by the CKC in 2016.
General Appearance: strong and sturdy, heavily muscled, thick and robust with little fanciness, rather a plain and scruffy looking canine. It has a LARGE head, with rose or semi-prick ears, round, dark brown eyes, and bites is scissor or level. The body is longer then tall, with a ratio of 5:3, legs are short, feet turned out in the front. Back line rises slightly towards rear quarters. Tail may be docked or natural. Short, rather disheveled looking, with a double coat. The under coat is soft, while to outer coat is coarse and more wiry.
Size: 13-14 inches tall at the shoulders.
Weight: about 35 lbs, with males being slightly heavier. Many champion males are over 40 lbs, as long as the ratio is ok, and they are not visibly overweight, that is not a fault.
Coat and Colour: Coat is harsh, with soft undercoat. Colours are Wheaten: (blonde or cream to red) Blue: may be brindled (stripped) Regular brushing is all that is required so the dog is always looking neat and to prevent matting around neck and ears. Low shedding. Show dogs are hand stripped only to keep the coat harsh.
Feed: feed a quality kibble twice daily. They are good eaters and easy keepers.
Activity: a tough and sturdy breed that will enjoy walks on lead or exercise in a fenced area. They are powerful diggers and have a surprisingly deep bark.They will dig and "go to ground" in search of vermin (mice, moles, etc). The heavily muscled Glen is surprisingly fast and agile, spirited and playful. He likes vigorous games and long walks and must be on-leash. If unleashed, it must be in a safe, enclosed area. The Glen is a hunter and chaser. The Glen typically will not start a fight, but they will not back down. The WILL finish the fight.
Temperament: while they are usually calm and docile, they are also a bold and quite fearless breed. Feisty, but also very family oriented, devoted, loyal and sweet natured. Good with children, supervised, as they are very strong and live by "terrier rules". As they have a low center of gravity, and tremendous strength, the Glen of Imaal Terrier an easily knock you over or tow you along the street unless you teach them how to walk properly on a leash.
The Glen is extremely loyal, and wants to be with you. They love to rest their head on your lap or feet, and often are found underfoot. The general nature is patient, laid-back, and undemanding, unusual for a terrier. They are known as the "un-terrier'.
Training and Obedience: intelligent and trainable but also stubborn. Will chase quarry. Very high prey drive. Not recommended with other small pets, such as cats, rabbits, racoons, guinea pigs, rats, hamsters, etc.
Early socialization and owners with control and attentiveness is recommended. The Glen's easily have their feeling hurt, so only positive training should ever be used to train them. They will remember a bad experience forever. Most Glens are happy to meet other dogs, when properly introduced. They have the usual stubborn character of a terrier, but are quite motivated by food and praise.
They require a owner who is consistent in training, as you do not want to live in a home under "terrier rules".
Performance events include barn hunt, earth dog, trick dog, scent trials, sprinter, obedience, rally and agility. They can also earn other certificates such as Canine Good Neighbour, etc.
Interested puppy purchasers are encouraged to inquire about health clearances and can expect to receive detailed, honest information from responsible breeders.
Created with thanks and permission from For the Love of Purebred Dogs
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