Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 25th February 2026
Glen of Imaal Terrier
By
Dr. Sergey Uhanov
Last updated: 25th February 2026
Bred for hunting badgers and foxes, and ridding the homes of rodents, the Glen of Imaal Terrier is a breed of small-sized dogs that evolved in the remote Irish valley, the Glen of Imaal, in Wicklow. It has a scruffy appearance and comes with a broad head, brown eyes, and small ears that are half pricked or rose when alert. It is characterized by slightly bowed front legs, strong loin, muscular hindquarters, and high-set docked tail.
Glen of Imaal Terrier Pictures
Quick Information
| Other Names | Wicklow Terrier, Irish Glen of Imaal Terrier |
| Nicknames | Glennie, Glen |
| Coat | Medium length, harsh, wiry, topcoat; short, soft undercoat |
| Color | Wheaten, blue, and brindle, including cream, red, silver, slate |
| Breed Type | Purebred |
| Category | Terrier |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Weight | 32-40 lbs |
| Size | Small |
| Height | 12-14 inches |
| Shedding | Seasonal, low |
| Size of Litter | 3-5 puppies on average |
| Temperament | Spirited, agile, loyal, courageous; gentler than most terriers |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Good with Children | Yes, with supervision |
| Barking | Occasional |
| Country Originated in | Ireland |
| Competitive Registration/ Qualification Information | APRI, ACR, ANKC, ACA, CET, CKC, DRA, KCGB, FCI, NKC, NZKC, AKC, KC (UK) |
Video: Glen of Imaal Terriers Playing
Other Similar Breeds
History
Dog enthusiasts today believe that these terriers might have originated as a cross between local breeds (mostly terriers) and dogs imported by early settlers who served in Queen Elizabeth’s army. Owing to their spirited nature, the Glen was commonly used as a versatile hunter and was also known for working as a spit dog, running on turnspits to cook meat.
During the mid-1800s, the Wicklow Terriers started appearing in dog shows, and in 1870, a Glennie named Stinger won the competition in Lisburn. While the Irish Glen of Imaal Terrier Club was set up in 1933, the breed was acknowledged by the Irish Kennel Club in 1934. It gained recognition from the American Kennel Club in 2004.
Temperament and Behavior
Owing to its tenacity and strong hunting instincts, the modern Glen, like its ancestors, enjoys chasing small animals including squirrels and household cats and will not hesitate to dig up your yard while hunting rodents. Although it has a hunter’s heart, its affectionate nature and loyalty to its family members make it a delightful companion dog.
Being brave and alert by nature, the Glen of Imaal Terrier does a great job in watching and protecting its territory. It may get itself into trouble with other dogs because of its feisty and determined personality. Although under normal circumstances the Glen does not attack another dog, it will never back down once it is threatened or provoked.
Care
Exercise
The Glen needs daily activity. Walking briskly for 30 minutes or participating in dog agility will help in burning off its energy. It can keep itself entertained by romping around or playing with children in the family.
Grooming
Maintaining the Glen’s coat is easy. You need to brush its fur one or two times a week to keep it from tangling. Bathe it using a quality dog shampoo whenever its coat smells bad. If your Glen participates in dog shows, you may shorten its coat using a stripping knife.
Health Problems
Glens are susceptible to some health conditions including progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, skin itching, allergies, and achondroplasia.
Training
Since the Glens are an intelligent breed, training is easy. However, make sure that you keep it interesting. Repetitive training can bore your dog, compelling it to show its stubborn streak.
Socialization
Familiarize your Wicklow Terrier with other dogs, preferably in puppyhood, so that it can learn to be friendly with them. Enroll your pup in training classes where it will have the chance to play, learn, and bond with each other.
Controlling the Digging Problem
Since a Glen is instinctively familiar with digging, you should try and control this behavior instead of stopping it. Giving the Glen puppies obedience training by teaching them to follow commands might help in disciplining your dog a little if not completely. It is also essential to set up a designated place in the yard so that it does not cause any harm to your flower beds.
Feeding
Serve your Glennie about 2 cups of quality dry dog food per day. Make sure the commercial food you give contains chicken, fish, lamb, vegetables, and fruits as the main ingredients.
Interesting Facts
- Although the Glen is not adept at swimming because of its muscular body and short legs, some individuals have been trained to work in water.
FAQ’s
