The charming Irish Glen of Imaal Terrier: A small dog with a big heart
History of the Irish Glen of Imaal Terrier
The Glen of Imaal Terrier originates from the valley of the same name in County Wicklow in Ireland. This breed was originally bred as a working dog, serving as both a hunting dog and a farm dog. Their main task was to hunt and kill pests such as rats and badgers. Their small size and strong build made them perfect for these tasks. The breed has hardly changed over the centuries and is a living piece of Irish history.
Who is the Glen suitable for?
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is an adaptable dog that does well in both urban and rural environments. It is suitable for active individuals or families who want to spend a lot of time with their dog. Due to his hunting past, the Glen is alert and needs consistent training. However, it is not the best companion for first-time dog owners, as it requires a certain amount of experience in handling dogs.
Character of the Glen
The Glen is a courageous, intelligent and independent dog. He has a loving and loyal nature towards his family, but can be reserved towards strangers. With its pronounced alertness, it makes an excellent watchdog. The Glen has a strong hunting instinct, which means he may chase smaller pets. However, with the right socialization, it gets along well with other dogs and children.
Appearance of the Glen
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a small but sturdy dog, measuring 32 to 36 cm tall and weighing 14 to 16 kg. Its body is long and muscular, the legs are relatively short. The dense, medium-length coat comes in a variety of colors, including wheaten (wheat yellow), blue and brindle. The ears are medium sized and fall forward, giving the Glen a charming appearance.
Care of the Glen
The Glen has a double-layered coat that should be brushed regularly to prevent matting. The coat should be professionally trimmed once or twice a year. As the Glen tends to be overweight, it is important to ensure a balanced diet and regular exercise. His ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Good dental care is also essential.
Health of the Glen
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is generally a healthy dog breed with a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. However, there are some genetic conditions that potential owners should be aware of, such as hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Regular visits to the vet and health checks are important to detect potential problems at an early stage.
Exercise and training
The Glen needs moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks and playtime are enough to satisfy his need for exercise. As he is intelligent and curious, he loves mental challenges such as search games and obedience training. Early and consistent training is important to curb his independent spirit.
Interaction with children and other animals
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is generally good with children, especially if he is introduced to them from an early age. However, due to its hunting heritage, it can be aggressive towards smaller animals, so careful introduction and socialization are necessary. He generally gets along well with other dogs as long as he has been properly socialized.
Recognition by the FCI
The Irish Glen of Imaal Terrier is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and belongs to Group 3 (Terriers), Section 1 (High Terrier).
