The Glen of Imaal Terrier is the newest AKC registered Irish breed. Like three of the other breeds native to Ireland - The Kerry Blue Terrier, The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, and The Irish Terrier, The Glen of Imaal Terrier is part of the AKC Terrier Group.
Although this breed is relatively new to the world of purebred dogs in America, it's definitely not a new breed. The Glen of Imaal Terrier is named for the region where they originated, perhaps centuries ago, in the Wicklow Mountains on Ireland's eastern coast. Farmers there used the sturdy dogs to hunt, to eliminate badger and other vermin, and perform other chores. Generations passed before the appealing terriers caught the attention of Irish dog fanciers. The Irish Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1934. 
More than 40 years later, in 1975, they were recognized by the UK Kennel Club. The first Glen of Imaal Terriers were imported to the USA in the early 1980's and the first breed club for the Glen of Imaal Terriers in the US was founded in 1986.
The AKC standard describes the Glen of Imaal Terrier as "a medium sized working terrier. Longer than tall and sporting a double coat of medium length."
Males should be 12-1/2" to 14" tall, and weigh about 35 pounds. Their color can be wheaten - from a light blonde to reddish, or blue-brindle - from a light silvery-blue to a dark gray. Puppies have dark markings and deeper coloring that lightens as they mature.
The Glen has a double coat... a downy undercoat plus a shaggy outer coat. They don't shed but their coat must be "stripped" once or twice a year to remove dead hair and allow for new growth. This can be done by hand plucking or with a special "stripping knife". Regular brushing, once or twice a week, will prevent tangles and mats. They need light trimming, mostly around the neck and ears, legs and feet for a neat, well-groomed look. See Grooming Examples and Why should Glen of Imaals be Groomed?
Glens are generally healthy dogs with an average lifespan of 13 to 14 years. There is a low incidence of a few inherited conditions, such as skin allergies. There are also some instances of a more serious condition - Progressive retinal atrophy(PRA). Responsible breeders test their breeding stock in an effort to eliminate inherited disease.
Compared to the typical terrier, Glens are unusually quiet. They rarely bark without reason, but they are brave and alert and they will bark if they detect danger. They have a loud, low bark that makes them sound bigger than they really are. That's why some owners say their Glens are good watchdogs.
Terriers have a high prey drive and the Glen of Imaal Terrier is no exception. They love to hunt and chase. This can mean big trouble if you also have rabbits, hamsters or other small critters as pets. Glens must be cautiously introduced to cats... sometimes a good relationship with cats might not be possible. They must be well-socialized with other dogs early in life to prevent any problems with dominance aggression later.
 | Glen of Imaal Terriers are lively, athletic, and agile. They are competing in obedience, agility, and Earthdog trials. In spite of all that athletic ability and terrier energy, they are calm indoors. With regular exercise, they can be as happy and content living in an apartment as on a farm. They need to be with their humans... they love being part of the family and they thrive on close human contact. Glen of Imaal Terriers are people loving dogs and great family pets! |
 Irish Wolfhound |  Irish Water Spaniel |  Kerry Blue Terrier |  Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier |  Irish Terrier |  The Irish Setter |
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