Glen Of Imaal Terrier
Description
The Glen Of Imaal Terrier, often called the Glen, hails from Ireland’s rugged Wicklow region. This breed was shaped by centuries of hard work—herding livestock, hunting vermin, and even running a turnspit wheel to cook meat. They’re sturdy and compact, weighing between 32 and 40 pounds, with a wiry, medium-length coat that comes in blue brindle or wheaten shades. Glens carry a calm, steady vibe. They’re not yappy or frantic like some terriers but still hold the grit their working-dog ancestors passed down. They bond tightly with their families and can be cautious around strangers, stepping up to protect when needed. Early socializing helps them grow into confident, balanced dogs.
Grooming
The Glen’s wiry coat needs regular upkeep to stay healthy and looking right. Dead hair tends to cling, so weekly carding is a must to clear out loose strands. Use a light slicker brush gently to avoid damaging the texture. Every 8 to 12 weeks, handstripping is key—it keeps the coat’s wiry feel and rich color intact. This breed doesn’t shed much and doesn’t go through heavy seasonal coat changes, so maintenance stays steady year-round. - Card coat weekly to remove dead hair - Use slicker brush lightly and carefully - Handstrip every 8–12 weeks to maintain texture and color - Check ears and trim nails regularly - Bathe only when necessary to avoid stripping natural oils Pro tip: When handstripping, pull out only dead hairs by hand or with a stripping knife to preserve the coat’s wiry texture and vibrant blue brindle or wheaten tones.
Learn the Wiry routine:
→ Complete Wiry Grooming Guide
Walking
Glens need about 55 minutes of walking daily, split into one solid session. They’re not hyperactive but still appreciate a good stroll to stretch their legs and explore scents. A steady, moderate pace suits them best—they’ll happily sniff and check out the neighborhood without rushing. Try this routine: a 10-minute warm-up walk to get moving, followed by 35 minutes of steady walking with some sniff breaks, then a 10-minute cool-down stroll back home. This keeps them engaged and satisfied without overdoing it. Keep the pace relaxed but purposeful, and watch for signs they want to slow down or rest.
Boarding
When boarding a Glen, provide a crate sized between 36 and 42 inches—roomy enough for comfort but cozy enough to feel secure. These dogs enjoy calm, predictable routines, so staff should introduce themselves slowly and keep daily schedules consistent. Glens like two active play sessions daily, plus scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp. They’re not wild players but do enjoy interactive toys and gentle fetch. Staff should watch for their reserved nature and avoid overwhelming them with too much noise or sudden activity. A quiet spot with familiar bedding helps them settle in faster. Enrichment that taps into their natural curiosity, like scent trails or puzzle feeders, makes boarding less stressful and more enjoyable.