Glen of Imaal Terrier breed: the quietest and rarest terrier, known for its unique sitting pose

Although they are famous for their quiet hunting style – unlike most terriers – they are still terriers. Therefore, they possess a brave, fiery, and sometimes stubborn personality, with their own intelligence. The Glen of Imaal Terrier may not be as well-known as its relatives, but it is no less a wonderful companion.

The Glen of Imaal Terrier, one of the four Irish terriers, has always worked hard to become a respected and recognized dog over time, not just a couch potato. Originating from the rugged Irish countryside, there was always something for them to do. Whether hunting badgers, foxes, or otters, assisting in the kitchen as a spit turner, or working on farms, they were always active. Nowadays, they are primarily kept as family pets, but they are considered quite rare, with only a few of them left. Less than 300 individuals are registered annually in their homeland. One of their unique traits is their occasional habit of sitting on their hind legs while their front legs do not touch the ground. This pose is particularly characteristic of the Glen of Imaal Terrier.

History

The breed can trace its roots back several hundred years. The mearliest known mention dates back to 1575 when George Turbeville wrote about a dog in his work “The Noble Art of Venerie and Hunting,” naming it after the Glen of Imaal region located southeast of Knockanarrigan in County Wicklow, Ireland. Some sources suggest that Irish soldiers brought their Irish wolfhounds to the region, where they mixed with local terriers, giving rise to the Glen of Imaal Terrier known today.

These dogs were used for hunting foxes, badgers, and otters. One of their remarkable characteristics is their ability to work quietly and silently. They were also highly useful on farms, sometimes serving as watchdogs or herding dogs. Moreover, they were employed as turnspit dogs, a task where they would turn a wheel in English taverns to rotate spits. Initially, children were used for this job, but eventually, people objected to it, leading to the replacement with dogs instead.

The Glen of Imaal Terrier also excels as a family dog; however, it is still extremely rare today. The English Kennel Club has classified it as a vulnerable breed, as fewer than 300 individuals are born each year.

Breed standard

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a medium-sized dog with a moderate-length coat and considerable strength relative to its size. Its body is longer than it is tall. It has a broad head with a well-defined stop. The nose is black, and the jaw is strong, with a scissor bite. The eyes are medium-sized, brown, and rounded. Its ears are small, triangular rose ears that hang down when at rest but prick up halfway backward when the dog is alert. The neck is very strong and of moderate length. The body is long, with a deep and wide chest. In countries where it is legal, the tail is docked. The shoulders are broad and muscular. The front legs are short and slightly bent, with rounded paws. The hind legs are also short and strong. Its coat is moderately long, with soft undercoat and hard outer coat. The color can be blue, wheaten, or shades of red-gold. The height at the withers for males is a maximum of 35.5 cm, and females are slightly smaller. Their weight ranges from 14 to 16 kg. They have a life expectancy of 10 to 14 years.

Character

While perhaps slightly more restrained than other terriers, the Glen of Imaal Terrier is nonetheless bold, fiery, and prone to stubbornness. Intelligent and smart, it learns easily, as long as it sees the point in what is being asked of it. Socialization should begin as early as possible, as improperly socialized individuals may not get along well with other dogs.

Typically, it prefers the company of its family over that of other dogs, and it’s often said that it doesn’t start fights, but it usually finishes them. It doesn’t back down, aware of its own abilities, and is an extremely confident dog not prone to anxiety or shyness. True to its terrier nature, it enjoys digging, and its hunting instincts haven’t faded over time. However, it’s a very affectionate and kind companion who happily curls up in its owner’s lap at the end of the day.

Ideal environment

The Glen of Imaal Terrier feels equally at home in apartments and houses with gardens. A quiet companion, it won’t disturb the neighbors. It only barks with its deep voice when it absolutely needs to alert its owner to something, making it an excellent watchdog but not a guard dog by any means. Since it doesn’t require much exercise, it’s satisfied with a few walks a day. It’s not an ideal jogging partner because its short legs find it strenuous. However, it’s an excellent companion for car rides, and travel sickness is not typical of the breed. Most individuals enjoy water, but due to its physical characteristics, the Glen isn’t a good swimmer, so it’s advisable to provide a life jacket.

It generally gets along well with children and makes a great family dog, but being strong and sturdy, it may unintentionally knock over smaller ones. Because hunting is in its blood, it may chase smaller mammals and cats. Introducing it to cats can be managed, but it’s not advisable to try with rodents. Always keep it on a leash during walks, as it may take off after potential prey at any moment.

Care

Care for a Glen of Imaal Terrier doesn’t require much time. Without trimming, its coat is 7-10 cm long. It’s advisable to brush it with a metal comb once a week to prevent matting. Regular brushing and trimming 1-2 times a year will result in minimal shedding. Dead hairs should be removed from the neck, back, tail, and ears every 6-9 months. Bathing is only necessary if its coat becomes exceptionally dirty. Always keep the ears and eyes clean. Trim the nails if they don’t naturally wear down to an appropriate length.

Common health problems

Overall, the Glen of Imaal Terrier is a healthy and hardy breed. The primary concern is Progressive Retinal Atrophy, a eye condition that can lead to blindness by the age of 5. Genetic tests are available for breeders to screen for this disease. Allergies may also occur, manifesting with itching, skin irritation, and redness. They typically do not suffer from spinal problems common in other long-bodied breeds. Hip Dysplasia may develop, but genetic tests are available for this condition as well. Due to their weight distribution and short legs, it’s important to avoid stairs and jumping onto high surfaces during puppyhood.

(Literature: János Szinák – István Veress: A világ kutyái I., David Alderton: Kutyák)