The Irish Glen Imaal Terrier, also known as Wicklow Terrier or simply Glen, is one of the four Irish terrier dog breeds. It is considered by the Kennel Club as one of the rarest breeds in the world and also a vulnerable native breed (less than 300 puppies are born each year).
This breed was developed in the 16th century, during the reign of Elizabeth I of England and Ireland, by crossbreeding hounds brought by soldiers in the Glen of Imaal, Wicklow County with Irish terriers. This distinctive and strong working dog was used for herding, hunting, removing vermin and reportedly even as a turnspit dog. Surprisingly, this breed is no longer found nowadays in Glen of Imaal, because this remote valley is used by the Irish army as a firing range.
In terms of general appearance, the Irish Glen Imaal Terrier is deemed a dwarf ancient breed, with a muscular body, slightly longer than it is tall, sturdy chest, a well-proportioned head, small-sized erect ears, brown and warm eyes and very short but powerful legs, which make it hold its ground even against a larger dog.
The breed standard states an average height of 12-14 inches and an average weight of 34-45 pounds. This petite dog has a medium-length, wavy and harsh outer coat and a soft undercoat. Unlike other Irish terriers, it is not defined by the color of its coat, which can be blue, brindle or wheaten with black highlights, which usually start to fade as they become adults. Due to the fact that it has three growing stages, this breed reaches full maturity in about four years.
These small dogs, which think they are bigger than they look, are highly intelligent, energetic when they want to play, persevering when hunting, loyal and docile with their family members and very fun to have around the house. This breed makes an excellent, gentle and cute playmate for children. It gets along well with other dogs and smaller pets - if properly socialized from an early age, because this dwarf breed has an innate prey drive.
These dogs were bred to be quiet when hunting small game, but they can get pretty vocal when they hear other dogs barking or sense an intruder. They also make great watchdogs, despite their small size, because they are fearless and their deep and powerful voice resembles that of much larger dogs, enough to scare anyone away from the property of their family.
This breed is suitable for living in an apartment, especially since it does not molt, like all terriers, and it does not require housebreaking. These dogs need their daily walk, preferably on a leash to prevent them from wandering off and getting hit by a car. These dogs should not be left alone near a lake or pool, because they are not good swimmers and they might drown. They are also good diggers, so if kept in a fenced courtyard, make sure you have a foundation around its edge.
In terms of grooming, they require regular weekly brushing to prevent matting. Their life expectancy exceeds 15 years, because they are a sturdy breed with no inherited diseases. After the age of 1 year, they should be fed a diet based on low protein for optimum health.
Adopt a petite, lovely, affectionate and devoted Irish Glen Imaal Terrier and you can be the proud owner of one of the rarest breeds in the world, with a wonderful personality.
