Glen of Imaal Terrier

CalmAffectionateBraveStubborn streakPatient with kids

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a sturdy, even-tempered dog with a quiet confidence that surprises people who expect a typical terrier. He is affectionate with his family, patient with children, and usually tolerant of other dogs, though he can be firm with small animals and may chase them. He is more thoughtful than frantic, and he tends to bond closely with his people.

Day to day, he needs regular walks, a secure yard or fenced space, and consistent training that rewards calm, steady effort. He enjoys sniffing and problem-solving games more than long runs. Short daily sessions of play and training keep him content, and he does best with a routine and plenty of time with his family.

Good for: Families with a yard, calm homes, first-time owners

Size	medium
Weight	35 lb
Height	14 in
Exercise	about 60 min a day
Shedding	low
Origin	Ireland

Before you choose a Glen of Imaal Terrier

He is independent and can be stubborn, so consistent, positive training from the start makes daily life much easier.

Living with a Glen of Imaal Terrier

Exercise

Plan on one or two daily walks plus some off-leash play in a secure area. Sniffing walks and training games suit him as well as distance.

Grooming

His harsh double coat needs weekly brushing and occasional hand-stripping or trimming to stay neat. Bathing is needed only when dirty, and he sheds lightly.

Health

The breed can be prone to certain inherited conditions, including some back and joint problems and eye issues. Ask a vet about screening and routine checkups for your dog.

Intervertebral disc disease
Hip dysplasia
Eye conditions

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

The numbers for a Glen of Imaal Terrier

Feeding, adult

2.25–3 cups a day

About 896 kcal, roughly 17 lb of dry food a month at 35–35 lb. Start here and adjust to the bag and your vet. Portion calculator →

What a year costs

$1,750–$3,000

Food about $659, plus routine vet care, parasite preventives and gear. US averages; insurance and emergencies on top.

Weather

Watch above 75°F, stop at 85°F

Coat or short walks below 32°F. Comfortable in most weather: watch pavement heat above 85°F and add a coat below freezing if the coat is short.

LIVE · New York

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Walk index

Heat, pavement and UV for your dog.

Right now

Latest dog food recalls

Aunt Millie s Bakehouse Whole Grain White Hot Dog Buns 6" Sliced 2 OUNCE. 12 unlabeled 12CT PKGS per sale unit case, product code 7502. Net. Wt. 18lbs.
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Sep 13 · Undeclared sesame

Breadman Brioche products in plastic bags: Brioche Toast, 2 lb. (1 loaf/bag), Brioche Buns, 40oz (10 buns/bag), Brioche Sliders, 50oz (25 sliders/bag), Brioche Hot Dog, 40oz (10 buns/bag)
Breadbox Co. · May 16 · Undeclared Yellow No. 5

Our Family White Hot Dog Enriched Buns, 8 count 12oz. retail unit UPC 0-70253-75107-3
Perfection Bakeries LLC · Mar 21 · undeclared sesame

All recalls →

Questions owners ask

Do Glen of Imaal Terriers shed?

They shed lightly. Their wiry coat needs regular brushing and occasional stripping or trimming to control loose hair and keep it tidy.

Can a Glen of Imaal Terrier live in an apartment?

Yes, if you can provide daily walks and playtime. He is fairly calm indoors, but he still needs regular activity and mental stimulation.

Are Glen of Imaal Terriers good with kids?

They are often good with children, being sturdy and patient. Supervise interactions with young kids, as any dog can react when startled or overwhelmed.