Glen of Imaal Terrier Dog Breed Information, Pictures, Characteristics & Facts

Vets can detect PRA years before the dog shows any signs of blindness. If you’re buying a puppy, look for a reputable breeder who has her dogs’ eyes tested and certified on a yearly basis. This powerful terrier was originally bred to be a tenacious hunter of fox, badger, and rodents, even pursuing his prey underground.

Some dogs are perpetual puppies — always begging for a game — while others are more serious and sedate. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Begin accustoming your Glen to being brushed and examined when he’s a puppy. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth.

Stripping helps Glens maintain the coarse coat that show judges like to see in terriers. If you’re buying a puppy, find a good breeder who will show you health clearances for both your puppy’s parents. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition.

Although the modern Glen is more likely to spend his days relaxing with his family, he still has a hunter’s heart. Nothing is more enjoyable to him than a good chase after a pesky squirrel or the neighbor’s cat — other than, perhaps, a good dig. Others need daily, vigorous exercise, especially those that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting. Breed isn’t the only factor that goes into affection levels; dogs who were raised inside a home with people around feel more comfortable with humans and bond more easily. To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store.

Look for a reputable breeder who tests her breeding dogs to make sure they’re free of genetic diseases that they might pass onto the puppies, and that they have sound temperaments. His strong prey instinct makes the Glen a poor fit for homes with other small pets that he may consider prey, such as cats, rabbits, and hamsters. It also means you’ll need to teach him good leash manners, so he doesn’t drag you halfway down the block when he spots something he wants to chase.

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