Glen of Imaal Terrier
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is described by the AKC as spirited, gentle, bold, a member of the Terrier Group, originally from Ireland.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 12.5-14 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 32-40 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Spirited / Gentle / Bold [1] |
| AKC group | Terrier Group [1] |
| Origin | Ireland [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 165 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
A little more laid-back than the typical terrier, Glens require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy. As a dwarf breed with slightly curved front legs, Glens should not be rushed into strenuous exercise such as long walks on leash'¿it's good to start leash training, but keep the walks short and fun. A small handful of the pup's regular kibble can be used to reward him for staying close while on leash. [1]
Grooming
The Glen of Imaal Terrier's weather-resistant double coat, consisting of a rough outer coat and a soft undercoat, requires moderate brushing weekly to prevent matting of the furnishings (the soft hair around the ears, neck, legs and belly) and should also be stripped two or three times a year. They shed very little as a result of this effort. It does not take a great amount of time, and the bonding you achieve with your pup is well worth the time involved. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Glen of Imaal Terriers are generally healthy dogs, but there are several health and genetic screening considerations specific to the breed. These include hip dysplasia and eye disease such as cone rod dystrophy. Responsible breeders will screen their stock for conditions the breed can be prone to. Caution should be taken to avoid unnecessary stress on the front legs during their first nine months of life. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Degenerative Myelopathy (Common Variant) (DM) - DNA Test, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Cone-Rod Dystrophy 3 (PRA-crd3) - DNA Test. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Glen of Imaal Terrier in 2004. [1]
- It ranked No. 165 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 168 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Glen.” [1]
- The AKC lists Ireland as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 5 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ People who want less dog hair at home (AKC shedding 2/5)
Common questions
How long do Glen of Imaal Terriers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-15 years.
How big does a Glen of Imaal Terrier get?
AKC breed information lists height 12.5-14 inches and weight 32-40 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Glen of Imaal Terrier?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Glen of Imaal Terrier, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.