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Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Kerry Blue Terrier

Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.

Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Kerry Blue Terrier — at a glance

The Glen of Imaal Terrier (14–18 kg, 12–15 years) and the Kerry Blue Terrier (15–18 kg, 12–15 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.

Both breeds have similar energy demands — Kerry Blue Terrier tips slightly higher but neither is a couch dog.

Grooming is where these breeds really diverge: the Kerry Blue Terrier needs significantly more brushing, washing and coat care. Factor in €30–€80 every 6–8 weeks for a professional groomer if you don't do it yourself.

Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.

Glen of Imaal Terrier Kerry Blue Terrier
Group Terrier Terrier
Origin County Wicklow, Ireland County Kerry, Ireland
Weight 14–18 kg 15–18 kg
Height 32–36 cm 44–49 cm
Lifespan 12–15 years 12–15 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK

Glen of Imaal Terrier

Temperament

Calm, brave, surprisingly mellow indoors for a terrier. Devoted to their family, reserved with strangers. Like all terriers, they have prey drive and can be dog-aggressive without early socialisation.

Exercise

45–60 minutes daily. Surprisingly low-energy compared to other terriers — happy with a good walk + a sniffing adventure rather than constant activity.

Grooming

Medium-length harsh double coat. Brush weekly, hand-strip every 6 months (or trim if pet-only). Sheds lightly, considered moderately hypoallergenic.

Health

Watch for: progressive retinal atrophy (PRA — DNA test essential, the breed has a Glen-specific form called crd3), hip dysplasia, cardiac issues. Generally hardy.

Full Glen of Imaal Terrier profile →

Kerry Blue Terrier

Temperament

Bold, alert, deeply loyal to family. Friendly with people they know, reserved with strangers. Like most terriers, they have strong prey drive and can be dog-reactive — early socialisation is essential. Very intelligent and require mental stimulation to avoid mischief.

Exercise

60+ minutes daily of active exercise — they have terrier energy without let-up. Loves swimming. Mental work (puzzle toys, scent games) is just as important.

Grooming

Demanding. Soft, wavy, non-shedding coat needs brushing 2–3× weekly + professional grooming every 6–8 weeks (€40–€70). Without regular trimming the coat mats badly. Trim around eyes monthly to keep vision clear.

Health

Generally healthy. Watch for: hip dysplasia, eye conditions (cataracts, entropion), bloat, hypothyroidism, and Kerry Blue Terrier-specific Progressive Neuronal Abiotrophy (PNA — a fatal neurological condition, DNA test available).

Full Kerry Blue Terrier profile →

Which is right for you?

Pick the Glen of Imaal Terrier if

Experienced terrier-loving families, owners wanting a quieter terrier, those with a small Wicklow-shaped soft spot.

Pick the Kerry Blue Terrier if

Active owners committed to grooming, families with older children, those wanting a hypoallergenic terrier with attitude.

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