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Glen of Imaal Terrier vs Soft Coated Wheaten 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 Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier — at a glance

The Glen of Imaal Terrier (14–18 kg, 12–15 years) and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier (14–18 kg, 12–14 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 — Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier tips slightly higher but neither is a couch dog.

Grooming is where these breeds really diverge: the Soft Coated Wheaten 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 Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Group Terrier Terrier
Origin County Wicklow, Ireland Ireland
Weight 14–18 kg 14–18 kg
Height 32–36 cm 43–48 cm
Lifespan 12–15 years 12–14 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 →

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Temperament

Friendly, energetic, less feisty than other terriers, very people-oriented.

Exercise

60–90 minutes daily.

Grooming

Long silky single coat. Daily brushing prevents matting; trim every 6–8 weeks.

Health

Protein-losing enteropathy and nephropathy (PLE/PLN — annual blood/urine screening from age 5). Renal dysplasia. Addison's disease.

Full Soft Coated Wheaten 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 Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier if

Allergy-sensitive families, active homes, multi-pet households.

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