Glen of Imaal Terrier – The Strong and Quiet Working Terrier
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a sturdy and intelligent terrier breed originally developed in Ireland for hunting vermin and working on farms in the rugged Glen of Imaal region. Known for their strong build, calm confidence, and affectionate personality, Glen of Imaal Terriers are often quieter and more laid-back than many other terrier breeds while still retaining the determination and courage typical of working terriers. These loyal and adaptable dogs form close bonds with their families and thrive with owners who can provide regular exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training to keep them engaged and well balanced. While generally gentle and affectionate with their people, Glens still possess a strong prey drive and independent streak, making early socialization and positive guidance important from puppyhood. With their rugged appearance, steady temperament, and devoted nature, the Glen of Imaal Terrier is an excellent choice for families or individuals seeking a calm but spirited companion dog.
⭐ 3 Things You May Not Know About the Glen of Imaal Terrier
- The Glen of Imaal Terrier was developed in the remote Glen of Imaal region of Ireland, where farmers used the breed for hunting vermin, guarding property, and working around the farm.
- Unlike many terrier breeds, the Glen of Imaal Terrier is known for being quieter and less vocal than most other terriers.
- Historical accounts suggest the breed may have been used to turn cooking spits or treadmills in kitchens centuries ago, though this part of its history is still debated.
Overview
- AKC Height: 12.5 inches
- AKC Weight: 32-40 pounds
- Colors: Wheaten, blue, or brindle
- Life Expectancy: 10-15 years
- AKC Group: Terrier Group
🐾 Quick Facts About the Glen of Imaal Terrier
- Energy Level: Moderate — Glen of Imaal Terriers enjoy activity and play but are generally calmer than many other terrier breeds.
- Grooming Needs: Moderate — Their harsh medium-length coat requires regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping.
- Good With Kids: Yes — They are typically affectionate and loyal with families when properly socialized.
- Trainability: Moderate — Intelligent but independent, they respond best to patient and consistent training.
- Barking Level: Low to Moderate — Glens are generally quieter than many terriers but will still alert their family when needed.
History & Origin
The Glen of Imaal Terrier originated in the rugged Glen of Imaal valley in County Wicklow, Ireland, where it was developed as a hardworking farm and hunting terrier. For centuries, farmers in this isolated mountainous region relied on sturdy and versatile dogs capable of controlling vermin, hunting foxes and badgers, and assisting with general farm work under difficult rural conditions.
The breed is believed to descend from rough-coated terrier-type dogs brought to Ireland centuries ago, possibly influenced by dogs accompanying soldiers and settlers. Over generations, these terriers adapted to the harsh Irish landscape and were selectively bred for strength, endurance, courage, and practical working ability rather than appearance alone.
Unlike many terriers bred for speed and constant activity, the Glen of Imaal Terrier developed a somewhat more laid-back and deliberate temperament while still retaining strong hunting instincts. Its sturdy body, bowed front legs, and powerful build helped it maneuver through rocky terrain and pursue quarry underground. Farmers valued the breed’s determination and toughness while also appreciating its calmer demeanor around the home.
Because the Glen of Imaal region remained relatively isolated for many years, the breed preserved many of its traditional working characteristics and unique appearance. However, modernization and changing farming practices eventually reduced the breed’s numbers, making it relatively rare even in Ireland. Dedicated breeders later worked carefully to preserve the breed and maintain its historic temperament and working traits.
Modern Glen of Imaal Terriers still retain many characteristics shaped by centuries of rugged farm and hunting work. Their courage, intelligence, loyalty, and sturdy physical structure reflect generations of selective breeding for versatility and resilience in rural Ireland. Beneath the breed’s scruffy appearance and calm expression remains a determined little working terrier deeply connected to Ireland’s agricultural history and countryside traditions.
Physical Characteristics
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a sturdy, low-set working terrier known for its strong muscular build, rough coat, and calm but determined expression. Originally developed in the remote Glen of Imaal region of Ireland, the breed was used for hunting vermin, working underground, and assisting with farm duties in rugged terrain.
The breed possesses a long, powerful body supported by short muscular legs and heavy bone structure. Unlike many lighter terrier breeds, the Glen of Imaal Terrier should appear substantial, strong, and durable rather than delicate or refined.
One of the breed’s most recognizable features is its broad head with a strong muzzle and expressive eyes that convey intelligence and calm confidence. The face is framed by shaggy furnishings that contribute to the breed’s rugged appearance.
The ears are small and may fold forward or outward depending on the dog’s alertness. The overall expression is steady, thoughtful, and quietly determined.
The coat is medium length with a harsh weather-resistant outer coat and softer undercoat beneath. The rough coat texture historically protected the breed while working in rough outdoor conditions and underground environments.
Coat colors commonly include wheaten, blue, brindle, and various shades of these colors. The slightly tousled appearance contributes greatly to the breed’s rustic working-dog charm.
The Glen’s front legs often turn slightly outward, reflecting the breed’s historical development for digging and maneuvering through difficult terrain.
The tail may be naturally long or docked depending on regional practices and local laws. Movement should appear smooth, purposeful, and surprisingly agile despite the breed’s low-set structure.
The Glen of Imaal Terrier’s compact but heavily muscled body allows it to combine strength, stamina, and flexibility in demanding working situations.
Overall, the Glen of Imaal Terrier projects toughness, confidence, stability, and classic working-terrier character through its rugged low-bodied structure and calm expression.
For a broader comparison of how this breed’s size compares to others, see our Dog Size & Weight Guide.
Temperament & Personality
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is known for being affectionate, intelligent, courageous, and notably calmer than many other terrier breeds. Although still possessing classic terrier determination and confidence, the Glen often displays a steadier and more relaxed temperament than highly reactive terriers.
With family members, the breed is typically loving, loyal, and emotionally connected. Many Glens enjoy remaining close to their people and thrive on companionship and inclusion in daily routines.
The breed is generally calm and easygoing indoors while still maintaining strong working instincts and playful energy during activity.
Unlike some terriers that bark frequently, the Glen of Imaal Terrier is often relatively quiet and thoughtful in its behavior. Their calm confidence contributes greatly to their appeal as family companions.
The breed is intelligent and observant, often assessing situations carefully before reacting. Many individuals display strong problem-solving ability and independent thinking.
Although affectionate with family, some Glens may initially appear reserved around unfamiliar people. Early socialization helps encourage confidence and stable behavior in new environments.
Because of their terrier heritage, the breed often retains prey drive and determination when focused on scents, movement, or small animals.
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is emotionally sensitive and generally responds best to calm positive interaction and stable household structure. Harsh correction may create stubbornness or reduce trust.
Many individuals coexist well with children and other household pets when properly socialized and supervised, although some terrier assertiveness may still appear during interactions with unfamiliar dogs.
Because of their strong attachment to family, Glens generally prefer companionship and regular interaction rather than long periods of isolation.
In the right home, the Glen of Imaal Terrier becomes a loyal, affectionate, entertaining companion with classic terrier courage and unusually calm temperament.
For a broader overview of personality differences between breed groups, visit our Dog Breed Temperament Guide.
Exercise & Training
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is a moderately active breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to remain physically healthy and emotionally balanced.
Daily walks, interactive play sessions, scent games, obedience exercises, and mentally engaging activities help satisfy the breed’s physical and emotional needs.
Although calmer than some terrier breeds, the Glen still possesses strong curiosity, intelligence, and working instincts that benefit greatly from structured engagement and outdoor activity.
Training is generally rewarding because the breed is intelligent and capable of learning quickly, although independent thinking and occasional stubbornness may appear during training sessions.
Positive reinforcement methods using praise, treats, patience, and consistency usually produce the best long-term results. The breed responds best to calm leadership and engaging relationship-based training.
Harsh correction or repetitive forceful handling may create resistance or reduce confidence.
Early socialization is important for encouraging confidence around unfamiliar people, animals, sounds, and environments. Positive exposure during puppyhood helps develop stable adaptable adult behavior.
Because of the breed’s hunting heritage, some individuals may display prey drive or selective recall when distracted by scents or movement. Secure fencing and leash supervision are often important safety considerations.
The Glen of Imaal Terrier generally adapts well to apartment living and smaller homes provided exercise and companionship needs are consistently met.
Care should be taken to avoid excessive jumping or obesity because the breed’s long body and short legs may place stress on joints and spine over time.
Although playful and energetic during activity, many Glens settle calmly indoors once exercise and social interaction needs have been satisfied.
For owners seeking a loyal, intelligent terrier with moderate exercise needs and a calmer temperament, the Glen of Imaal Terrier can become an exceptionally rewarding companion.
Learn more on our Dog Training Page.
Grooming & Coat Care
The Glen of Imaal Terrier has moderate grooming requirements due to its rough weather-resistant coat and dense undercoat.
The coat should be brushed several times per week using slicker brushes, combs, and grooming tools designed for rough-coated breeds to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
Many Glens benefit from occasional hand-stripping or professional grooming to maintain proper coat texture and preserve the breed’s natural rugged appearance.
The breed sheds relatively lightly compared to many double-coated dogs, although regular grooming remains important for healthy coat maintenance.
Bathing is generally needed only periodically because the coat naturally resists dirt reasonably well. Overbathing should be avoided because it may soften the harsh outer coat texture.
Routine grooming should also include nail trimming, dental care, ear cleaning, and inspection of the skin and coat for irritation or debris.
The facial furnishings may occasionally collect dirt or food particles and should be cleaned regularly to maintain hygiene and comfort.
Because the breed is active outdoors and relatively low to the ground, owners should also inspect the underside, feet, and legs for debris or irritation following outdoor activity.
Weight management is especially important because excess weight may place additional strain on joints and spinal structure.
Regular grooming sessions also provide valuable opportunities to monitor overall body condition, skin health, and mobility throughout life.
With proper grooming, exercise, preventive care, and regular maintenance, the Glen of Imaal Terrier maintains its healthy coat, muscular condition, and rugged terrier vitality throughout its life.
Learn more on our Dog Grooming Page.
Health Overview
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is an intelligent, sturdy, and highly determined terrier breed known for its low-slung build, distinctive rough coat, and calm but courageous personality. Originally developed in Ireland for vermin control and farm work, the Glen of Imaal Terrier is generally considered a hardy and resilient breed, but like many terriers and dwarf-built breeds, it can still be prone to several inherited and structural health concerns. Understanding common Glen of Imaal Terrier health problems and recommended breeder health testing can help puppy buyers make more informed decisions when selecting a healthy puppy. Because this breed combines muscular strength, shortened limbs, heavy bone structure, and active terrier instincts, maintaining healthy joints, eye health, mobility, spinal wellness, and overall body condition is especially important throughout the dog’s life.
Health issues sometimes seen in Glen of Imaal Terriers may include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, allergies, spinal stress, and age-related arthritis. Some individuals may also develop obesity-related orthopedic strain, cruciate ligament injuries, hereditary eye disorders, or mobility concerns later in life due to the breed’s unique structure and body proportions. Because the Glen of Imaal Terrier is built low to the ground with substantial body weight supported by shortened limbs, maintaining proper body condition is especially important for protecting long-term orthopedic health. While not every Glen of Imaal Terrier will develop these conditions, understanding the breed’s health tendencies allows owners to make better long-term decisions regarding breeding, nutrition, exercise, conditioning, and preventive veterinary care.
Health Testing & Responsible Breeding
Responsible Glen of Imaal Terrier breeders should perform appropriate health screenings before breeding in order to reduce the likelihood of inherited conditions being passed to future generations. Many puppy buyers are encouraged to ask about health testing, but they are often unsure which evaluations are most important for this breed. In the Glen of Imaal Terrier, careful attention to orthopedic, eye, and overall structural health is especially valuable.
Buyers should ask whether the sire and dam have completed OFA hip evaluations, elbow evaluations, ophthalmologist-performed eye examinations, and genetic testing for progressive retinal atrophy when appropriate. Responsible breeders may also discuss orthopedic longevity, temperament stability, mobility, and overall lifespan within their bloodlines. Some breeders may additionally monitor for hereditary spinal or joint concerns depending on pedigree history.
Unlike some breeds selected primarily for appearance alone, responsible Glen of Imaal Terrier breeding programs often place strong emphasis on sound movement, stable temperament, and long-term wellness because the breed was developed for physically demanding farm and terrier work. Ethical breeders understand that preserving the Glen of Imaal Terrier involves much more than maintaining coat texture or terrier character — it also includes protecting healthy movement, emotional stability, sensory wellness, and long-term vitality.
Before Glen of Imaal Terrier puppies are placed into new homes, they should receive a complete veterinary wellness examination that evaluates the heart, eyes, joints, bite alignment, parasite status, overall structure, and general physical development. Because dwarf-built breeds may place unusual stress on developing joints and limbs during growth, proper nutrition and carefully managed exercise during puppyhood are especially important. Puppies should also leave with age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming records, feeding guidance, and recommendations for safe socialization, grooming, and physical conditioning during development.
A responsible Glen of Imaal Terrier breeder should willingly provide documentation of completed health clearances and openly discuss inherited health concerns affecting the breed. Puppy buyers should be cautious of breeders who avoid health discussions, refuse to provide testing information, or claim their dogs are completely free of health problems. Ethical breeding focuses on reducing inherited risk through careful selection, health screening, pedigree knowledge, and lifelong breeder support rather than making unrealistic promises.
Preventive Care & Long-Term Wellness
Maintaining healthy body condition and regular exercise is especially important for the Glen of Imaal Terrier because excess weight places additional strain on the joints, spine, knees, and overall mobility. Although naturally muscular and sturdy, Glens should remain properly conditioned rather than overweight. Balanced nutrition, portion control, and regular moderate exercise all help support long-term orthopedic wellness.
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is also an intelligent and determined breed that benefits from regular mental stimulation and structured interaction. Walks, scent games, puzzle toys, obedience work, interactive play, and confidence-building activities all contribute to emotional balance and long-term wellness.
The breed’s harsh double coat requires regular brushing and grooming maintenance to help maintain healthy skin and coat condition. Some owners also hand-strip the coat periodically to preserve proper texture and appearance. Grooming sessions provide an excellent opportunity to monitor for skin irritation, parasites, lumps, coat-quality changes, or developing health concerns.
Because of the breed’s body structure and shortened limbs, owners should avoid repetitive high-impact jumping or excessive strain that may contribute to orthopedic stress over time.
Routine veterinary examinations throughout adulthood and senior years remain important for monitoring mobility, orthopedic wellness, eye condition, spinal health, and overall quality of life. Early detection of developing health concerns often allows for more successful long-term management and improved outcomes.
Lifespan & Senior Glen of Imaal Terrier Care
The Glen of Imaal Terrier often lives approximately 10 to 15 years when responsibly bred and properly cared for. Senior Glen of Imaal Terriers may gradually develop arthritis, reduced stamina, hearing decline, vision changes, muscle loss, or decreased mobility as they age. Some older dogs may also become more prone to orthopedic stiffness or spinal discomfort during the senior years.
As Glen of Imaal Terriers enter their senior years, many owners focus on maintaining moderate low-impact exercise, healthy weight management, supportive bedding, joint support, continued mental stimulation, and routine wellness monitoring. Because the breed often remains emotionally connected and interactive throughout life, continued companionship and purposeful interaction remain especially important even during old age.
With attentive care, preventive veterinary support, responsible breeding, and a healthy lifestyle, many Glen of Imaal Terriers continue to thrive as affectionate, sturdy, and highly devoted companions throughout their lives.
Is the Glen of Imaal Terrier Dog Breed Right for You?
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is an intelligent, sturdy, and highly determined terrier breed known for its loyalty, courage, and calm but spirited personality. Originally developed for farm work and vermin control in Ireland, the Glen of Imaal Terrier thrives when given companionship, structure, exercise, and opportunities to stay mentally engaged.
While affectionate and adaptable, the Glen of Imaal Terrier is not the ideal fit for every household. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide:
✔ Ideal for:
- Families seeking a loyal and interactive companion dog
- Owners able to provide moderate exercise and engagement
- People comfortable with grooming and coat maintenance
- Homes looking for a sturdy and adaptable terrier breed
- Owners interested in training, scent games, or interactive activities
❌ Not Ideal for:
- People unable to provide regular companionship and stimulation
- Homes where the dog will frequently be isolated or inactive
- Owners seeking a highly obedient or low-drive dog
- People unprepared for terrier independence and stubbornness
- Homes unable to manage grooming and orthopedic-care needs
Where to Find a Glen of Imaal Terrier
If you’re interested in bringing a dog of this breed into your home, consider adopting from a rescue organization or finding a reputable breeder.
Find a Reliable Rescue:
Read our page about how to adopt from a reliable dog rescue.
Find reliable rescues through our Dog Rescue Directory.
Find a Responsible Breeder:
Read our information page about buying a healthy puppy from a responsible breeder.
Find responsible breeders through our Dog Breeders Directory.
Puppy Considerations
Glen of Imaal Terrier puppies are playful, intelligent, and highly observant from an early age. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are important to help puppies develop confidence, emotional stability, and appropriate behavior.
Because these puppies mature into sturdy and determined terriers, early structure and healthy outlets for their energy are especially important. Their curiosity, independence, and problem-solving abilities often become obvious very early in development.
Puppies benefit from:
- Early socialization with people, dogs, sounds, and environments
- Positive reinforcement training and structured routines
- Daily exercise and mentally stimulating activities
- Confidence-building exercises and interactive games
- Regular grooming handling and coat-care routines
Because Glen of Imaal Terrier puppies are physically developing on shortened limbs and heavier bone structure, owners should avoid excessive jumping or repetitive high-impact activity during growth.
Living With a Glen of Imaal Terrier
Living with a Glen of Imaal Terrier is often rewarding for owners who appreciate affectionate, sturdy, and highly interactive companion dogs. These dogs generally form strong bonds with their families and often enjoy participating in everyday activities and outdoor adventures.
The Glen of Imaal Terrier requires regular physical exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and emotionally balanced. Many enjoy walks, scent games, obedience work, puzzle toys, and interactive play with their families.
This breed generally does best in homes where it receives companionship, structure, training, and opportunities to stay mentally occupied. Without enough engagement or exercise, boredom may lead to stubbornness, destructive behavior, excessive barking, or emotional frustration.
Although affectionate and loyal with family members, Glen of Imaal Terriers may naturally be somewhat independent and determined. Early socialization and responsible ownership are important for helping the breed develop into a confident and stable adult.
Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet and maintaining a healthy weight are important for supporting mobility, muscle condition, orthopedic wellness, spinal health, and overall quality of life. Routine veterinary care, exercise, training, grooming, and companionship all contribute to helping the breed thrive.
Final Thoughts…
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, and deeply loyal terrier breed that thrives with owners who appreciate spirited companionship and strong emotional connection. Their determination, adaptability, and devotion make them wonderful companions in the right homes.
With proper exercise, preventive care, socialization, training, grooming, and companionship, the Glen of Imaal Terrier can become a deeply rewarding and highly devoted lifelong companion.
Are you considering adding a Glen of Imaal Terrier to your family?
🐶 Glen of Imaal Terrier FAQs
How long do Glen of Imaal Terriers live?
They typically live between 10 to 15 years.
Are Glen of Imaal Terriers good family dogs?
Yes, they can be affectionate and loyal companions when properly trained and socialized.
Do Glen of Imaal Terriers bark a lot?
No, they are known for being quieter than many other terrier breeds.
Are Glen of Imaal Terriers easy to train?
They are intelligent but independent, requiring consistent training.
🐕 Related Breeds You Might Like
- Irish Terrier – A spirited and loyal terrier with a bold personality.
- Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier – A friendly and adaptable Irish breed.
- Scottish Terrier – A bold and independent classic terrier.
🐾 Lisa’s Picks for Glen of Imaal Terriers
As someone who has worked with dogs for over 50 years—including more than 20 years helping with housebreaking and everyday care—I’m often asked for product recommendations. I’ve found that a few simple items can make a big difference in a dog’s comfort and daily routine.
If you have a Glen of Imaal Terrier or are planning to bring one into your home, these products and tips can help support your journey together.
🛏️ 1. Dog Beds
👉 My Tip: Waterproof Bed Protection (My Personal Favorite Trick)
One thing I personally do is use twin-size waterproof mattress covers over larger dog beds. They’re easy to wash, protect the bed beneath, and save money long-term—especially helpful for puppies, seniors, or heavy shedders. You can find different colors and patterns that fit your decor.
For tiny dog beds, you can use waterproof pillow covers that fit over the beds to protect them and save money long-term.
I use the same idea around the house, too. Washable, waterproof couch covers are a simple way to protect furniture from dirt, shedding, and accidents—especially helpful with puppies, seniors, or dogs that love the couch.
* Orthopedic Foam Dog Beds:
A high-quality orthopedic bed is one of the best investments you can make for your dog. I recommend these for every breed, once they are out of the chewing stage, especially as they age. They provide joint support, improve comfort, and help dogs truly rest.
* Tough Dog Beds for Dogs That Chew:
If your dog tends to chew or destroy their bedding, a standard plush bed may not last long. In these cases, I recommend tough, chew-resistant dog beds made with reinforced materials.
These are designed to hold up better against digging, scratching, and chewing, and can save you from constantly replacing beds. While no bed is completely indestructible, choosing a more durable option can make a big difference.
* Puppies need Simple Washable Bedding:
For young puppies that are still learning house training, I often suggest starting with simple, washable blankets instead of an expensive dog bed.
Thick towels, fleece throws, or washable pads work very well during this stage. They’re easy to clean, quick to replace, and help protect your main dog beds until your puppy is more reliable. Once house training is more consistent, you can transition to a more permanent, supportive bed.
✂️ 2. Proper Grooming Tools for the Glen of Imaal Terrier Coat
Glen of Imaal Terriers have a harsh, medium-length double coat with a soft undercoat, so using the right grooming tools makes a big difference.
A gentle slicker brush works well for regular brushing to remove loose hair and prevent tangles, while a metal comb helps keep the coat neat around the legs, beard, and furnishings where mats can develop. Occasional hand-stripping is often recommended to help maintain the proper harsh coat texture and natural appearance, although clipping may be used for easier maintenance in pet homes.
Regular grooming helps keep the coat healthy, tidy, and true to the breed’s rugged terrier appearance.
Regular brushing:
- Helps prevent mats
- Maintains coat texture
- Keeps the coat healthy
🦴 3. Treats (Great for All Dogs)
- Jerky Treats for Dogs: Almost all dogs love soft, easy-to-break NATURAL jerky treats. They’re perfect for rewarding good behavior without overfeeding. Soft jerky treats provide protein and are easy to chew.
- Tiny Treats for Small Dogs
For small dogs, I recommend using very tiny, NATURAL training treats that are soft and easy to chew. This lets you reward often without overfeeding.
- Stronger Chew Treats for Larger Dogs
Dogs that enjoy a more robust chewing experience will benefit from stronger chew treats. Some larger dogs may still go through them quickly, while others will take more time—so it often depends on the individual dog.
👉 My Tip: Check Ingredient Labels
I always recommend checking the ingredient label when choosing treats at the store. Dogs don’t need added sugar or artificial ingredients, and some treats can upset their stomach or cause diarrhea. Look for all-natural ingredient labels, and single ingredient or few ingredient labels are preferred.
It’s important to note that even among the same breed, some dogs enjoy chewing more than others, and many have preferences for certain types of chews. If you notice bleeding gums during chewing, it’s a good idea to have your dog examined by a veterinarian to rule out any dental issues.
🧠 4. Enrichment Toys for Mental Stimulation
Glen of Imaal Terriers are active, so giving them something to do is important.
An enrichment toy can help:
- Prevent boredom
- Reduce unwanted behaviors
- Keep their mind engaged
When choosing an enrichment toy, think about your dog’s personality and needs. Some dogs love puzzle toys and mental challenges, while others are happier with something they can chew or carry around.
🐕 5. Safe, Comfortable Harness, Collar & Leash
From my experience, choosing the right walking gear can make a big difference in both safety and control. Some harnesses and collars are designed to help prevent dogs from slipping out, which is especially important for strong or easily startled dogs, and those are the types I personally recommend for safety.
Harness: A quality, comfortable properly fitted harness can make walks more comfortable and easier to manage—especially for dogs that tend to pull or get excited outdoors. If you have a dog that tries to wiggle out of their harness, search for an “escape proof” harness that has an extra strap towards the back.
Collar: I use and prefer safety martingale collars, as they can help prevent dogs from backing out of their collar while still being more gentle than traditional collars when used correctly.
Leash: Choose a lightweight leash for small dogs and a sturdier, heavier leash for larger dogs to ensure good control. Nylon leashes are strong and long-lasting. Some leashes also include a comfortable padded handle.
👉 My Tip: Avoid Retractable Leashes
I don’t recommend retractable leashes, as they can break and tangle easily and create safety issues and tripping hazards.
💡 Lisa’s Tip:
You don’t need a lot of products to care for a dog well… just the right ones. Focus on comfort, consistency, and routine, and you’ll make life easier for both you and your dog.
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