Parson Russell Terrier

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: England

Group: Terrier

Height: 12-14 inches

Weight: 13-17 lbs.

Life span: 13-15 yrs. or more

Trainability: high

Good with children: Toddlers should be supervised

Good with other pets: no, strong prey drive, can be snappy with strange dogs

What is the origin of the Parson Russell Terrier?

Respect for Jack Russell Terrier breeder, the Reverand John Russell brought about the name, Parson Russell Terrier. It is claimed that after Rev. Russell passed away, his Jack Russell Terrier was crossed with the Welsh Corgi and other terriers to create a different breed. First bred in the south of England in the mid-1800s, the Parson hunted fox. Once considered as a Jack Russell, it has been recognized as a separate breed.

What does the Parson Russell Terrier look like?

The Parson Russell Terrier stands 12-14 inches at the shoulder. Weight is 13-17 lbs. The skull is flat. Eyes are almond-shaped and dark. Ears are small, v-shaped and drop forward. Nose is black. Tail is set high. The double coat can be either smooth, coaese and shoet or beoken, harsh and straight, short to medium long. Color is white with tan, black or brown markings or a combination. The smooth coat should be brushed weekly. The broken coat needs hand-stripping.

What is the temperament of the Parson Russell Terrier?

Parsons are friendly, playful, alert, confident, adventurous. They should have early obedience training and socialization. Parsons do not respond to harshness, so positive training is recommended as with all dogs. They are very affectionate and outgoing. They like to bark and dig and can jump pretty high, so a sturdy tall fence is necessary. They are usually good with children but won’t accept rough handling, so care should be taken. Parsons are hunters and may see small animals as prey. They can be snappy with strange dogs, so when out walking it’s advisable to keep them on leash. These are very energetic dogs and need lots of vigorous exercise. Apartment living can be problematic if they don’t get enough exercise.

What is the Parson Russell Terrier used for?

Parson Russell Terriers are excellent fox hunters. The can do well in obedience, agility and earthdog trials. With their affectionate, energetic personality, they make great family pets.

Possible Health Issues

Legg-Perthes Disease, glaucoma, ataxia, deafness, compulsive behavior, lens luxation, patellar luxation