The Parson Russell terrier was named after Parson John Russell, the hunting enthusiast who developed the breed in Devonshire, England during the 1800s. The goal was to create a small, agile hunting dog to pursue red fox. In America, the dog became known as the Jack Russell Terrier. The Jack Russell Terrier Club of America was formed in 1976. Under this organization, strict standards for the hunting dog were enforced. The American Kennel Club was faced with strong opposition from members of the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America when breed recognition was being considered. The result was the formation of the Parson Russell Terrier Association of the United States, a group that welcomed recognition of their beloved breed. The American Kennel Club first recognized these dogs in 1997 as a member of the terrier group. Since the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America had trademarked the breed name of Jack Russell terrier, the American Kennel Club must register both variations under the breed name of Parson Russell terrier. The breed standards for the Parson Russell terrier vary slightly in size from those of the Jack Russell terrier.
The Parson Russell Terrier is another name for Jack Russell Terriers. Parsons are generally recognized as a separate breed, with Jack Russell Terriers only being recognized for working dogs. They are small, athletic and low to the ground. They have short legs and long bodies. They are feisty, tough and sturdy. Their ears are medium-sized and fold forward. Jack Russell Terriers predominantly have white with some black or tan spots. Their coats can either be smooth and glossy or rough and coarse. The coat requires little attention, but needs to be brushed weekly.
Personality
Parson Russell Terriers are loving and affectionate family companions. They have big personalities and are strong-willed, independent and stubborn. They will not tolerate teasing, which is why they’re not necessarily the best companions for young children. They have high energy and need lots of daily exercise in the form of walks or vigorous play. They definitely prefer the outdoors and, despite their size, may do better in houses with a yard or in the country. They can be aggressive towards other dogs and strangers and are known to bark excessively.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Hunters |
| Function: | Hunting |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Preferred Climate: | Any Climate |
| Group: | Terriers |
| Life Span: | 12-14 Years |
| Nicknames: | Jack Russell terrier |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Parson Russell Terrier Build Information
The Parson Russell terrier is small in stature, standing at an average height of 13 to 14 inches at the shoulders and weighing between 13 and 17 pounds. The musculoskeletal frame is built for endurance, strength and agile movement. The double coat may be wiry or smooth. The coat color is typically white and may exhibit a few black or tan markings. The ears are pointed and flip downward and forward. The tail is docked to a length that is level with the top of the dog’s skull. The Parson Russell Terrier is another name for Jack Russell Terriers. Parsons are generally recognized as a separate breed, with Jack Russell Terriers only being recognized for working dogs. They are small, athletic and low to the ground. They have short legs and long bodies. They are feisty, tough and sturdy. Their ears are medium-sized and fold forward. Jack Russell Terriers predominantly have white with some black or tan spots. Their coats can either be smooth and glossy or rough and coarse. The coat requires little attention, but needs to be brushed weekly.
| Size: | Small |
| Length (Male): | 13-20 in. |
| Length (Female): | 14-16 in. |
| Weight: | 15 – 25 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 5 – 10 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | Docked |
Behaviour and Personality
Originally developed to burrow into fox dens while on hunting expeditions, the Parson Russell terrier possesses keen hunting and digging instincts. A Parson Russell terrier is alert and ready for work. It will enthusiastically hunt chipmunks other small mammals in the backyard, and it will tend to perceive cats and other small household pets as prey. Since they were developed to hunt in packs, most Parson Russell terriers interact well with other family dogs. Parson Russell terriers have a limit to their tolerance and patience, which can result in growling or nipping if young children persist in interacting with them. Like most terriers, Parson Russell terriers are stubborn and tenacious. They are also very energetic and highly intelligent, and they can be easily trained to perform tricks and to compete in agility coursing. To prevent boredom and destructive behavior, these dogs must be provided with plenty of mental and physical stimulation every day. Parson Russell terriers are territorial and vocal, making them effective watchdogs. Parson Russell Terriers are loving and affectionate family companions. They have big personalities and are strong-willed, independent and stubborn. They will not tolerate teasing, which is why they’re not necessarily the best companions for young children. They have high energy and need lots of daily exercise in the form of walks or vigorous play. They definitely prefer the outdoors and, despite their size, may do better in houses with a yard or in the country. They can be aggressive towards other dogs and strangers and are known to bark excessively.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | High |
| Barking: | Noisy |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | Dominating |
| Energy Level: | Very Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Moderate Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | No |
| Independant: | No |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
Both coat variations of the Parson Russell terrier require minimal grooming. Brush the coat once each week to remove the dead hairs and maintain skin and coat health. Inspect the ears and keep them clean as part of the weekly grooming routine. The teeth should be brushed at least every other day to maintain good oral and overall health.
| Colors: | Black, Light Brown, Red-Black Brindle, Tan, Tan Brindle, White |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Rough |
Parson Russell Terrier Common Health Conditions
Despite a lengthy list of genetic conditions that have been seen in Parson Russell terriers, they are essentially hardy dogs. Some of these genetic health conditions to be aware of include progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, cataracts, congenital deafness, patellar luxation and Legg Calve Perthes disease. The lifespan of a Parson Russell terrier averages 12 to 14 years.
Parson Russell Terrier Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
The Parson Russell terrier hails from England. The Parson Russell terrier is also called a Jack Russell terrier. Parson Russell terriers are spunky, agile and energetic dogs with keen hunting instincts. A Parson Russell terrier stands 13 to 14 inches tall and weighs between 13 and 17 pounds. The Parson Russell terrier has a high energy level. The Parson Russell terrier requires minimal grooming. The average lifespan for Parson Russell terriers ranges from 12 to 14 years. For constant entertainment from an exuberant and affectionate bundle of energy, consider the Parson Russell terrier to serve as your fun canine companion.
| Training: | Easy |
| Hunting Companion: | Yes |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | Yes |
| Retrieving Skills: | No |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | No |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | No |
| Police Performer: | No |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | Yes |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | No |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
| Trainable for Tricks: | Yes |
