Parson Russell Terrier

Parson Russell Terrier adult
Snowwind Cimba's Pride

In the 19th century, the Rev. John Russell of Devonshire, England an avid fox hunter, developed a working terrier for use on the hunt. These terriers were very well known and over time, the Fox Terrier evolved from a sportsman's dog to a popular and successful show dog. Within a century, the show Fox Terriers, smooth- and wire-coated, had changed so significantly that Reverend Russell's old-style Fox Terriers were referred to as a separate breed - the Jack Russell Terrier, now known as the Parson Russell Terrier.

In England, Ireland, and Australia, the longer-legged square dog is known as the Parson Russell Terrier while the lower, longer dog is called the Jack Russell Terrier. In the United States the name Jack Russell Terrier has been universally applied to the long-legged dogs. However, effective April 1, 2003, the AKC changed the name of the Jack Russell Terrier to the Parson Russell Terrier as requested by the Jack Russell Terrier Association of America (the AKC parent club), which was changed to the Parson Russell Terrier Association of America.

The UKC recognizes the Jack Russell Terrier as the long-legged dogs and Russell Terrier was the name given to the short-legged dogs on January 1, 2001.

This small but brave dog was originally bred to hunt fox. He is also used to hunt other small animals such mice, rats and other rodents. The Parson Russell Terrier today is virtually unchanged from its origins, and breeders are striving to keep it that way.

The Parson Russell Terrier stands up to 15 inches tall at the shoulder. He may have a smooth, broken, or rough coat that is white or white with black, brown and/or tan markings. His small size allows him to follow his prey into its den to flush it out. The Parson Russell may be susceptible to colder temperatures. Feel his ears - if they are cold, so is he!

As a true terrier, the Parson Russell Terrier is bold, agile, alert, and lively. Possessing a 'big dog personality in the body of a small dog', the fearless Parson Russell is not the dog to back down, even when faced by other larger breeds. A loyal and affectionate dog, he makes a good companion with early obedience training and socialization. With early socialization, he will tolerate other dogs well. The Parson Russell enjoys his role at the center of the family!

It should be emphasized that the Parson Russell Terrier is used to working. On the hunt, he is able to keep up with the horses, and therefore has a high energy level. He requires daily outdoor exercise. He is very intelligent and will invent his own entertainment if bored.

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