Let's talk Parson Russell Terriers
The feisty field dog. The Parson Russell Terrier lives up to their terrier reputation with a sprightly manner and a rosy outlook on life. Graced with long legs, a harmonious and symmetrical body, and a perceptive expression, they almost look as if made-to-order. The Parson Russell Terrier is also quite intelligent and very able to figure things out on their own. Chalk it up to good breeding and many loyal fans. Look for the Parson Russell Terrier at the next dog show you attend. They’re sure to finish near the top.Official name: Parson Russell Terrier
Other names: Parson Jack Russell Terrier
Origins: England
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Warm weather? | 
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| Shedding level: |  |
Suited to apartment living? |
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| Physical activity needs (high, low, medium): | High | Kid-friendly? |
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| Compatibility with other pets: | |
Can stay alone? | 
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We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches.
Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour.
Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.
Male
36
Height
6 - 8 kg
Weight
Female
33
Height
6 - 8 kg
Weight
| Baby age | Birth to 2 months |
| Puppy age | 2 to 10 months |
| Adult age | 10 months to 8 years |
| Mature age | 8 to 12 years |
| Senior age | from 12 years |
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Get to know the Parson Russell Terrier
All you need to know about the breed
Full of vim and vigor, the Parson Russell Terrier is a lively and loyal companion who won’t fail to deliver hours of fun. A terrier breed to the bone, they are active (to say the least) so will need an equally active owner. Their small size has nothing to do with their large need for getting out and about, even if in the yard - though make sure that fence is secure!
And if you’re thinking they look an awful lot like Jack Russell Terriers, you’re not far off: The Parson Russell Terrier is a cousin, hailing from the same roots as the Jack Russell.
Extremely affectionate too, the Parson Russell Terrier is a great family dog and excellent with children, once trained. They adjust to city or country living, and their petite stature means easy transport from one place to another. This breed is very fast on their feet so a trip out of town where they can stretch those legs makes them very content.
When it comes to the homefront, be aware of the Parson Russell Terrier‘s high prey drive, which makes them ill-suited to mix with other small pets. It’s the terrier in them, which means they’ll chase pretty much anything that moves. Small children don’t threaten them, however. Their minute physicality will fit in nicely on couch, chair, or lap, if you’re so inclined.
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2 facts about Parson Russell Terriers
1. Talk about an identity crisis
It has taken a while for the Parson Russell Terrier to come into their own. Known first as the Fox Terrier, they then took the name of the Parson Jack Russell Terrier, recognised in 1990 by major kennel clubs with this new name. In 1999, the Parson Russell Terrier breed was officially recognised by the U.K. Kennel Club with all other clubs following suit. Phew!
2. Making up my own mind
The Parson Russell Terrier is by all measures a great and content little dog but they do have a side of them that’s prone to wanting to do things their own way. They were initially bred to be problem solvers, able to figure things out on their own, and to this day, the trait exists. It may cause them at times to think a little too independently.
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History of the breed
Many dogs were bred for a very specific purpose, as was the Parson Russell Terrier for fox hunting. The sport of kings was hugely popular in 1800s England and a small dog was necessary to pursue fox above ground, and root them out from their dens below.
It was the Reverend John “The Sporting Parson” Russell, a hunting man, who wanted to develop a breed to collaborate with hounds to pursue the wiley red fox. In 1819 he purchased a small white and tan female terrier and bred the dogs from there. Initially they were called a Fox Terrier. After the name first becoming the Parson Jack Russell Terrier, it was shortened to the present name of the breed.
The Parson Russell Terrier Club was founded by breeder Arthur Blake Heinemann, who created the first standard in 1894. England’s Kennel Club officially recognised the newly named breed in 1999 with the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 2001.
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From head to tail
Physical characteristics of Parson Russell Terriers
1. Ears
Small, v-shaped button ears, set very high, somewhat thick.
2. Body
Very firm, taut body, well-developed musculature.
3. Coat
Smooth or hard coat composed of flat, dense hair.
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Things to look out for
From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Parson Russell Terrier
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Caring for your Parson Russell Terrier
Grooming, training and exercise tips
The harsh, weatherproof double coat of the Parson Russell Terrier does require a particular grooming routine. The breed comes in two coat varieties - smooth, which needs to be groomed with a thick brush or hound glove, and broken, groomed with a pin or slicker brush. Rough coats also require plucking or clipping to remove matting. If it’s something better left to the groomer, then by all means, make an appointment. Baths should only be taken as needed. Trim their nails and clean their ears regularly. Teeth should be brushed daily, or at least as often as possible. A good round of anything suits the exercise needs of the Parson Russell Terrier who can hardly get enough activity, such is their very high terrier energy. Walks and running around the yard are all suitable choices but so are agility and obedience trials, which this breed takes to very well. Keep training sessions for your Parson Russell Terrier fun and upbeat and they’ll respond in kind. This is a dog who gets bored easily so heaping on the praise for a job well done will yield great results.7/7
All about Parson Russell Terriers
The two uber-popular terriers are often confused but the Parson Russell Terrier and Jack Russell Terrier are different breeds entirely. Both petite dogs, the Parson Russell Terrier tends to be taller with longer legs while Jack Russells do range in size but can be quite small with short legs. They are equally as vivacious and vigilant.
Spunky and upbeat with a liking for anything active, the Parson Russell Terrier makes an excellent pet for most any living situation. Being on the strong-willed side means this is a determined dog. On the plus side: an extreme affability and affection, and a small size that helps them fit right into any and all situations.
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Sources
1 - Veterinary Centers of America https://vcahospitals.com/
2 - Royal Canin Dog Encyclopaedia. Ed 2010 and 2020
3 - Banfield Pet Hospital https://www.banfield.com/
4 - Royal Canin BHN Product Book
5 - American Kennel Club https://www.akc.org/