Parson Russell Terrier
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 Description:
Parson Russell Terriers are small, yet courageous
and fearless dogs. This breed was created by famous
huntsmen Rev. John Russell ("The Sporting
Parson") in England in the 1800s for the
purpose bolting fox. They were originally known
as Jack Russell, however, the name was changed
in 2003 to Parson Russell Terrier. After Rev.
Russell's death, many terriers were referred to
as Jack Russells, when in fact many were not a
true Parson-type terrier.
In 1997, The Parson Russell Terrier was officially
recognized by the AKC (under the name Jack Russell)
in the Miscellaneous Class and in 2000 the breed
was classified in the Terrier Group.
Height: According
to the AKC breed standard, the ideal height for
a Parson Russell Terrier is 13 to 14 inches (33
- 35.6cm) tall at the shoulder
Weight: The
ideal weight for a Parson Russell Terrier according
to the AKC breed standard is 13-17 pounds (5.9
- 7.7kg).
Coat Type: The
Parson Russell Terrier can have either a smooth
or broken coat - both which are dense, straight
and harsh. Basic grooming of the smooth coat is
relatively easy - just regular brushing with a
hard brush when needed. A broken coat should be
brushed weekly. Average shedder. The Parson Russell
Terrier should be shown in his natural coat.
Color: White,
white with black or tan markings, or a combination
of these, tri-color. AKC breed standard.
Temperament:
The Parson Russell Terrier is intelligent, friendly,
enthusiastic, affectionate and loves to be part
of the family. These dogs are are independent
and can be stubborn at times. This is a breed
for an experienced dog owner who understands that
training must be consistent, firm and done in
a positive manner and with patience. If the Parson
Russell Terrier does not view his owner as his
pack leader, behavior problems are likely to arise.
The Parson Russell Terrier is playful and good
with children - as long as he is not teased or
provoked. Socialization is extremely important
or else the Parson Russell Terrier - known to
be fearless - may show aggression toward other
dogs. In addition, this breed typically shows
aggression toward the same sex. Also, note that
while training and socialization should be consistent
- both should also be carried on through a Parson
Russell Terrier's lifetime. As a working breed
and natural hunter, do not leave small animals
unsupervised with your Parson Russell Terrier.
These dogs are energetic and should be exercised
daily. If not in a confined area, be sure to keep
your Parson Russell Terrier on a leash as he may
take off. Also note that fencing should be adequate
since these dogs can be escape artists - they're
known to dig and jump very high.
Health Concerns: Health
issues which can affect the Parson Russell Terrier
include Legg-Perthes (disease of the hip joints
which is usually seen in small dog breeds), thyroid
& eye problems and congenital deafness. The
average life span of a Parson Russell Terrier
is between 13 - 16 years.
Special Interest:
• The Parson Russell Terrier was originally
known as Jack Russell Terrier. The name was changed
in 2003 to Parson Russell Terrier so that this
particular type was separated from the other type
terriers which were commonly referred to as 'Jack
Russell'.
• The Parson Russell Terrier was officially
recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1997
in the Miscellaneous Class. In 2000, the breed
was accepted into the AKC Terrier Group.
• Eddie from the sitcom Frasier
was a Parson Russell Terrier.
Classifications:
AKC: Terrier Group
ANKC: Terrier Group
CKC: Group 3 Terriers
FCI: Group 3 Section 1 Large and medium-sized
Terriers
KC: Terrier
NZKC: Terrier
UKC: Terrier
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