Country of OriginEngland
Nicknames and Other NamesParson
Scientific NameCanis lupus familiaris
Breed TypePurebred
GroupTerrier Group
Bred ForHunting badger and fox
SizeMedium-sized
Recognized ByAKC, FCI, CKC, KC, UKC, ANKC, NZKC
Life Span13-15 years
Ideal Weight13-17 (male and female)
Ideal HeightMale: 14 inchesFemale: 13 inches
Fur TypeEither smooth, broken or rough
Common ColorsWhite
MarkingsBlack markings, Cream markings,
Tan markings,
Tri-color markings, Brown markings
AvailabilityCommonly available
AchievementsNone
Suitable for ApartmentsYes
Used in World WarNo
Most Similar ToDanish-Swedish Framdog

Parson Russell Terrier is a tiny breed with full of energy package filled inside them. They are highly intelligent, fearless and sassy with minds of their own. Parson Russell Terrier might seem similar to Jack Russell Terrier but they are completely different from them.

Confused about whether the breed is right for you or not? Parson Russell Terriers are recommended for an experienced owner who can understand the dog behavior and importance of canine training. Here is some information regarding the breed which might help you to decide.

Origin And History

The Parson Russell Terrier is believed to be descended from the dogs developed in Devonshire, England in the early 1800’s. The first ever breed was found by the young John (Jack) Russell and began to cross between the Black and Tan Terrier and Fox Terrier.

After the death of Mr. Russell, the breed became famous along with sportsmen and were apparently crossed with Dachshund, Corgis and asserted toy Terriers.

In 1997, the Parson Russell Terriers were recognized by the American Kennel Club as the member of the Terrier group. However, in 2003, the breed name was officially changed into the Parson Russell Terrier therefore, the original name is not recognized by the AKC.

Parson Russell Terrier Behavior Around Children

Parson Russell Terrier are good with children especially if they are raised with them. If trained and taught properly, they can be a good playmate for kids.

Cuteness Overloaded.

Parson’s should know their limits while playing so that they don’t hurt the children. They should be kept under supervision as they will often forget their energetic personality and may become rough players.

What Kind Of Behavioral Traits And Personality Does These Breed Have?

The Parson Russell Terrier are very loyal, loving and affectionate towards their loved ones. Despite their small size, they are also considered as great watchdogs and are very possessive of their territory and family.

As like any other Terrier breed, these Parson Russell Terriers also exhibit some Terrier traits such as excessive barking, strong-minded, possessive, rude to strangers and many more. They should be socialized at an early age to avoid such behaviors.

Am I Getting A Treat?
Photo Credit- Instagram @parsonrussellsofinstagram.

Parson’s should never be trusted off leash. They might chase small animals and once they get it, they will get it! It is impossible to call your Parson Russell. Similarly, digging is a common problem Parsons owner face. They are quick diggers that if you lost concentration in your Parson for even a minute, you’ll see that they’ve gone halfway down to earth.

Trainability

Training is easy for Parson Russell Terriers since they are highly trainable dogs and quick learners. However, Parsons is likely to behave according to the person training them. If they don’t like the trainer’s personality, Parsons will simply ignore all the cues and will tend to be stubborn.

Parson should never be treated harshly while training. They may become offensive and will need confident and consistent leaders. Once they’re done with basic training, Parson Russell should be sent to advance obedience classes as well as agility training.

Facts About Parson Russell Terrier

  • Parson Russell was used in rat baiting. Previously, 100 of rats were put into a ring or a rat pit, and the bet was made on whose dog could kill the most rats within a minute.
  • The name of the breed derives from the original breeder whose name was Parson Jack Russell.

Health Problems

General HealthHealthy
Common Health IssuesBloat, Obesity, Patellar Luxation,
Lens Luxation, Elbow Dysplasia
HypoallergenicNo
Vaccination RequiredRabies, Leptospirosis,
Canine Parainfluenza, Canine Distemper,
Canine Parvovirus, Kennel Cough,
Canine Coronavirus
SheddingModerate Shedder
DroolingLow Drooler
GroomingMinimal Grooming Required
Weight Gain PotentialLow
Separation AnxietyModerate Chance
AllergiesNone
Diets and SupplementsProtein: 23%
Fat: 8%
Lysine
Glucosamine
Multivitamins

Parson Russell Terrier is prone to suffer from eye disease, deafness, and joint issues. Generally, all small dog suffer from joint issues called Legg Perthes.

Color Patterns

Parson Russell Terrier is found in three different colors.

  • Black and Tan
  • Brown
  • White

Cost of Parson Russell Terrier Puppy

The average price of the Parson Russell Terrier puppy is $400 – $600. The cost of the puppy depends upon what kind of breeder you buy from or the quality of the breed.

Litter Size

The Parson Russell Terrier will give birth to an average of 4-8 puppies at a time.

Size Of Parson Russell Terrier

Height: The Parson Russell Terrier stands up to 12-14 inches which makes them a medium-sized breed.

Weight: The Parson Russell Terrier should weigh up to 14-18 pounds on an average.

Breeds That Are Similar To Parson Russell Terrier

  • Jagdterrier
  • Smooth Fox Terrier
  • Wire Fox Terrier
  • Danish-Swedish Farmdog

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