The Parson Russell Terrier is a scrappy member of the Terrier Group, always looking for excitement and adventure. These active little dogs love to hunt, chase anything that moves, and will explore any given space with vigor end intent. Parson Russell Terriers are equally as playful as they are energetic, making these dogs excellent to have around children.
The temperament of
the Parson Russell Terrier can turn from fun-loving to reserved and
aggressive when it comes to other pets or strange dogs. However, they
are less weary around strange people, but make an excellent watchdog
when the family sleeps at night. This is truly one breed that fits a
family that loves a spunky, on-the-move kind of dog.
A Brief History Of
The Parson Russell Terrier
The Parson Russell
Terrier has its roots in England, dating back to the 1800s. The breed
descended from one specific male terrier named Trump. Trump was owned
by a man named John Russell, hence the breed’s name, who was an
avid enthusiast of fox hunting.
John Russell’s
personal mission was to develop a line of terrier dogs that could not
only keep up with traveling horses on the go, but could also maintain
its ability to quickly dispatch fox. This line of dogs became so
popular and successful that they were coined the name “Parson
Russell Terriers”.
Parson Russell
Terrier dogs remained more useful in the field as opposed to the show
ring. A long-standing tradition, proud owners of the breed kept them
from competing at dog shows and instead continued to prove their
reputation as hunters in the field. The breed received AKC
recognition and in 1998 was admitted into the Terrier Group as the
“Jack Russell Terrier”, which was later changed to the “Parson
Russell Terrier” in 2003.
Upkeep Requirements
For The Parson Russell Terrier
This is one dog
breed that is best suited for people that enjoy an active lifestyle.
Parson Russell terriers thrive off adventure and their energy levels
are literally “through-the-roof”. Therefore, they must have
daily exercise and fun games to take care of its needs. Parson Russel
Terriers must have at least two to three brisk walks during the day
in addition to the freedom to run around outside.
The ideal living
arrangement for this dog is to allow the Parson Russell to have
access to a fenced-in yard during the day, but to sleep indoors at
night. They have moderate tolerance to hot and cold temperatures, but
should never be forced to sleep outside. This is also not the type of
dog to have couped up in a small apartment. Grooming requirements are
minimal, calling for a light brushing once per week to remove dead
hairs.
Health Concerns
The average
lifespan of the Parson Russell Terrier is between thirteen and
fifteen years. There are no major health concerns in the breed and
the only minor issues are patellar luxation and lens luxation.
Veterinarians suggest that these dogs get specifically tested for
knee and eye problems.
History
The original name
of this breed was the Jack Russell Terrier; the Parson Jack Russell
lived in Devon, England and was the original breeder of these
terriers in the 1800′s. They were developed to sprint with the
horses and to run foxes out of their dens. Thus, they were bred for
sped and small size.
The AKC registered
this bred in 1998. In 2003, the name was changed to the Parson
Russell Terrier. The Jack Russell Terrier Association of America
wanted the name change. They too changed their name. They are now,
the Parson Russell Terrier Association.
General Looks
The Parsons Russell
Terrier is compact, small, sturdy, and athletic in build.
Is This Your Breed?
This breed requires
a lot of exercise and needs plenty of activity. If not leashed, the
Parson Russell Terrier should be kept in a safe and fenced area or
else his curiosity could lead to problems. Because these dogs need a
good bit of stimulation and interaction, they aren’t for extremely
busy people that can’t devote enough time to the dog. Lack of
attention leads to boredom and destructive activity.
The shedding is
medium. There are two types of coats: broken and smooth. Brush the
broken coat once each week and clipping may be needed about every 3
or 4 months. The smooth coat only needs brushing periodically. It
requires little maintenance.
Coat
The smooth and
broken coats are both weatherproof.
Color
The coloring can be
white or white marked with tan or black. There is also a tricolor.
All colors should be pure and well-defined.
Locomotion
The gait should be
untiring and exhibiting sufficient ground covering. An efficient
front reach and great hind leg drive is required.
Personality
Parson Russell
Terriers are independent, fearless, spirited, playful, alert,
affectionate, inquisitive, energetic, and sociable. They do well with
kids. But little kids should be watched, if playing with this dog
because they don’t like being tousled around. They make good watch
dogs. They have a lot of stamina. They are intelligent and assertive,
but can be stubborn and training can be harder because of their
assertive and stubborn traits. Being patient and consistent helps in
their training. Giving praise and rewards encourages these dogs and
makes training easier. An experienced dog owner does better with this
breed.
They normally like
strangers. The Parson Russell Terrier tends to be aggressive around
other dogs. They chase cats and other small animals. They like to
dig, so a fence lined with concrete is needed. And prevention from
fence jumping is needed.