Parson Russell Terriers are lively, tenacious hunters who were bred to pursue underground vermin. Bold and confident, strong and enduring, these dogs meet the world with their tails held high. Their senses of humor and mischief make Parson Russell Terriers beloved canine companions.
Originally from England, this medium-sized and high-energy breed can grow to between 13-17 pounds and lives an average of 13-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Terrier group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | England |
| Breed group | Terrier |
| Average lifespan | 13-15 years |
| Size | Small |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 66 |
| Family | Terrier |
| Date of origin | 1800s |
| Original function | Fox bolting |
| Today's function | Earthdog trials |
| Average size of male | Height: 12-14 Weight: 13-17 |
| Average size of female | Height: 12-14 Weight: 13-17 |
| Other name | Jack Russell Terrier |
| Energy level | High energy |
| Exercise needs | High |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Shy |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Not very protective |
| Grooming needs | Moderate maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A PARSON RUSSELL TERRIER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Parson Russell Terriers are playful, friendly, and fun-loving. They get along well with other dogs, and play best with supervised children. They don't go looking for trouble, exactly, but this dog's nose for adventure can sometimes get it into sticky situations.
WHAT IS PARSON RUSSELL TERRIER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
Parson Russell Terriers are an athletic and very active breed. These little dogs need lots of exercise every day to be their happiest and healthiest selves. They make tenacious workers and affectionate, alert housedogs. Some also tend to bark, so be sure to discourage nuisance barking early and often. Like many earthdogs, Parson Russell Terriers also love to dig; don't leave them unsupervised in your backyard unless you're a fan of the canine landscaping arts.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A PARSON RUSSELL TERRIER?
This clever breed responds well to training, and will appreciate both the physical activity and the mental stimulation. The Parson Russell is a terrier, though — which means it loves to explore and chase more than anything in the world. These instincts make your Parson Russell Terrier not the best candidate for off-leash play outside a well-fenced area.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO PARSON RUSSELL TERRIERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Parson Russell Terriers are seasonal shedders who require only occasional grooming and bathing. Plan for regular brushing, but most won't need more than that. Their weatherproof coats are harsh and can be either broken or smooth. Families with broken coated Parson Russell Terriers might consider hand stripping.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO PARSON RUSSELL TERRIERS HAVE?
These are generally healthy dogs. Some Parson Russell Terriers are prone to deafness, eye disease, and slipping kneecaps. They may also have issues with compulsive behaviors.
