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Parson Russell Terrier Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Parson Russell Terrier so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank119
Reviews1
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Parson Russell Terrier dog profile picture
OriginEngland flagEngland
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Parson Russell Terrier known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
ParsonParson Jack Russell TerrierJack Russell Terrier
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Parson Russell Terrier? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Parson Russell Terrier Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Parson Russell Terrier? Learn how big the Parson Russell Terrier breed typically grows.
Medium
Weight Statistics
How much does a Parson Russell Terrier weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Parson Russell Terrier breed.
14-18 pounds (6-8 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Parson Russell Terrier?
16 pounds (7 kg)
Height
How tall is the Parson Russell Terrier? Parson Russell Terrier height:
12-14 inches (31-36 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Parson Russell Terrier?
13 inches (33.5 cm)

Parson Russell Terrier Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Parson Russell Terrier puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Parson Russell Terrier costs.
$400-$600
If you choose to purchase the Parson Russell Terrier, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Parson Russell Terrier for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Parson Russell Terrier gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Parson Russell Terrier? How many Parson Russell Terrier are there in the world?
Frequent: The Parson Russell Terrier is easier than average to get. Maybe there is some risk of overbreeding, as it is a popular breed.

Due to its popularity, inbreeding may occur. A new study shows that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful and seek the help of an experienced person or a professional, in making your decision.

Parson Russell Terrier Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Parson Russell Terrier? Discover the Parson Russell Terrier's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Parson Russell Terrier obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Parson Russell Terrier ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Parson Russell Terrier? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's trainability and response to training methods.
Parson Russell Terrier dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Parson Russell Terrier as a watchdog? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's alertness and guarding instincts.
Parson Russell Terrier dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Territorial Protection
Is a Parson Russell Terrier protective of its territory? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's guarding instincts and behavior.
Parson Russell Terrier dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Parson Russell Terrier can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Parson Russell Terrier will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Parson Russell Terrier Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Parson Russell Terrier have? Learn about characteristic Parson Russell Terrier temperament and behavior traits.
HappyEnergeticIntelligentObedientBoldEager
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Parson Russell Terrier sensitivity:
Parson Russell Terrier dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Parson Russell Terrier a good family dog?
High: Parson Russell Terrier dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Parson need? Parson Russell Terrier social needs:
Parson Russell Terrier dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Parson Russell Terrier to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Parson Russell Terrier roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Parson Russell Terrier is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Parson Russell Terrier have high prey drive?
Parson Russell Terrier dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Parson Russell Terrier dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Parson Russell Terrier Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Parson Russell Terrier bark a lot? Learn about typical Parson Russell Terrier vocalization patterns and triggers.
A lot: Parson Russell Terrier is a particularly loud breed. They often enjoy barking and howling loudly. If you want a quiet dog, not the best choice.

The main triggers for barking are fear, attention, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking, and defense.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Parson Russell Terrier? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Parson Russell Terrier breed.
The Parson Russell Terrier is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Parson Russell Terrier live in an apartment? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's suitability for apartment living.
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Parson Russell Terrier indoors.

Parson Russell Terrier Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Parson Russell Terrier to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's flexibility to new situations.
Parson Russell Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Parson Russell Terrier be left alone? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's tolerance to solitude.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Parson Russell Terrier Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Parson Russell Terrier biting potential? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Parson Russell Terrier has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Parson Russell Terrier mouthy? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's tendency to use mouth during play.
Parson Russell Terrier dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Parson Russell Terrier dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Parson Russell Terrier bite? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Parson Russell Terrier bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Parson Russell Terrier measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Parson Russell Terrier is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Parson Russell Terrier bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Parson Russell Terrier bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Parson Russell Terrier puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Parson Russell Terrier, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Parson Russell Terrier bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Parson Russell Terrier can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Parson Russell Terrier Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Parson Russell Terrier live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Parson Russell Terrier breed.
13-15 years
The average lifespan of Parson Russell Terrier: 14 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Parson Russell Terrier handle different weather? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's climate adaptability.
Prefers average to cold weather conditions
The Parson Russell Terrier can adapt to well to cold weather conditions, some dogs even can be a good mountain dog.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Parson Russell Terrier? Discover typical conditions affecting the Parson Russell Terrier breed.
The Parson Russell Terrier is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Parson Russell Terrier need vet visits? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's veterinary care requirements.
Average
The Parson Russell Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.

Parson Russell Terrier Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Parson Russell Terrier? Understand daily activity needs of the Parson Russell Terrier breed.
Parson Russell Terrier dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Parson Russell Terrier need? How much exercise do Parson Russell Terrier dogs require per day?

Do Parson Russell Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises?

Parson Russell Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Parson Russell Terrier breed need?
Parson Russell Terrier dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Parson Russell Terrier Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Parson Russell Terrier prone to weight gain? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's obesity risks.
Low: The Parson Russell Terrier has good luck with genetics. This breed doesn't need to worry about obesity. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Parson Russell Terrier weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Parson Russell Terrier need daily? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's feeding requirements.
1/2 to 1 cup dry food a day.

Parson Russell Terrier Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Parson Russell Terrier hypoallergenic? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Parson Russell Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Parson Russell Terrier come in? Discover all possible Parson Russell Terrier color variations.
BlackTan White Brown
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Parson Russell Terrier need? Learn about Parson Russell Terrier coat maintenance requirements.
Easy to groom: The Parson Russell Terrier doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Parson Russell Terrier is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Parson Russell Terrier drool a lot? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's drooling habits.
The Parson Russell Terrier is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency. If you dislike being covered by slobber spots on your clothes, the Parson Russell Terrier could be a good choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool less than others, just like the Parson Russell Terrier.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Parson Russell Terrier smell bad? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Parson Russell Terrier has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Parson Russell Terrier have? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's fur characteristics.
Rough
Bathing Needs
How often does a Parson Russell Terrier need baths? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's bathing requirements.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Shedding Level
How much do Parson Russell Terrier dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Parson? Do Parson Russell Terrier dogs shed a lot?
Parson Russell Terrier dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.

Parson Russell Terrier Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Parson Russell Terrier good with children? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's behavior around kids of different ages.
Parson Russell Terrier dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Parson Russell Terrier get along with other pets? Discover the Parson Russell Terrier's compatibility with other animals.
Parson Russell Terrier dogs do best when they’re the only pet at the family.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Parson Russell Terrier temperament with other people:
Parson Russell Terrier dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
How well do Parson Russell Terrier dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Parson Russell Terrier breed live with a cat?
Parson Russell Terrier dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Parson Russell Terrier good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Parson Russell Terrier dogs get along with other dogs?
Parson Russell Terrier dogs are not dog-friendly. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Parson Russell Terrier is not the best choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Parson Russell Terrier breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Parson Russell Terrier breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Parson Russell Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Parson Russell Terrier dogs good office canines? Do Parson Russell Terrier dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Parson Russell Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Parson Russell Terrier dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Parson temperament with senior people? Are Parson Russell Terrier dogs good for elderly owners?
Parson Russell Terriers are usually recommended for elderly people.

Parson Russell Terrier As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Parson Russell Terrier be a service dog? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Parson Russell Terrier is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Parson Russell Terrier good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Parson Russell Terrier is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Parson Russell Terrier good at detection work? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Parson Russell Terrier is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Parson Russell Terrier do search and rescue? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Parson Russell Terrier is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Parson Russell Terrier good on boats? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Parson Russell Terrier breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Parson Russell Terrier pull carts? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Parson Russell Terrier is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Parson Russell Terrier used in military service? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Parson Russell Terrier Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Parson Russell Terrier usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
4-8 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Parson Russell Terrier pregnant? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Parson Russell Terrier: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Parson Russell Terrier have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Parson Russell Terrier Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Parson Russell Terrier in? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's AKC classification.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1997 as a Terrier breed.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Parson Russell Terrier in? Learn about the Parson Russell Terrier's international classification.
Recognized by FCI in the Terriers group, in the Large and medium sized Terriers section.

Parson Russell Terrier Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming Requirements: Easy to groom: The Parson Russell Terrier doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Parson Russell Terrier is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency.
  • Obesity Tendency: Low: The Parson Russell Terrier has good luck with genetics.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Parson Russell Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Compatibility: Parson Russell Terrier dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Parson Russell Terriers are usually recommended for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Parson Russell Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Intelligence Rating: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Allergy Friendliness: Parson Russell Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Mouthing Tendency: Parson Russell Terrier dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Parson Russell Terrier is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Cat Friendly: Parson Russell Terrier dogs are not cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Parson Russell Terrier dogs are not dog-friendly.
  • Office Friendly: Parson Russell Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Parson Russell Terrier History

The Parson Russel Terrier was the first to be developed in the 1800s in South England for the sole purpose of hunting European red foxes over and underground, for the sport of kings. The breed got its name from the renowned Reverend John ‘The Sporting Parson” Russel, who had two passions in life; his work at the ministry and fox hunting, hounds and working terriers, for which, he was legendary. His terriers were bred to work together in cooperation with foxhounds in order to thwart the guileful foxes. This required not only agility and smarts, yet more importantly, significant diggings skills, which many Parson Russel Terriers possesses even today. He bred them to be independent problem solvers and to have their own ideas about how to manage things. After John Russel’s death, the name “Jack Russel” was misused to describe all mixes and manner of the hunt and working terriers, many of which bore little to no similarity to Russel’s own Parson Russel Terriers.

From the 19th century, the pedigree of the Parson Russel Terrier included the Jack Russel Terrier, but many people also believe that the modern breed has included ancestors like the Welsh Corgi. It is hard to describe precisely the line of ancestry for these dogs.

In 1914, Arthur Heinemann who founded the Parson Jack Russel Terrier Club, yet before doing that, he drafted the first Russel breed standard in 1904. The AKC (American Kennel Club) officially recognized the Parson Russel Terrier in 1997.

In spite of the name changed from Jack Russel to Parson Russel, the essential breed of terrier has remained the same, specifically considering the name change that was only instituted in 2003. The name change did not require any pedigree change, and modern Parson Russels can still be regarded as having the same essential pedigree as the Jack Russels that immediately preceded them. Therefore, as a consequence, from 2003, while there is still some confusion about the names and the breeds, it is time to officially recognize the Parson Russel Terrier as a unique dog breed, independent of his forebearer.

Until this day, the Parsons can still be used as working dogs on farms, stables and they can still be considered a good hunting partner. As with any breed, it all comes down to the owner’s determination and careful training from an early age.

Rate The Parson Russell Terrier Breed

Parson Russell Terrier Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Andrew Campbell-Rose

    Nov 6, 2021, 4:24:29 PM:

    Excellent loving and obedient breed, but they do like to wonder off for long periods of time if allowed.