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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
Other Names
What other names does the Parson Russell Terrier have?
ParsonParson Jack Russell TerrierJack Russell Terrier
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Parson Russell Terrier Size and Weight

Size
Is a Parson Russell Terrier small, medium or large dog?

How big do Parson Russell Terrier get?

What is the average size of a Parson Russell Terrier?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Parson Russell Terrier weigh? How much should a Parson Russell Terrier weight? What is the normal weight of a Parson Russell Terrier? How much does a full-grown Parson Russell Terrier weight?
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
How much does the Parson Russell Terrier puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Parson Russell Terrier in the United States? How much money is a Parson Russell Terrier?

Where to buy a Parson Russell Terrier with a good pedigree?

$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

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Parson Russell Terrier? Is the Parson Russell Terrier breed dumb or smart?
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.

Trainability
Are Parson Russell Terrier dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Parson Russell Terrier?
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 Ability
Is Parson Russell Terrier good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Parson Russell Terrier dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Parson Russell Terrier dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
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

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Parson Russell Terrier have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
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

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Parson Russell Terrier is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Parson Russell Terrier dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Parson bark?
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.

Apartment Friendly
Is Parson Russell Terrier good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Parson Russell Terrier in an apartment?
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

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
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.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Parson Russell Terrier be left alone? How long can you leave a Parson Russell Terrier alone?
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 Force PSI
Does the Parson Russell Terrier has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Parson Russell Terrier? How much bite force does a Parson Russell Terrier have? How strong is a Parson Russell Terrier bite?

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.

Biting Potential
Do Parson Russell Terrier bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Parson? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Parson Russell Terrier? Why do dog bites happen?

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.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Parson Russell Terrier do?
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.

Parson Russell Terrier Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Parson Russell Terrier dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Parson Russell Terrier is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Parson Russell Terrier breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Parson Russell Terrier see the vet?
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.
Life Expectancy
How long do Parson Russell Terrier dogs live? How old can a Parson Russell Terrier be? What is the age limit of the Parson Russell Terrier? How many years can the oldest Parson Russell Terrier live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Parson Russell Terrier?

How long is the lifespan of a Parson Russell Terrier?

13-15 years
The average lifespan of Parson Russell Terrier: 14 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
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.

Parson Russell Terrier Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Parson Russell Terrier have? What is the activity level of the Parson Russell Terrier?
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

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Parson Russell Terrier need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Parson Russell Terrier breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Parson Russell Terrier? How much food should I feed my Parson Russell Terrier?
1/2 to 1 cup dry food a day.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Parson Russell Terrier risk for obesity:
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.

Parson Russell Terrier Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Parson Russell Terrier have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Rough
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Parson Russell Terrier coats?
BlackTan White Brown
Grooming
How to groom the Parson Russell Terrier and how often? How often should I take my Parson Russell Terrier to the groomer?
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.
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.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Parson Russell Terrier need a bath? How often should you give a Parson Russell Terrier a bath? Can I bathe my Parson Russell Terrier every day?
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.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Parson Russell Terrier breed hypoallergenic?
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.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

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.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Parson Russell Terrier drool?
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.

Parson Russell Terrier Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Parson Russell Terrier dogs get along with other pets? Are Parson Russell Terrier dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
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.
Child Friendly
Are Parson Russell Terrier dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Parson Russell Terrier temperament with children:
Parson Russell Terrier dogs are kid-friendly dogs. This breed is a good choice if you have children.
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
Are they good as service dogs? Can Parson Russell Terrier be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

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 Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Parson Russell Terrier be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Parson Russell Terrier be an emotional support animal?

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.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Parson Russell Terrier be a sniffer dog?

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 and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Parson Russell Terrier be a search and rescue dog?

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.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Parson Russell Terrier be a boat dog?

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.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Parson Russell Terrier be a drafting dog?

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.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Parson Russell Terrier dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

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

Parson Russell Terrier Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Parson Russell Terrier pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Parson Russell Terrier breed is pregnant?

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.

Litter Frequency

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.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Parson Russell Terrier have in a litter? How many puppies can the Parson Russell Terrier breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Parson Russell Terrier have? How many puppies can a Parson Russell Terrier give birth to?
4-8 puppies

Parson Russell Terrier Recognition

AKC Group
Is Parson Russell Terrier recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1997 as a Terrier breed.
FCI Group
Is Parson Russell Terrier recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Terriers group, in the Large and medium sized Terriers section.

Parson Russell Terrier Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming: 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.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Low: The Parson Russell Terrier has good luck with genetics.
  • Adaptability: Parson Russell Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: 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
  • Intelligent Rank: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Hypoallergenic: Parson Russell Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Mouthiness: 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.