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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Russell Terrier
The Russell Terrier is a small, compact, athletic dog. More than half of the coat
should be white with reddish black, tan or brown markings on the head and tail.
The skull is flat with a defined but not abrupt stop. The nose is black and the
eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The ears fold forward and are v-shaped. This breed
has a small chest and a flexible body that enables him to go to ground after his
prey. The tail is docked, set high and is carried gaily. There are three coat types
in this breed: smooth, broken and wire-haired. The short-legged version of this
breed are often called "Shorties". The long-legged version is called the Parson
Russell Terrier.
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Temperament
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The Russell Terrier is a spirited, merry, devoted and obedient dog. This fearless
and amusing pet enjoys playing with toys. They are usually kind to children who
have been taught not to abuse the dog. They can be a bit willful and determined
at times. This breed needs a firm and experienced trainer as they can be difficult
to train. The RT can be dog aggressive, so early training and socialization is necessary.
They have strong hunting instincts so they should not be left alone with small animals.
They love to chase and explore so care should be taken when are off their lead.
They love to bark, dig and can be destructive if not occupied or thoroughly exercised.
They also can jump very high, so a high fence is necessary. Not recommended for
novice owners.
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Height, Weight
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Height: 9-12" ; Weight: 9-15 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed is prone to inherited eye diseases, deafness, Legg Perthes and dislocation
of the kneecaps.
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Living Conditions
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The breed will do fine living in an apartment but should have a person home with
them during the day. If it needs to be left alone, it should be crate trained. Give
the dog some exercise, or they will annoy you until you play with them.
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Exercise
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This breed loves to exercise, but is not demanding. They love to run, play and hunt.
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Life Expectancy
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About 13-15 years
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Grooming
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This breed is easy to groom. Brush and comb regularly and only bathe when necessary.
More grooming is necessary when showing the breed.
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Origin
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Reverend John Russell was a passionate fox hunter during the mid 1800s. Fox hunters
needed small dogs to roust the foxes who had escaped to ground. Many hunters employed
smaller or shorter legged terriers, which had to be carried on horseback to the
fox's lair. Rev. Russell developed a well-known strain of Fox Terrier that included
the Smooth, Wire and Jack Russell Terriers. A fourth breed was also developed which
included a smaller, longer-bodied, shorter-legged dog that was mostly used to hunt
vermin and to bolt rabbits. There is much confusion and debate over the breed varieties
today. The British Kennel Club (KC) only recognizes the Parson Jack Russell Terrier.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) accepts the long-legged version, which is more popular
in the United States. This breed is recognized by the UKC and the FCI and has been
accepted for recording in the AKC Foundation Stock Service®.
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Group
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Terrier
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