The Canine Chronicles Directory
Parson Russell Terrier
The AKC changed the name of the Jack Russell Terrier to the Parson Russell
Terrier in April 2003 and the breeds split forming two different breeds. The Parson
Russell Terrier is a small, compact, athletic dog with longer legs than the Russell. More than 51% 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.
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Temperament
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The PRT 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 PRT
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 they 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: 13-14" ; Weight: 13-18 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, they 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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15 or more 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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Although he was a man of the cloth, Rev. Jack 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. But Rev. Jack liked a longer legged type
that could follow the hounds on foot. He developed his own strain, based on a crossbred
terrier female, which he purchased from the local milkman. First, fighting bull
and terrier dogs were used to add the white color which easily differentiated the
hounds from the foxes and increased the aggression and tenacity. Next, small "pocket"
beagles were used to temper their hard edge, as well as adding the tendency to give
tongue. The result was a dog that was often one thought ahead of the fox. They are
recognized by both the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC and UKC Terrier
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