Background of the breed
Carlisle Tack (b. 1884)
An early Parson and Fox Terrier ancestor going back to dogs from Parson John Russell.
(The early Fox Terriers and Parson Russell Terriers shared many common ancestors).
Early "Parsons" out hunting
On April 1, 2000, Parson Russell Terriers were accepted into the American Kennel Club. The Parson Russell Terrier Association of America (PRTAA.ORG) is the official "Parent" club of the Parson Russell Terrier in the United States.
AKC Parson Russell Terriers range in height from 12" to 15" inches. They have good length of leg (no dwarf legs allowed) and can be all white or white with red, tan, black or tri-colored markings. They can be smooth or broken coated. Although many Parson Russell Terriers make excellent family pets, they do need supervision and training. Small children and Parson Russell Terriers should be supervised, since the dog may try to dominate the child. The average life span is 12 to 15 years.
Parson Russell Terriers have recently become very popular. Many people are drawn to their size and crowd appeal. In addition several have been seen on popular television programs like "Frasier" and “Wishbone.” However, Parson Russell’s are not for everyone, and unfortunately for the dogs, many end up in shelters or are put to sleep.
Originating from the South of England, the ancestors were agile, clever and energetic dogs, whose jobs were to hunt and "go to ground" (enter the earth after fox and other small game). They are not mellow, calm little dogs. They are definitely "busy". Even though they usually love interacting with their owners, they are not strictly “lap dogs.” They can be very keen after small game like gerbils, guinea pigs and even cats. Since it is in their natures to dig in the earth, they can and will dig holes in the yard and have been known to escape fences by going under or climbing over the top. To safely keep a Parson Russell, it is recommended that the owner have a securely fenced “Terrier-proof” yard. Some Parson Russell Terriers do best as only dogs. It depends on the dog, while others interact well with other breeds of dogs. Beware keeping terriers together, as they can have power struggles. When terriers fight, it is oftentimes to the death!
Although usually healthy dogs, some concerns include deafness, eye problems, and slipped kneecaps. If you are interested in a Parson Russell Terrier, visit a breeder, attend a local dog show and meet several Parson Russell Terriers before jumping into purchasing one. Please do NOT buy from puppy mills or pet shops. There are reputable breeders who will sell healthy puppies with a contract ensuring that the owner is getting a sound pet and that the breeder will always take the dog back if something were to happen that the dog could no longer be kept.
Recommended reading”
'The Complete Idiot's Guide to Owning a JRT ' by Deborah Britt-Hay
'Jack Russell Terriers Today' by Sheila Atter
'The Ultimate Jack Russell Edited' by Mary Strom
'The Real Jack Russell' by Eddie Chapman
'The Jack Russell Terrier, Courageous Companion' by Catherine Brown
'Jack Russell Terriers' by Linda Bolinger and Peggy Swayer
