Parson Russell Terrier (smooth coat) Fact Center

The Parson Russell Terrier, or PRT, can trace his beginnings back to the 1800s in southern England. There, hunter-breeder-clergyman John Russell wanted a bold, flamboyant type of Fox Terrier that could trail a fox and flush the animal from its den directly into the paths of huntsmen and their hounds. The result was the Jack Russell Terrier. But while breed devotees worked to perfect this special terrier, some were reluctant to apply for kennel club recognition in either England or the United States. They feared that kennel club recognition would result in a show dog that would no longer be able to perform the work he was originally intended to do. Consequently, enthusiasts did not seek kennel club recognition for the breed for many years. Recognition from The Kennel Club of England did not come until 1990, or from the American Kennel Club until 2000. Three years after receiving AKC recognition, the Jack Russell Terrier Association of America renamed the breed Parson Russell Terrier, and changed its own name to the Parson Russell Terrier Association of America. In 2006, the breed ranked 75th of the 154 registered to the AKC. 

The Parson Russell Terrier, or PRT, epitomizes feistiness. He is confident, fearless, alert, and happy. However, his hunting roots may make him a less-than-ideal companion to cats, hamsters, and gerbils, all of whom he might consider to be potential prey, not potential friends. His liveliness can be a lot of fun in an active household with experienced dog owners. The less-experienced owner who doesn’t consider the dog’s need for training, exercise, digging, and barking may find the Parson Russell Terrier impossible to live with. That said, the dog usually enjoys the company of people and, with proper training, can be a wonderful companion. 

The Parson Russell Terrier is a small dog ranging between 12 and 15 inches high at the shoulder, and weighing between 13 and 17 pounds. The coat is mostly white with brown, black, or tri-color markings. The coat can be smooth or wiry (the latter is known to fanciers as a “broken coat.”) The tail is docked, usually to about four inches in length.  

The Parson Russell Terrier’s bold, independent nature can make him a challenge to train, but in the hands of the right trainer (and/or owner) he can become a true star. He needs firm, consistent schooling from a trainer who is patient and has a good sense of humor. The experienced owner who can provide such schooling will be rewarded with a lively canine companion who also can excel in agility, flyball, and hunting. 

A Parson Russell Terrier doesn’t need much in the way of grooming: periodic baths, weekly brushings (to control shedding), and weekly pedicures.

Like all purebred dogs, the Parson Russell Terrier is prone to certain inherited health conditions. Those conditions include eye problems, patellar luxation (a dislocated kneecap), Leggs-Perthes disease (disintegration of the hip joint), and deafness. Breeding parents should receive OFA, CERF and BAER clearances before being bred. 

Moose and son Enzo, portrayers of Eddie on the TV sitcom Frasier; the title character in the movie My Dog Skip; Bear, belonging to Captain Ramsey (Gene Hackman) in the movie Crimson Tide.