Parson Russell Terrier — Breed Profile
"Bold, clever, athletic, vocal"
Preacher's dog with devilish streak
At a Glance
Breed Traits
Best For
Active families with experience in dog training, those with secure yards, owners who enjoy outdoor activities and can provide extensive exercise and mental stimulation
Not Ideal For
Apartment dwellers without yard access, first-time dog owners, sedentary individuals, households with small pets or cats, people unable to provide 2+ hours of daily exercise
Health Considerations
Lens luxation, deafness, ataxia, spinocerebellar ataxia
Estimated annual vet cost: $500-$1,000
Breed History
Created in the 18th century by Reverend Jack Russell, an English clergyman who developed the breed as the original Fox Terrier. First recognised in 1990 in the UK as the Parson Jack Russell Terrier, then in the US in 1997 as the Jack Russell Terrier. The name was standardised to Parson Russell Terrier in 1999 in the UK and recognised internationally by 2008.
Fun Facts
- Fast enough to run alongside horses during fox hunts
- Named after Reverend Jack Russell, who developed the breed in the 18th century
- The Parson Russell Terrier is the conformation show standard of the Jack Russell Terrier
- Fearless enough to dig into fox dens and flush out prey
- Independent problem-solvers with strong personalities
Famous Parson Russell Terriers
Wishbone (TV series character)