The Parson Russell Terrier is a bold and clever terrier, swift enough to run with horses and fearless enough to dig in and flush a fox from his lair. Independent problem solvers, PRTs can have their own ideas on how to go about things. PRTs stand 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder, and weigh 13 to 17 pounds when in peak condition. Their intelligent expression, mostly white coat, and beautifully balanced body give PRTs the adorable looks of a plush toy come to life. But don’t be fooled by all that cuteness’ PRTs are tough little guys built for England’s traditional sport of foxhunting. They’re fast enough to follow the hounds and fearless enough to dig into the ground and flush a fox from his lair.
History
The Parson Russell Terrier was developed in the south of England in the 1800s to pursue fox both above and below the ground. The breed was named for Reverend John “The Sporting Parson” Russell, who had two passions in life: his ministry and his hunting dogs. His terriers were bred to work together with foxhounds in pursuit of the clever fox. Russell created them to be independent problem solvers, and to this day PRTs can have their own ideas about how to go about things.
Quick Facts
Temperament: friendly / clever / athletic
Height: 13 to 14 inches
Weight: 13 to 17 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13-15 years
Terrier Group
Health
By far the majority of Parsons are very healthy dogs, and responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as patellar luxation (loose kneecaps), congenital deafness, late onset ataxia, spinocerebellar ataxia, and certain eye disorders. Puppy buyers should always as for the certification of screenings performed on a litter’s sire and dam.
Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club:
- Patella Evaluation
- BAER Testing
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Grooming
The Parson Russell Terrier has two coat types: smooth and broken (rough). Both require regular brushing’¿the smooth with a thick brush or hound glove, and the rough with a pin or slicker brush. Rough coats will require plucking or clipping to avoid matting of the longer hairs. A monthly bath should be sufficient, unless the Parson follows his nature and ends up digging in the mud. The Parson’s nails should be trimmed monthly and his ears checked weekly for debris or excess wax, and cleaned as needed.
