Mary Allen
Are you looking for a sporty and fun dog, are you an active person, perhaps with family and children? If you also have some experience with dogs, then the Parson Russell Terrier is your ideal candidate. The funny whirlwind inspires with its individuality as well as its versatility.
Pastor Dog Breed
In addition to being a curate (“parson”), John Jack Russell was also an avid hunter and was keen to have the perfect hunting dogs by his side. He bred fox terriers for fox hunting, with the appearance of the dogs being secondary to their abilities as fearless hunter-builders. The long-legged Parson Russell Terrier, officially recognized as a separate breed since 2001, traces back to the work of Pastor Russell. Previously, the terrier was considered the long-legged British variant of the well-known Jack Russell Terrier. Parson Russell Terriers are one of the youngest “official” dog breeds.
Characteristics of the Parson Russell Terrier
The Parson Russell Terrier is extremely intelligent, and not just when it comes to tracking or other “dog stuff”. He also has a strong social instinct, being very quick to spot human weaknesses and able to use them to his advantage. The character of the Parson Russell Terrier is friendly and cheerful: with its funny and charming character, the dog spreads a good mood everywhere. His strong hunting instinct is not to be underestimated. Parson Russell Terriers are not usually aggressive towards people, males are often not averse to fighting with other dogs. The animals are very fond of children and, due to their self-confidence, are also skilled companion dogs in confusing situations such as walking areas.
Training & Maintenance of the Parson Russell Terrier
The Parson Russell Terrier is a very confident dog with a mind of its own. If he sees an opportunity, he tries to take charge of the household. Parson Russell Terriers are not beginner dogs. How the owner is shown a certain sequence in training, which is certainly a challenge due to the mischievous charm of the dog. Obedience is of paramount importance when training a Parson Russell Terrier. Once the roles are clarified, nothing stands in the way of harmonious cooperation.
The desire to keep the Parson Russell Terrier in its purest form as a domestic or apartment dog is absolutely not suitable for this species. He wants and needs a challenge. When he fails to express his dexterity and intelligence, he gets irritated and takes it out on the facility or his people. So make sure your dog always has something useful to offer. The level-headed Parson Russell Terrier is an agile fellow who is excellent for dog sports such as agility or obedience, and especially sniffing work. Also as your cycling and horse riding companion or as an avid swimmer. The Parson Russell Terrier is tireless.
Parson Russell Terrier Care
You groom your Parson Russell Terrier’s slightly shaggy coat daily with a comb and brush. The fur needs to be professionally trimmed by a groomer or experienced owner two to three times a year. In specialized stores, special trimmers are offered for this purpose. Like most small dogs, the Parson Russell Terrier is prone to kneecap problems.