Parson Russell terrier is a breed of dog developed in England. It is also known as the Jack Russell terrier. The dog grows about 12 to 14 inches (30 to 36 centimeters) high at the withers (ridge between the shoulders) and ideally weighs from 13 to 17 pounds (6 to 8 kilograms). Its strong, muscular body has a top coat of coarse, weatherproof hair and a soft undercoat. The top coat may be smooth (consisting of evenly short hair) or broken (containing some longer hair). The dog can be white, white with black or tan markings, or tricolored. Preferably, the markings should cover parts of the head and the base of the tail.
The Parson Russell terrier was developed in southern England during the 1800’s to help hunters catch red foxes. It was named after John Russell, an English clergyman and well-known fox hunter. People still use Parson Russell terriers for hunting. The dogs can pursue animals both aboveground and belowground. These terriers may also make excellent pets. But first-time dog owners probably should avoid choosing the breed as a pet because the dogs need careful training and much exercise.
See also Terrier.
