Russell terrier is a breed of dog that originated in England but developed in Australia in the 1800’s. It was bred to bolt the fox should it enter the earth during the fox hunt. Russell terriers have a flexible chest that enables them to dig and hunt in burrows and other tight spaces. The name Russell comes from the Reverend John Russell, a fox hunter and dog breeder of the 1800’s.
The Russell terrier grows about 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 centimeters) high at the withers (ridge between the shoulders). It generally weighs from 9 to 15 pounds (4 to 6.8 kilograms). Its coat is mostly white and may be smooth, consisting of evenly short hair; broken, intermediate length hair; or rough, harsh and dense hair with an undercoat. The coat may have black or tan markings.
Russell terriers are eager, active, and tireless. They are loyal pets and need plenty of exercise and playtime. Russell terriers share many similarities with the Parson Russell terrier, but they differ in body structure and height.
See also Terrier.
