Parson Russell Terrier main differences from its older brother Jack Russell Terrier - Review + Video

Story

The appearance of unusual dogs in the 19th century is associated with the name of the priest Jack Russell. This pastor was fond of hunting. Having set the goal of breeding animals with high speed, courage, and agility, he began to crossbreed terriers.

As a result, individuals appeared with compact sizes and the ability to easily penetrate holes when hunting foxes and badgers. They gained popularity after the end of World War II. This was the reason for the recognition of the breed in 2001.

Description

The ICF standard No. 339, adopted in its first version at the end of the 20th century, reflects the characteristics characteristic of hunting dogs.

Judging by the description of the breed, Parsons differ only in the structure of their coat, which can be hard or smooth. It adheres to the skin, protecting against external adverse conditions. Both species have a thick undercoat.

This is interesting: Advantages and disadvantages of smooth-haired dogs

The predominant color is white. It can be plain or have lemon, red, and black markings. They are located at the base of the tail, as well as on the head.

Health, illness

Parson Russell Terriers are prone to Legg-Perthes disease (necrosis of the femoral head). Unfortunately, the causes of the disease have not yet been clarified. It often leads to complete lameness of the animal in one limb, as a result of which the dog loses activity and there is a complete loss of muscle mass in that limb. The disease usually begins when the animal is five years old. If you notice even slight lameness in your dog, contact your veterinarian immediately. Parson Russell Terriers are also predisposed to such a terrible disease as ataxia. This is a lack of coordination of movements. It can be transmitted hereditarily, and it can also be triggered by head injuries, tumors, internal otitis media, and infectious diseases. Unfortunately, this disease has no cure. Before purchasing a puppy, carefully study its pedigree. Russell Terriers also suffer from diseases such as glaucoma and deafness, which are mainly characteristic of mature dogs. Dogs of this breed can also have compulsive behavior. It is not dangerous, so there is absolutely no need to worry about it. It appears when there is no one near the dog. The dog may, for example, chase its own tail or bite non-existent fleas. In general, it is worth noting that Russell Terriers have very good health, they are among the long-livers and, with proper care, can live about 17 years.

Character and appearance

The Parson Russell Terrier attracts attention with its cheerfulness and willingness to make contact.

The animal's mobility is due to natural hunting skills, as well as fighting qualities. The dog will be an excellent friend for a sporty, dynamic person, since such an animal is not able to stay indoors for a long time and does not tolerate loneliness well.

Parson willingly plays with children. Gets along with other animals. The following are noted in the character of representatives of this breed:

• courage;
• endurance;
• energy.

In indoor conditions, the pet is unable to realize its hunting potential, therefore, if there is a lack of movement during walks, it can act as the instigator of dog fights and will even try to attack relatives living nearby.

With proper upbringing, the dog shows kindness and sociability. The Parson Terrier is valued as a companion. He loves spending time together and strives to be close to people.

Expert opinion

Anna Abramenko

An avid dog lover. Experience in veterinary medicine since 2009.

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Considering that these active dogs cannot sit for a long time without playing and moving, they are not recommended for homebodies and the elderly.

Analyzing the appearance, one can note the harmonious composition. Height varies from 30 to 35 cm. A narrow body with a slightly elongated neck meets the main goals for which the breed was bred. With such parameters, the dog easily penetrates holes.

Training

Parson Russell Terriers are smart; only excessive stubbornness can interfere with training. To overcome it, education cannot be postponed. It is necessary to start training immediately after the pet appears in the house. Before the age of three months, it is necessary to teach the puppy basic commands that establish a connection with the owner: to me, fu, others. After reaching this age, when all vaccinations have been completed, it is important to begin active walks while continuing training. You can let the dog off the leash only when he absolutely clearly follows the owner’s commands, otherwise others around him may suffer.

At the age of 5-6 months, you can contact a dog trainer for help in training. Any course of study is suitable for Parsons. The main thing is that by this time he already knows the basic commands, recognizes the authority of the owner, and obeys him.

What is the difference between a Jack Russell Terrier and a Jack Parson Terrier?

Standards, following the recognition of the FCI, were developed for the two breeds separately. Without experience, it is difficult to distinguish them, since there are many similarities.

Until 2001, they were considered representatives of one type of dog. Now Jack Russell Terriers, the description of which corresponds to standard No. 345, are recognized as a separate breed. These are shorter animals with a height not exceeding 30 cm. This parameter is considered a priority feature that should be paid attention to. Read the article for more information about the breed.

The Jack Russell Terrier breed also differs from its related breed in that it has a more elongated body and relatively short limbs. Otherwise, no other significant individual characteristics are observed. The color is white, plain or with black and red spots. Temperament and behavior are similar.

General information and breed standards

In general, the Parson Russell Terrier (not to be confused with the Parson Larsen Terrier - this is how the breed is often called by mistake) is a fairly compact dog. The average weight is about 6-8 kg, the height of males at the withers is approximately 36 cm, and the height of females is 33 cm.

The type of coat can be different - there are both smooth-haired and wire-haired dogs. But with color everything is quite clear. The coat can be either purely white or white with brown and black spots. Most often they are collected on the head, but there are also individuals with spots on the back and sides.

The eyes are almond-shaped, dark, deep-set. Nose is black. The head is narrowed towards the nose, although it is quite wide in the forehead area. The neck is strong, long, smoothly turning into a straight, powerful back. Previously, the tail was docked, but in accordance with the new standards this was abandoned.

Important! Although rare, there are puppies with congenital impairment of motor coordination. They are usually killed in infancy.

How is it different from the Jack Russell Terrier?

These two breeds are generally very similar - a novice dog breeder may not notice the differences, especially if he does not have the opportunity to compare two dogs standing next to each other. So this issue should be considered in more detail.

On the left is a Jack Russell, on the right is a Parson Russell

You can start with the fact that Jack Russells are much smaller - their height at the withers is from 25 to 30 cm. Another significant difference is their build. If the Parson's body is almost square, then the Jack's is elongated. Using this parameter, you can accurately distinguish one breed from another.

Breeding

When purchasing a parson, you should immediately decide whether the animal will be used for reproduction. If this is not planned, then it is recommended to castrate the dog and sterilize the female. Such measures will allow them to maintain a balanced character.

When deciding to start breeding on your own, take into account that reproductive maturation of Parsons occurs at 1 year. It is advisable to carry out the first mating at the age of two during the period of estrus, which lasts on average 2 weeks.

A female can bear up to 8 puppies, but the birth of 4 to 6 babies is considered normal. Pregnancy lasts 56-72 days. After a month, the belly is already enlarging, the mammary glands are noticeably swollen.

A secluded place with soft bedding is prepared for whelping. Be sure to notify the veterinarian, who can quickly provide assistance if complications arise.

Care and maintenance

The most suitable conditions for Parson can be created in a country house with a spacious enclosure fenced off for the warm season. In winter, the dog is moved indoors.

These animals cannot be chained.

They adapt well to an apartment if they are provided with daily two-hour walks with active exercises and games. And even while in the room, dogs show their curiosity, as well as their need for attention and constant movement. They are sad alone. Out of boredom, they can scatter and chew things and furniture. This should definitely be taken into account.

Taking care of pets is easy. You need to brush their teeth and comb their fur once a week. It is advisable to regularly remove dirt from the ears, wipe the eyes, and trim the nails. It is recommended to bathe your dog not often, but as needed.

Character

Parson Russell Terriers are very friendly, alert and energetic, with an active type of temperament. At the same time, they are very curious and adventurous, ready to start chasing a burrowing animal at any moment. Dexterity and fearlessness help them in their work. They often show aggression towards other pets or perceive them as potential prey, which should undoubtedly be stopped. They can be cocky with other dogs and provoke them into conflict, including large ones.

The Parson Russell Terrier is very inquisitive and outgoing, attentive and loyal. He must take part in all household chores and is always nearby. He is wary of strangers on the street, but if they are guests of his beloved owner, then the dog will behave very friendly with them, although without hiding some indifference. Parson Russells adore all family members and treat children very well, even small ones, provided that they have known the child since childhood. They get along well with cats. The character also contains such unpleasant traits as stubbornness and jealousy. Parson can hardly be called a natural manipulator, but to achieve what he wants, he can be cunning or pretend.

Nutrition

Parson, accustomed to ready-made food, receives the necessary elements in full. This diet is convenient for owners.

Giving preference to the natural variety, it is advisable to create a menu for the whole week. This will allow your pet to receive the nutrients it needs for its body.

The diet is based on lean meat, which should be at least 40%. Porridges include rice and buckwheat. Fish is offered once a week, with preference given to fillets of marine varieties. By-products are also beneficial.

The dog is also fed boiled and raw vegetables:

• pumpkin, zucchini, beets, carrots;
• chopped herbs (excluding sorrel, berries, fruits).

Every three days the menu is diversified with fermented milk foods and eggs. Vitamin supplements are prescribed by a veterinarian.

List of suitable nicknames

When choosing names for dogs that are dexterous, smart and have an attractive appearance, owners are guided by different motives. The impetus can be the behavior of the animal, its playful nature, or even the owner’s commitment to a certain literary genre.

In any case, the nickname should not be long. Preference is given to easily pronounced sonorous words.

Options for boys:

• Arnie, Barney, Bruno, Jack, Willie, Vinci;
• Gail, Devin, Jacqui, Cliff, Leon, Marty, Miguel;
• Neil, Nick, Olive, Austin, Rex, Rich, Ronnie;
• Toby, Fidel, Charlie, Edwin, Ernie, Standard.

Examples for girls:

• Aidi, Alma, Bessie, Dana, Daisy, Jessie, Jeta;
• Jasmine, Julia, Cameo, Casey, Katie;
• Lara, Lisa, Lolita, Lulu, Malva, Molly, Mary;
• Notka, Nicole, Olivia, Sally, Selena, Snezhka, Sofia;
• Flo, Fortuna, Eureka, Justi.

Rules for choosing puppies

The decision to purchase a Parson should be balanced and thoughtful. You need to take into account the mobility of this amazing dog, with whom you will need to walk a lot, play, and perform various exercises with it.

It is advisable to contact a specialized nursery or an experienced, reputable breeder. Be sure to check documents reflecting pedigree and vaccination. They independently inspect the offered puppies. They should not be younger than two months.

You also need to pay attention to the mobility and activity of the kids. The mucous membranes should be clean, the eyes should be clear, the nose should be cool, and the coat should be shiny.

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages of Parson Russell:

• good security qualities;
• high intelligence;
• is friendly towards the owner and household members;
• sociable;
• the dog willingly participates in competitions;
• easy grooming;
• there is practically no smell;
• the pet loves walks, quickly gets used to the tray and toilet outside;
• withstands heavy physical exertion;
• devoted to the owner;
• fearless;
• hardy;
• smart, funny, friendly dog.

Flaws:

• Long walks and good physical activity are required every day;
• if the dog is left alone in the house for a long time, it can damage things and furniture in order to throw out energy;
• does not get along well with cats and other pets in the house, often considers them prey;
• not suitable for people leading a measured lifestyle.

Reviews

The opinion of the owners of such dogs is of interest.

Oleg, Vladimir: “A year ago I adopted a wire-haired Parson Russell. I'm just delighted with it. We run with him in the mornings and also walk in the evenings. I noticed that my shortness of breath disappeared and my muscles became stronger.”

Anna, Gryazovets: “The children were the initiators of purchasing the puppy. It took us a long time to choose a breed. We settled on parson and did not regret it. This dog is a great friend and ally. Plays with children, accompanies adults. At home requires attention. Capable of making a mess alone.”

Oksana, Astrakhan: “My pet recently turned 5 months old. I can say that with his appearance we became noisy and incredibly fun. Our little parson takes part in all children's activities and loves to run, so walks are dynamic. He is raised by his husband. We have already mastered the basic commands, since the pet is smart, although it can be cunning if it is too lazy to repeat the exercises.”

Owner reviews about the breed

Of course, most reviews about this breed are enthusiastic stories about the irrepressible energy, kindness and fun that the Parson Russell Terrier contains in inexhaustible quantities. Still, there are also sobering reviews. They often write about the downside of hyperreactivity. Even if the owner decides to send the puppy to special training courses, he still cannot avoid chewed slippers and scratched furniture. After all, a puppy will not learn everything at once.

Owners also advise feeding the pet high-quality food, which will have a beneficial effect on the entire body. And try not to give the dog what you eat yourself. After all, such food can be very harmful for her.

And finally, the main recommendation for the owners of the Parson Russell Terrier breed is this: before adopting a puppy, think about how much effort, patience, and ultimately money you need to invest in it, and don’t just look at cute photos. Many people give up after a few months and give the puppy “in good hands.” This is a living being, a loving and devoted friend. Don't let him doubt your love.

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Breed price

The price of a Parson Russell Terrier varies from twenty thousand rubles to forty thousand, depending on the parents and its pedigree, the kennel in which the puppy was born and raised, as well as the number of puppies in the litter (usually there are 4-5 puppies in it, the same number for a bitch easier to bear, less often - 6-8).

You can buy a dog of this breed at a kennel, where all the necessary documents will be provided for it. It is strongly recommended not to buy a dog second-hand or through private advertisements. When purchasing, you need to check all the documents, clarify about vaccinations - which have already been done and which are yet to be done. This point should be taken especially carefully, since the health of the dog directly depends on it.