The Parson Russell Terrier
is a small, agile, brave, principally white-bodied terrier that is known for
fox hunting and other small animals. The Parson Russell Terrier's chest is the
determining factor as to whether a terrier may follow its intended working attributes.
If the Parson Russell Terrier's chest is too large, there is little use for
quarry underground. At work, Parson Russell Terriers are a game hunter, tenacious
and courageous. At home they are playful, exuberant and overwhelmingly affectionate.
The Parson Russell Terrier is an independent and energetic terrier and requires
their due portion of attention and training. The Parson/Jack Russell Terriers
come in two distinct variations: the long-legged version and the short-legged
version. Short-legged Russells are often called "shorties" and are recognized
with the AKC-FSS as the Russell Terrier, or Jack Russell Terrier. The long-legged
variation is called the Parson Jack Russell Terrier. They are both small
dogs and can be a variety of wiry, smooth, and multicolored coats. They are
predominantly white, with patches of brown and black, often covering part of
the face. These Terriers have short drop ears and a tail that is usually cropped
just long enough to grab it out of a fox hole. They are sturdy and muscular,
well adapted to work hard. Parson/Jack Russell Terriers often work so hard and
are unafraid of anything that a farmer once gauged his terriers on his farm
to live only about an average of 6 years. Otherwise, living in a normal household,
the Parson/Jack Russell Terrier can live as long as 16 years. They are highly
energetic, interactive and love to play with children. The Jack Russell Terrier
is the ideal breed for a fun-loving family seeking a hard working little dog.
Other than their legs, they are the same breed - fun loving, affectionate and
full of energy.
