Orlovia
Until 1999, the Parson Russell Terrier breed was known by the name Jack Russell Terrier or Parson Jack Russell Terrier. These included the short-legged and long-legged terriers. In 1999 the English Kennel Club recognized the long-legged terrier and the breed was renamed the Parson Russell Terrier.
Emergence of the Breed
Reverent John – Nickname Jack – Russell lived in the mid-1800s and was a very keen fox hunter. Small dogs were used for hunting, and their task was to drive the foxes out of the burrow.
At the time, short-legged terriers were the preferred hunting companions. The small and fearless dogs could be taken on horseback and were put on the fox at the fox’s den.
Reverent John loved the long-barreled type and based his breeding on the bitch “Trump”. He supposedly bought the bitch from his milkman. It is not known whether Reverend John Russell set up a well-planned breeding program.
His first dogs were too “sharp” due to the crossbreeding of bull and terriers and often killed the fox in the burrow. By crossing small beagles, the breed lost some of its sharpness. The barking of the prey also results from crossing the beagle.
Parson Russell Terrier’s Character
The little terrier is still a dashing hunting dog and an excellent rat hunter. The story from 1977 is legendary. On a poultry farm, an Englishman’s four Jack Russell Terriers killed three thousand kilograms of rats in one day. Today’s PRT is not only a hunting dog but also an excellent family dog and a good playmate for children. Spirited and tireless, he explores his surroundings.
Parson Russell Terrier Temperament
In order for these small, intelligent terriers to thrive, they need to be exercised. From obedience to agility, the Parson Russell Terrier is eager to do it all.
These spirited bundles of energy love long hikes and variety. The Parson Russell Terrier’s coat is rough, stock, or smooth. The colors range from pure white to white with brown, yellow, or black markings.
Wire-haired terriers need to be trimmed regularly. Daily brushing is enough for the smooth-haired variant. Parson Russell Terriers can live up to 15 years and older. Even in old age, they are still attentive companions who love daily exercise.