Parson Russell Terrier
Also known as Terrier du Reverend Russell
Great Britain, Large and medium sized Terriers
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 33–36 cm
- Weight
- 5–8 kg
- Life expectancy
- 13–15 yrs
- Bold
- Energetic
- Friendly
- Tenacious
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Parson Russell Terrier
The Parson Russell Terrier is a lively, long-legged terrier from England, developed to work alongside hounds in fox hunting. It has a white-dominant coat, either smooth or broken, with tan or black markings, and a narrow, athletic, flexible body. It is a bold, energetic dog and is also kept as a companion.
Temperament
Bold, energetic and friendly, it usually gets on well with family but has a strong prey drive and may be dog-reactive. It can be stubborn, and needs consistent, positive training.
Exercise
Needs 60 to 90 minutes daily with active games and mental work. Secure fencing is essential because it may dig and chase.
Grooming
The coat needs weekly brushing, with occasional hand-stripping for broken coats.
Care & wellbeing
The Parson Russell Terrier is a springy, tireless fox-bolting terrier. It needs a secure, high fence, firm and consistent handling and a daily outlet for its energy. Keep it lean, and do not leave it unsupervised with small pets.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 6.5 kg adult- Water
- 260 ml–390 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 460 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Parson Russell Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A British terrier named after a 19th-century clergyman and fox hunter whose working terriers were its foundation. It is a longer-legged, athletic terrier used to bolt foxes. It is energetic and needs an active home.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Primary lens luxation
- Hereditary ataxia
- Deafness
- Patellar luxation
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- DNA test for lens luxation
- Eye tests
- Hearing test
Not every Parson Russell Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 13–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Parson Russell Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
- Owners ready for a long commitment — often well into their teens
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Parson Russell Terrier get?
Adult Parson Russell Terriers typically stand about 33–36 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 5–8 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Parson Russell Terriers live?
Typically 13–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Parson Russell Terrier need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Parson Russell Terrier need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Parson Russell Terriers easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Parson Russell Terriers shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Parson Russell Terriers good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Parson Russell Terrier live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Parson Russell Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to primary lens luxation, hereditary ataxia, deafness. Not every Parson Russell Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Large and medium sized Terriers
- Internationally recognised
- 2001