The Parson Russell Terrier is a breed of dog that originated in England and was developed in Australia.  A close relative to the Jack Russell Terrier, the Parson Russell has only been considered a different breed in recent years.




Parson Russell Terriers are 12-15 inches tall, with the ideal height being 14 inches and weigh between 13-17 pounds.  They are the taller of the two Russell breeds and have a square build, button ears, and their tails are often docked in the United States.  There are three coat types, rough (long and wiry), smooth (short and flat), and broken, which is a length between the other two.  Parson Russell Terriers are mostly white with black, tan, or brown markings.


The history of the Parson Russell Terrier coincides with that of the Jack Russell Terrier.  Although both the short and long legged types were originally known as the Jack Russell, the Parson Russell was the first of the two that was recognized by kennel clubs.

*For more information see Jack Russell Terrier.