Russell-type Terrier

In 19th century England, Rev. John Russell developed small, energetic, predominantly white working terriers for hunting foxes and small game. Today’s descendants of these dogs are the Jack Russell Terrier, Parson Russell Terrier, and Russell Terrier. They differ slightly in size and coat, but all retain the quickness, fearlessness and drive to work found in Rev. Russell’s dogs. Parson Russell Terriers are taller than Jack Russells, useful for hunting in hilly areas, while Russell Terriers are the smallest and most adapted to working underground. All three excel in agility competitions.



Russell Terriers are high energy, prone to digging, and need lots of training and exercise from a young age to avoid developing destructive behaviors. Their strong prey drive means they often don’t take kindly to cats, but kids are fine (as long as they don’t handle them roughly!). They are a healthy breed and fiercely loyal and intelligent, making them not only great working dogs, but also a great pet for an active household.

• Primary Lens Luxation ADAMTS17
  Eyes
• Hyperuricosuria and Hyperuricemia or Urolithiasis, HUU SLC2A9
  Kidney and Bladder
• Chondrodystrophy and Intervertebral Disc Disease, CDDY/IVDD, Type I IVDD FGF4 retrogene - CFA12
  Skeletal
• Severe Combined Immunodeficiency, SCID PRKDC, Terrier Variant
  Immune
• Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome, CMS CHRNE, Jack Russell Terrier Variant
  Neuromuscular
• Spinocerebellar Ataxia, Late-Onset Ataxia, LoSCA CAPN1
  Brain and Spinal Cord
• Spinocerebellar Ataxia with Myokymia and/or Seizures KCNJ10
  Brain and Spinal Cord
• Autosomal Recessive Amelogenesis Imperfecta, Familial Enamel Hypoplasia ENAM SNP, Parson Russell Terrier Variant
  Other Systems
• Degenerative Myelopathy, DM SOD1A
  Brain and Spinal Cord