Russell Terrier Breed Profile: Essential Facts
This super smart, active dog breed needs a lot of exercise and loves children.
- AKC Group: Terrier
- Weight: 9-15 lbs.
- Height: 10-12 in.
- Life Span: 12-14 years
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Key Characteristics of Russell Terriers
The high-energy Russell Terrier, with its longer body and shorter legs, is not to be confused with the similar-looking Parson Russell Terrier or the JRTCA Jack Russell Terrier, which are separate breeds.
One big difference between the breeds is the dogs' height. For example, the Russell Terrier is shorter, at 10–12 inches, while the Parson Russell Terrier stands 12–15 inches tall.
A working breed with a strong hunting instinct, the Russell Terrier has a weatherproof coat that is predominantly white with patches or spots of black or tan, or both colors.
Where Russell Terriers Came From
This breed originated in England in the mid-1800s as fox and vermin hunters. The small size of the dogs allowed them to be carried in terrier bags on horseback.
The dogs were then developed in Australia and eventually found their way to fans of the breed in America. According to the American Russell Terrier Club (ARTC), a dog named Paint was the first-ever Russell Terrier registered in the United States, bred by Jerry and Elaine Rigden.
The ARTC notes that it was the first registry in the U.S. "to maintain the Russell Terrier as a separate breed from the Parson Russell Terrier" and that it did so in order "to preserve and promote this old traditional working terrier in its original form."
The club adds that "breeding lines have been maintained with the specific intent to exclude infusions of Parson Russell Terrier blood lines as well as other 'foreign' terrier blood."
The Russell Terrier, like the Parson Russell Terrier, is now recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Both breeds are classified in the AKC's Terrier Group.
How Friendly Are Russell Terriers?
Russell Terriers are fearless and confident animals who are affectionate with their people.
Their high intelligence makes them extremely trainable, and they need socialization and reinforced training. As the ARTC notes, Russell Terriers "care not what is asked of them" when they are outside working in the field.
These dogs are good with children, but you shouldn't leave your Russell Terrier alone with small animals because of their strong hunting instincts.
These terrier breeds are extremely intelligent and so highly trainable that they often appear in movies and on television shows.
Is This the Right Dog for You?
Exercise Needs
HIGH: This very active breed needs regular activity, play and toys, and would be great for an active family who enjoys spending time outdoors. They will do well in apartments or city life with regular, daily exercise.
Grooming Needs
LOW: The weatherproof coat needs little grooming apart from weekly brushing, plus bathing as needed. Be sure to brush your dog's teeth and clip their nails regularly.
Health Problems
LOW: Russell Terriers are fairly healthy dogs with a small number of regular health problems: Primary lens luxation Luxating patella Deafness Legg-Calve-Perthes (hip joint disease) Tumors
More Stats About Russell Terriers
| Friendliness | ★★★★★ |
| Ease of Training | ★★★★☆ |
| Barking/Howling | ★★★★☆ |
| Shedding | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Tolerate Being Alone | ★★★☆☆ |
| Very Good With Kids | ★★★★☆ |
Learn more about Russell Terriers in this video:
How to Adopt a Russell Terrier
If you are considering getting a Russell Terrier, please turn first to adoption resources. Even purebred animals sometimes land in shelters.
Try Petful's free adoptable pets search. You can also check with rescue groups and breeders. Ensure the breeder is reputable.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, Russell Terriers and Jack Russell Terriers are closely related but distinct breeds. Russell Terriers are smaller, have a more compact build, and tend to have a calmer demeanor, while Jack Russells are more energetic and have longer legs.
Yes, Russell Terriers make great pets for active owners. They are intelligent, affectionate, and playful, but they require consistent training and plenty of exercise.
Yes, Russell Terriers are vocal and alert, often barking at noises, strangers, or when they are bored. Training can help manage excessive barking.
Yes, Russell Terriers shed moderately year-round, with smooth-coated varieties shedding more noticeably. Regular brushing helps control loose hair.
References
- "Russell Terrier." American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/russell-terrier/.
- "ARTC History." American Russell Terrier Club. 2007. http://www.theartc.org/history.html.
- "Russell Terrier Temperament." American Russell Terrier Club. 2007. http://www.theartc.org/russell-terrier-temperament.html.
Kristine Lacoste has been researching dog and cat breeds for nearly a decade and has observed the animals up close at dog shows in both the United States and the United Kingdom. She is the author of the book One Unforgettable Journey, which was named as a finalist for a Maxwell Award from the Dog Writers Association of America, and was host of a weekly pet news segment on the National K-9 Academy Radio Show. In addition, she was the New Orleans coordinator for Dogs on Deployment, a nonprofit that helps military members and their pets, for 3 years. Kristine has researched and written about pet behaviors and care for many years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology, another bachelor’s degree in English and a Master of Business Administration degree.
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