Dog Breeds - Russell Terrier

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed displays towards its family members or other individuals it is well-acquainted with can vary. Certain breeds may exhibit aloofness towards everyone except their owner, while others treat all those they know as their closest friends.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior along with its overall family-friendly nature is a significant aspect to consider. It is important to emphasize that dogs should always be supervised in the presence of young children or those who may have limited exposure to dogs, regardless of the breed's tendencies.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
When considering the general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs, it is crucial to always supervise and carefully manage their interactions and introductions. However, it is worth noting that certain breeds possess inherent tendencies that make them more inclined to get along with other dogs, whether it be in a domestic or public setting.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed tends to leave behind is an important factor to consider. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will require more frequent brushing to manage their shedding and may also be more likely to trigger allergies in certain individuals. Additionally, these breeds may necessitate more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean and free from excessive hair.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other forms of coat maintenance varies among different breeds. It is crucial to consider the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate for this type of care when evaluating the grooming requirements. It's worth noting that all breeds require regular nail trimming as part of their grooming routine.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool should be taken into consideration. If you prefer cleanliness and are particular about avoiding ropes of slobber on your arm or large wet spots on your clothes, then breeds that have a propensity to drool may not be the most suitable choice for you.
COAT TYPE +
Wiry, Smooth
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The breed's level of welcoming behavior towards strangers should be considered. Certain breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, some breeds exhibit a joyful eagerness to meet and engage with new individuals whenever the opportunity arises.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play, even beyond puppyhood is an important consideration. Certain breeds will continue to have a strong desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. Conversely, there are breeds that are content with spending most of their time relaxing on the couch with their human companions. Understanding a breed's playfulness is essential when choosing a suitable companion for your lifestyle.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Regarding a breed's inclination to alert you about the presence of strangers, it is important to note that certain breeds are more prone to reacting to potential threats be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are likely to display an alert and vigilant nature. However, it is also worth mentioning that such breeds can warm up to strangers who enter the house provided they are accepted by the family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed in handling changes is a significant factor to consider. This encompasses the breed's ability to adjust to variations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other day-to-day alterations. Some breeds are more flexible and can easily adapt to these changes, while others may find it more challenging. Assessing a breed's adaptability is crucial when seeking a canine companion that can seamlessly adjust to different circumstances and environments.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and willingness to learn new things are important to consider when selecting a breed. Some breeds naturally possess a strong desire to please their owners and are highly trainable going above and beyond to make their owners proud. Conversely, there are breeds that have an independent streak and may exhibit a preference for doing what they want, when they want and wherever they want. Understanding a breed's inclination towards training and their overall willingness to learn is crucial for successful and effective training endeavors.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation criteria specific breeds need. Breeds characterized as high energy continually exude preparedness and a strong desire for their subsequent exciting expedition. Their day primarily revolves around activities such as running, jumping and engaging in playful endeavors. Conversely, low-energy breeds emulate couch potatoes finding contentment in lounging and indulging in serene slumber.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
It's interesting to consider how frequently this specific breed expresses itself verbally, whether it's by barking or howling. While certain breeds tend to bark at every person or bird that passes by, others reserve their barks for specific situations. Moreover, even breeds that are classified as barkless can find alternative ways to communicate vocally and convey their thoughts and emotions.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The mental stimulation required for a breed to maintain its well-being and contentment is crucial to consider. Purpose-bred dogs often possess specific jobs that demand decision-making, problem-solving, concentration or other cognitive abilities. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may resort to creating their own activities to keep their minds occupied. Unfortunately, these self-created projects may not align with what you'd prefer. Hence, providing appropriate mental challenges and stimulation for your canine companion is vital to promote their overall happiness and prevent unwanted behaviors.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed displays towards its family members or other individuals it is well-acquainted with can vary. Certain breeds may exhibit aloofness towards everyone except their owner, while others treat all those they know as their closest friends.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children's behavior along with its overall family-friendly nature is a significant aspect to consider. It is important to emphasize that dogs should always be supervised in the presence of young children or those who may have limited exposure to dogs, regardless of the breed's tendencies.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

When considering the general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs, it is crucial to always supervise and carefully manage their interactions and introductions. However, it is worth noting that certain breeds possess inherent tendencies that make them more inclined to get along with other dogs, whether it be in a domestic or public setting.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed tends to leave behind is an important factor to consider. Breeds with high shedding tendencies will require more frequent brushing to manage their shedding and may also be more likely to trigger allergies in certain individuals. Additionally, these breeds may necessitate more consistent vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean and free from excessive hair.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

The frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other forms of coat maintenance varies among different breeds. It is crucial to consider the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate for this type of care when evaluating the grooming requirements. It's worth noting that all breeds require regular nail trimming as part of their grooming routine.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool should be taken into consideration. If you prefer cleanliness and are particular about avoiding ropes of slobber on your arm or large wet spots on your clothes, then breeds that have a propensity to drool may not be the most suitable choice for you.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Wiry, Smooth

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The breed's level of welcoming behavior towards strangers should be considered. Certain breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around all strangers, regardless of the setting. On the other hand, some breeds exhibit a joyful eagerness to meet and engage with new individuals whenever the opportunity arises.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play, even beyond puppyhood is an important consideration. Certain breeds will continue to have a strong desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. Conversely, there are breeds that are content with spending most of their time relaxing on the couch with their human companions. Understanding a breed's playfulness is essential when choosing a suitable companion for your lifestyle.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Regarding a breed's inclination to alert you about the presence of strangers, it is important to note that certain breeds are more prone to reacting to potential threats be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are likely to display an alert and vigilant nature. However, it is also worth mentioning that such breeds can warm up to strangers who enter the house provided they are accepted by the family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed in handling changes is a significant factor to consider. This encompasses the breed's ability to adjust to variations in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other day-to-day alterations. Some breeds are more flexible and can easily adapt to these changes, while others may find it more challenging. Assessing a breed's adaptability is crucial when seeking a canine companion that can seamlessly adjust to different circumstances and environments.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and willingness to learn new things are important to consider when selecting a breed. Some breeds naturally possess a strong desire to please their owners and are highly trainable going above and beyond to make their owners proud. Conversely, there are breeds that have an independent streak and may exhibit a preference for doing what they want, when they want and wherever they want. Understanding a breed's inclination towards training and their overall willingness to learn is crucial for successful and effective training endeavors.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation criteria specific breeds need. Breeds characterized as high energy continually exude preparedness and a strong desire for their subsequent exciting expedition. Their day primarily revolves around activities such as running, jumping and engaging in playful endeavors. Conversely, low-energy breeds emulate couch potatoes finding contentment in lounging and indulging in serene slumber.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Likes To Be Vocal

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The mental stimulation required for a breed to maintain its well-being and contentment is crucial to consider. Purpose-bred dogs often possess specific jobs that demand decision-making, problem-solving, concentration or other cognitive abilities. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may resort to creating their own activities to keep their minds occupied. Unfortunately, these self-created projects may not align with what you'd prefer. Hence, providing appropriate mental challenges and stimulation for your canine companion is vital to promote their overall happiness and prevent unwanted behaviors.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
White	199

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Markings	002
Brown Markings	022
Cream Markings	044
Tan Markings	012
Tri Color Markings	024

About The Breed

The exuberant, vibrant, curious, and amiable Russell Terrier was originally bred by the "Sporting Parson" of England for use in foxhunts. This delightful breed resembles a plush toy brought to life but possesses a deep-seated enthusiasm and undying energy as a working terrier. Despite their small stature, these spirited companions boast a wealth of personality in their compact, rectangular bodies, measuring around 10 to 12 inches in height at the shoulder. With their captivating dark, almond-shaped eyes and alert V-shaped ears, they exhibit a keenly intelligent expression that charmingly characterizes the breed. While all three coat variations are primarily white, they feature markings in either tan or black, or sometimes a combination of both. Russells move with grace and effortlessness, confidently showcasing their inherent self-assurance through their free and effortless gait.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A RUSSELL TERRIER

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Russell Terrier: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Russell Terriers are generally known to be joyous and thriving canines. Ethical breeders take on the responsibility of ensuring the well-being of their dogs by carefully examining them for various health issues, including patellar luxation (loose kneecaps), hearing impairment, and ocular disorders. These conscientious breeders are committed to safeguarding the breed's genetic health by subjecting all their breeding dogs to thorough health evaluations and tests. This practice not only promotes the overall health of Russell Terriers but also helps to maintain the breed's vitality for future generations. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Patella Evaluation BAER Testing Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) - DNA Test Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	Maintaining the rugged and charming appearance of a Russell Terrier is quite manageable. These adorable dogs come with three coat types: smooth, broken, and rough. The smooth coat, which is dense and short, can easily be kept in impeccable condition by giving them a gentle brush or using a hound glove once a week. On the other hand, the rough and broken coats require a weekly brushing or combing to keep them looking their best, while still embracing their natural look with minimal grooming. It is important to trim the Russell Terrier's nails on a monthly basis and check their ears weekly for any debris or excess wax. Regular cleaning of the ears should be performed as needed to ensure their health and hygiene. By following these simple grooming practices, you can ensure that the Russell Terrier maintains their delightful appearance while remaining comfortable and healthy.

Exercise

	If you're a family that thrives on outdoor activities and seeks a lively and spirited companion, the Russell Terrier is an ideal choice for you. This breed is not meant for couch-potato households, as their high energy levels and vibrant personality demand engagement and physical activity. Whether it's going on exhilarating hikes, taking bike rides, or enjoying long daily walks, the Russell Terrier will happily join in on your adventures. Keeping their active mind stimulated through games they enjoy will be beneficial in both mental and physical exercise. A tired Russell Terrier is a content one, as they possess a seemingly boundless reserve of energy. This makes them wonderful companions for children who have a solid understanding of how to interact with dogs. However, due to their inherent prey drive, early and extensive socialization is crucial to prevent any potential issues that may arise from this trait. By providing the necessary outlets for their energy and ensuring proper socialization, you'll have a loyal and lively companion in the Russell Terrier.

Training

	When it comes to training a Russell Terrier, having a good sense of humor is essential. These dogs possess exceptional intelligence, enjoy solving problems, and are fond of playing games. To keep them engaged during training sessions, it's important to ensure they remain entertained. Furthermore, their ability to quickly grasp new tricks enables them to amuse people through their performances. Just as they were selectively bred for hunting, these terriers exhibit the same unwavering dedication when engaging in any task or activity, making them excellent candidates for canine sports like agility, flyball, obedience, rally, and even lure coursing.

Nutrition

	Whether you opt for a commercially manufactured dog food or prepare meals at home under your veterinarian's supervision, it is important to ensure that the Russell Terrier is fed a high-quality diet. The diet chosen should be suitable for the dog's specific age category whether it is a puppy, adult, or senior. It is worth noting that some dogs have a tendency to gain weight easily, so it is crucial to monitor the calorie intake and weight of your dog. While treats can be useful for training purposes, it is necessary to avoid excessive treat-giving to prevent overweight conditions. Familiarize yourself with the safe human foods for dogs, and be aware of those that should be avoided. If you have any concerns regarding your dog's weight or diet, it is always advisable to consult with your veterinarian. Lastly, make sure that your Russell Terrier has constant access to clean and fresh water.

Historiography

The Russell Terrier and Parson Russell Terrier both originate from a shared ancestry as fox-working dogs bred by the renowned Rev. John 'The Sporting Parson' Russell in the mid-1800s. Although they were initially bred with similar purposes, over time, these two terrier breeds have developed distinct characteristics and are now recognized as separate breeds. The Russell Terriers were selectively bred to possess both speed, allowing them to keep up with hounds, and a resilient yet compact physique that enables them to pursue prey into underground dens and flush them out.