The Parson Jack Russell Terrier has become one of the most popular dog breeds among new dog owners. The dog breed has very close relatives, and it can be difficult for new dog owners to tell them apart. You may be wondering, what is a Parson Jack Russell Terrier?
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What Is a Parson Jack Russell Terrier?
The Parson Russell Terrier is a bold and fearless dog breed initially bred for fox hunting. It is an energetic dog with a feisty nature that hardly backs down from a challenge. With enough training, the breed makes a great pet that gets along with other animals and children.
They are intelligent dogs and can therefore be easily trained to follow commands. Nonetheless, it is important to remember they are independent and very strong-minded. It is best to take your time and effort to find a way to keep them focused.
Size
The Parson Russell Terrier breed stands at about 14 inches for males and 13 inches for females. They are small and generally weigh between 13-17 pounds. Breeders aim for proportional body weight to height ratio to produce a well-balanced dog.
The dog breed has a generally slender build with a square and balanced body. They have strong rectangular muzzles with the head being proportionate to the body. They are good climbers and can jump to about five feet with great ease.
Appearance
The dog breed has a predominantly white coat with black, cream, tan, or tricolor markings. The double coat can be either smooth or broken or even a combination of both. A broken coat is similar to a smooth coat, although some hair is longer on the face, legs, head, and body.
They have square bodies, and the chests are narrow with moderate depth. Its legs are longer than those of its close relative, the JRT, with a larger head as well. The dog has a black nose with the tip of the ears pointing towards the eyes.
Temperament
This breed is well known for its devotion and loyalty to its owners. They are active and fearless. They make great family pets due to their loving nature and can get along well with other dogs and toddlers, especially after socialization and training.
Behavioral problems can arise from poor training and they include excessive barking and snapping. It might be best to find an experienced trainer, especially for new or inexperienced owners. You can teach them basic commands such as:
- Come
- Sit
- Down
- Stand
As they were initially bred to be hunting dogs, they still possess strong hunting instincts and may be prone to chasing after small animals. When left alone and restricted to a small area, they may end up digging and crawling under the enclosure to explore. They also tend to snap when handled roughly.
Parson Jack Russell Terrier Care
As a new dog owner, it is best to learn about taking care of your dog before you get it.
Grooming
Regular brushing and combing are necessary for the Parson Jack Russell Terrier as the breed can have either a smooth or a broken coat. Both coat types are easy to groom, and the dog is an average shedder.
Daily brushing to remove any additional debris or oils from the fur is required. It also keeps the fur from matting. It is also best to bathe and trim the nails at least once a month to keep the dog clean and neat.
Exercise Needs
The dog breed is highly energetic and active and enjoys spending time outdoors. It is, therefore, crucial to ensure the dog gets enough exercise as they can be potentially destructive and bored when they are kept inactive for long periods.
It is best to take the dog for daily walks and also provide enough space for running and playing. Nonetheless, it may be best to keep them leashed or in fenced-in yards to prevent them from chasing after other small animals.
Related Questions
Some related questions you may have are answered below.
Is It Easy to Train a Parson Jack Russel Terrier?
A PRT is easily trainable as they are intelligent and eager to learn. Reward-based training works perfectly. However, being consistent and authoritative towards the dog is vital, and a firm experienced trainer may be best suited.
What Should I Feed a Parson Jack Russell Terrier?
When it comes to feeding your PRT, it is vital to provide high-quality dog food. You can consult your vet for approval on the required portions for your dog’s age. Monitor the calories to keep the dog at a healthy weight.
Conclusion
As a first-time or inexperienced dog owner, it is crucial to learn all you can before you get a PRT. It ensures you are able to provide the best possible care for your pet. They are also very affectionate and loyal, and with enough training and attention, you will have a great family pet.
