Russell Terrier
OriginAustralia, United Kingdom
SizeSmall
Lifespan12–14 years
GroupTerriers
Summary
The Russell Terrier is a short-legged working terrier developed from the John Russell fox-terrier family and refined in Australia. It is closely related to, but distinct from, the taller Parson Russell Terrier and the FCI Jack Russell Terrier lineage.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Small
- Height (male)
- 25–30.5 cm
- Height (female)
- 25–30.5 cm
- Weight (male)
- 4–7 kg
- Weight (female)
- 4–7 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Smooth, broken, or rough weather-resistant terrier coat
- Common Colors
- Predominantly white with black, tan, or black-and-tan markings
Temperament & Personality
The Russell Terrier is lively, alert, confident, intelligent, and strongly prey-driven. It is small but very active and needs training, play, and safe outlets for terrier behavior.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low to moderate
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 6–8 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Deafness
- Eye disorders
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
- Patellar luxation
- Recommended Health Tests
- Eye examination
- Hearing test
- Hip evaluation
- Patella evaluation
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Acceptable
