The differences between Parson Jack Russell Terriers and Jack Russell Terriers
Even for Jack Russell owners this question can be a little confusing. I'm no authority on the subject but based on my research I've found the main differences to be in height and weight.
Parson Russell Terriers
- The JRTCA standard is between 10-15 inches at the withers. The ideal height is 35cm/14 inches for dogs and 33cm/13 inches for bitches.
- The ideal weight is generally 5-8kg (12-14lb)
- One of the reasons for the longer legs of the Parson Jack Russell Terrier is that the breed was developed to be longer in the leg to accompany horses on a hunt but yet small enough to burrow and bolt foxes.
Jack Russell Terriers
- There is a lack of uniformity in size. For some authorities, the accepted size is 25-30.5cm (10-12 inches)
- The Australian breed standard states "For conformation purposes the ideal height is 25cm to 30.5cm (10" to 12"). For working purposes the height may range from 23cm to 34cm (9" to 13.5"). The weight should be the equivalent of approximately 1kg to each 5cm in height ( 1lbs to 1")"
- However, in the US, dogs under 30.5cm (12 inches) and over 38cm (15 inches) are disqualified as they more nearly resemble the Parson Jack Russell.
- The weight can vary between 4-7kg (9-15lbs)
Attributes shared by both:
- A workmanlike breed, active and agile, and built for speed and endurance.
- The Jack Russell is an excellent ratter and is very much a working terrier in the truest sense of the word. They are alert, confident, feisty and exuberant.
- The skin is thick and loose and the coat color is entirely white with tan, lemon or black markings, preferably confined to the head or the root of the tail.
- The coat texture is harsh, close and dense, whether rough or smooth.
Find out more about the characteristics of the Jack Russell Terrier