Jack Russell Terrier vs Parson Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terrier or Parson Russell Terrier? A side-by-side comparison of size, lifespan, temperament, care needs and observed prices, from our Animal Library.
At a glance
| Jack Russell Terrier | Parson Russell Terrier | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Terrier | Terrier |
| Size | Small · 13–17 lb | Small · 13–17 lb |
| Lifespan | 13–16 years | 13–15 years |
| Coat | Smooth, broken or rough | Smooth or broken, sheds |
| Temperament | Fearless, energetic, clever | Bold, clever, energetic |
| Best fit | Active, experienced owners | Active, experienced owners |
| Energy | ●●●●● Hard exercise daily | ●●●●● Hard exercise daily |
| Trainability | ●●●●● Smart, very independent | ●●●●● Smart, very independent |
| Grooming load | ●●●●● Weekly brush, sheds | ●●●●● Weekly brush, sheds |
| Beginner fit | ●●●●● More dog than it looks | ●●●●● Needs an active owner |
| Observed price | $495 median (65 prices) | Not enough prices yet |
How they differ
- Energy: about the same (5 of 5 each).
- Trainability: about the same (3 of 5 each).
- Grooming load: about the same (2 of 5 each).
- Beginner fit: about the same (2 of 5 each).
The Jack Russell Terrier
Named for the Rev. John Russell, who bred small white terriers to run with foxhounds and bolt foxes, the Jack Russell is fearless, clever and tireless. It suits owners who enjoy a busy, vocal dog and can give it daily work and firm, fun training.
Jack Russells dig, bark, climb and escape, and they can be scrappy with other dogs. A bored JRT becomes destructive, and they are not a match for small pets.
Jack Russell Terrier breed profileJack Russell Terrier for sale
The Parson Russell Terrier
The longer-legged, square-built version of the Rev. John Russell's fox-working terrier, bred to keep pace with hunting horses and bolt foxes. The Parson is bold, clever and athletic, with energy that needs daily running, work and training.
Parsons dig, bark and chase, and they can jump or climb out of low fences. Under-exercised, they become destructive and noisy.
Parson Russell Terrier breed profileParson Russell Terrier for sale
Questions
Is a Jack Russell Terrier or a Parson Russell Terrier better for a beginner?
Neither has the edge: both rate 2 of 5 for beginners in our Animal Library. Jack Russell Terrier: More dog than it looks. Parson Russell Terrier: Needs an active owner.
What is the main difference between a Jack Russell Terrier and a Parson Russell Terrier?
Jack Russells dig, bark, climb and escape, and they can be scrappy with other dogs. A bored JRT becomes destructive, and they are not a match for small pets. By contrast, parsons dig, bark and chase, and they can jump or climb out of low fences. Under-exercised, they become destructive and noisy.