Why Are There Short and Long-legged Russell Terriers?

Why Are There Short and Long-legged Russell Terriers?

Today we explore the reason for short and long-legged Russell Terriers. What was it about the history and breeding of Russell Terriers that led to the Jack Russell (short-legged) and Parson Russell (long-legged) varieties?

Here’s a little JRT history for you, courtesy of luvmydogs.com:

The origin story for Jack Russell Terriers was described in the memoir of the Rev. John Russell, written by E. W. L. Davies. In 1815, the Reverend, then 20 years old and strolling near the river Cherwell, encountered a milkman with a terrier. The Reverend was absolutely passionate about fox hunting which incorporates the help of dogs. Of the milkman’s terrier, John said, he’d only seen such a dog “in his dreams.” 

Determined to acquire the dream dog, he bargained with the owner until the female terrier called Trump, came into his possession. White, with a patch of dark tan over each eye and ear and a dot of tan at the root of the tail, her coat was thick, close and slightly wiry. Her legs were straight, while her entire frame suggested hardiness and endurance. 

Since then breeders in England, Australia and the USA have contributed to the development of the breed we know today.

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@mimiponpon_jrt

Whatever the length of the their legs, Jack (or Parson) Russell Terriers are sure to run straight into your heart!