About the Parson Russell Terrier

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The Parson Russell Terrier (PRT) should stand between 13 and 15 inches high at the shoulder and was originally bred as a working terrier, developed to hunt foxes and small quarry. Their build and athleticism were designed to allow them to go to ground and work tirelessly alongside the huntsman.

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The breed is known for being confident, energetic, and full of character. Intelligent and bold, they have a delightful sense of mischief and a natural zest for life. A well-bred PRT makes a loyal, engaging, and affectionate companion — happy to curl up for a nap when nothing exciting is happening, but always ready for action the moment you are.

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Like all terriers, they benefit greatly from consistency, structure, and clear boundaries during their early months and years. With fair, positive training and a well-managed routine, they mature into wonderfully responsive and well-mannered adults who thrive on human companionship and having a job to do.

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Parson Russell Terriers make excellent all-round dogs, excelling not only in the show ring but also in agility, hoopers, scent work, and other dog sports. Their athleticism, enthusiasm, and quick thinking make them both capable and great fun to train. Our own Yen and Aldo are perfect examples, they love agility always eager to learn and loving every minute of their activities.

Before welcoming a PRT into your home, it’s important to ensure your garden or outdoor space is secure. Their natural instinct to dig and explore means they can be enthusiastic excavators — and surprisingly agile jumpers — so a 6ft fence is recommended.

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Equally important is ensuring you can dedicate enough time to their exercise and enrichment. A bored terrier soon becomes... a terrier — inventive, determined, and always looking for something to do! With regular mental and physical stimulation, however, they are loyal, trainable companions who truly thrive on being part of an active family life.

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Parson Russell Terriers thrive on activity and adventure. They require at least an hour of daily exercise, but can easily manage far more. Bred to keep up with horses throughout a full day’s hunting, they possess exceptional stamina and determination. Our own Hattie, for example, has climbed to the top of Ben Nevis — and would have happily gone again!

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The PRT is considered a healthy and robust breed, recognised by the Kennel Club Breed Watch Scheme as a Category 1 breed, meaning there are no current or emerging health concerns. With responsible breeding and good care, they often live well beyond 12 years, with many reaching 15 to 17 years of age.

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At Bellvalley, we believe the Parson Russell Terrier embodies everything a true terrier should be — intelligent, determined, loyal, and full of heart