Is a Russell Terrier the same as a Jack Russell Terrier?

The Russell Terrier is not the same as a Jack Russell Terrier (also called a Parson Russell Terrier), but their origin stories begin in the same fox-hunting dogs. They’ve since developed into two distinct breeds. Russells are a bit shorter and more rectangular in shape thanks to their longer body. Jack Russell Terriers are taller and square.

Are Russell Terriers good pets?

Russell Terriers can be a good pet for an experienced, active pet parent who can dedicate hours to exercising and training their dog every day.

Do Russell Terriers bark a lot?

Russell Terriers are vocal dogs, a trait that served them well as hunting dogs. Early, consistent training can help them find a different way to communicate, but don’t expect your Russell to be a quiet dog.

Do Russell Terriers shed a lot?

Russell Terriers shed a moderate amount. Brushing them at least once a week can help keep stray fur under control.

Russell Terrier

Updated December 15, 2025

The Russell Terrier is a high-energy, brainy breed that works hard and plays harder. Their love for action is rivaled only by their love for family, but don’t expect them to slow down for you. You’ll just have to pick up the pace.

Temperament

Quick-Witted, Vigilant, Eager

Weight

9–15 pounds

Height

10–12 inches

Life Expectancy

12–14 years

Maintenance Level

Friendliness

Coat Color

White with Tan, Brown, and/or Black Markings

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The Russell Terrier is similar to the more widely known Parson Russell Terrier, aka the Jack Russell Terrier. And while they may be shorter in length than the average baguette, the breed’s energy stretches for days.

After all, these sprightly dogs were designed for fox hunting, a task where stamina, smarts, and even their compact size are key to their success. So regardless of whether they make their home on a farm or in a flat, Russell Terriers need a job—which can include anything from hunting and hiking to a game of fetch in the backyard.

Russell Terrier Characteristics

Remember: Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.

Exercise Needs

Health Issues

Grooming Needs

Training Needs

Shedding Level

Friendliness

Playfulness

Energy Level

Barking Tendencies

Good for Apartments and Small Homes

Sensitive to Cold Weather

Sensitive to Warm Weather

Good for First-Time Pet Parents

Russell Terrier Appearance

Russell Terriers are small but mighty in both build and ability. The breed standard describes them as “strong, active, lithe … with a flexible body of moderate length and rectangular profile.”

Their weatherproof coat is predominantly white with tan, brown, and/or black markings and comes in three different types: smooth, rough, and broken (somewhere between smooth and rough).

Ears
The Russell Terrier’s small, triangular ears fold downward so the points are even with the corners of their eyes. The fold is either in line with the top of the head or just above it.
Eyes
Russell Terrier eyes are dark, alert, and shaped like almonds.
Nose
They have a black, fully pigmented nose.
Coat Length
The Russell Terrier’s coat varies from short to medium in length and comes in one of three textures: smooth, rough, or broken.
Coat Color
Russell Terriers are mostly white and have black, brown, and/or tan markings.
Tail
Russell Terriers carry their high-set tail straight or slightly curved forward when on the move or when alert. It’s common to see their tail docked short, though this is a controversial practice that veterinary organizations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association, oppose.

Russell Terrier Temperament

The Russell Terrier’s working dog DNA is key to understanding their temperament. Designed for long days chasing down foxes and making quick decisions, the breed is vigilant and feisty, with intellect and energy in ample supply.

As the breed standard notes, the Russell Terrier’s “intensity for life is one of their most endearing traits,” and you’ll soon notice that this intensity isn’t limited to work. Russell Terriers are eager, tireless playmates and devoted companions.

One trait that is less endearing, however, is their propensity for barking. While prized during hunting, their vocal talents are less welcome in the home. Early socialization and consistent training can help nip the noise.

Russell Terriers can make fast friends with humans and dogs alike. But because of their hunting background and prey drive, caution is needed when introducing them to smaller animals like cats. And they may be a bit too lively to be a playmate for very young children.

Russell Terriers are naturally intelligent dogs and keen to learn. But with a mind and body that’s always on the move, it can be difficult to keep Russell Terriers focused on training.

Similar in size and pet care needs as the Russell Terrier

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How to Care for a Russell Terrier

A small dog like the Russell Terrier can seem easier to care for, and in many ways that’s true. They need less space and less food, and have less fur to maintain. They’re also easy to tote around when needed.

However, what Russell Terriers lack in size, they more than make up for in spirit, which could cause frustration for first-time pet parents expecting a laid-back lap dog. The Russell’s need for attention, daily exercise, and lifelong training are best met by experienced and active dog parents.

Like most dogs bred for outdoor work, the Russell Terrier has purposely low-maintenance grooming requirements.

Brushing: Smooth-coated Russell Terriers need only a weekly once-over with a soft brush or grooming glove, while broken- and rough-coated dogs need a brushing or combing once a week. Looking au naturel is the norm, and their shedding is moderate.
Bathing: Regardless of coat type, an occasional bath should be sufficient.
Ear care: Check their ears regularly for signs of infection. Your vet might recommend adding ear cleaning to your grooming routine if your Russell is prone to ear infections.
Dental care: Brush your dog’s teeth every day with a dog-safe toothpaste and toothbrush. This is the best way to prevent dental disease.
Nail care: Trim their nails every few weeks.

The fact that Russell Terriers are quick-witted and eager doesn’t necessarily mean they are a breeze to train. Their working-dog habits, like barking and digging, can take time to curb, and their attention can be difficult to maintain. However, there are steps you can take to help your Russell Terrier thrive.

Socialization should begin as soon as you bring your Russell Terrier puppy home. Talk to your veterinarian about age-appropriate activities that will introduce your puppy to different animals, people, environments, and objects that will help them feel comfortable in a wide variety of settings as they grow.

Consistent, lifelong training is also important. Rewards-based training that uses praise instead of punishment is the best way to help your Russell Terrier learn. They are highly capable students, but they will tune you out and pursue more exciting endeavors if they get bored.

The more active and entertaining your training approach, the more likely they are to stay engaged.

There isn’t one best nutritional plan for Russell Terriers because no two dogs are exactly alike. However, there are a few basic guidelines you can follow:

Talk to your veterinarian about finding a dog food that meets the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
While the feeding guide found on the dog food bag label gives a general idea of how much to feed your dog based on their weight, your veterinarian can provide a much more precise amount that considers your Russell Terrier’s weight, age, body condition score, lifestyle, and specific health needs.
Adult Russell Terriers typically need to eat two times a day, but Russell Terrier puppies may need more frequent meals to prevent low blood sugar. Let your veterinarian help you determine the best feeding plan for your dog.
Treats can add up quickly in a dog as small as the Russell Terrier, so be sure to factor them into the daily calorie count. Dog treats should only account for 10% or less of your pup’s daily calories.
Offer your Russell Terrier their meals in a slow feeder bowl or puzzle toy to provide much-needed mental stimulation.

Russell Terriers are compact bundles of seemingly limitless energy. Plan to provide 90–120 minutes of mental and physical exercise a day. That’s a big commitment, so make sure you’re able to keep up with this breed before bringing a Russell Terrier puppy home.

Russells will love joining you on a walk, but walks alone will not be enough for this high-energy breed. Fill your schedule with:

Hikes
Fetch
Agility
Flyball
Rally
Lure coursing
Nose work
Food puzzles
Obedience training
Skills training

Because of their high prey drive, all outdoor exercise must occur on a leash or within a fenced area. Otherwise, your Russell Terrier may run into danger—literally.

Thanks to their size and good nature, Russell Terriers can easily adapt to most environments. What’s most important is that their daily needs for mental and physical exercise are met.

A large backyard and/or close proximity to walking trails and dog parks aren’t must-haves, but these perks can certainly make your job easier. And if your Russell Terrier has a difficult time suppressing their barking instincts, having neighbors close by (or perhaps even sharing a wall with them) could cause some frustration.

The ideal family for a Russell Terrier would include at least one experienced dog parent who has the skills and patience to socialize and train a high-energy working dog. The breed can live well with both humans and other dogs, but smaller animals could be mistaken for something to chase. Russell Terrier-cat relationships have the best chance of success if the dog is raised alongside their feline family member.

Russell Terriers can get along well with children, particularly those who are old enough to know how to safely interact with an energetic pup. Very young kids may be easily overwhelmed or tripped by a dog who’s always on the move.

Russell Terrier Health

The average Russell Terrier lifespan is 12–14 years. They are a generally healthy breed but, like all dogs, they are prone to develop certain health conditions. It’s important to partner with an ethical breeder who prioritizes health and genetic testing.

Common health considerations include:

Patellar luxation: Patellar luxation occurs when the patella (kneecap) moves outside of its normal groove within the femur. Dogs with luxating patella may have to hop or limp when walking, and you may hear a popping or cracking sound coming from the knee joint. The condition doesn’t always require treatment, but severe cases may need surgery.
Congenital deafness: The Russell Terrier’s characteristic predominantly white coat puts the breed at a higher risk of carrying genes that cause deafness in one or both ears. While the deafness can’t be reversed, dogs don’t have to be limited by their hearing loss. With some adjustments and training, they can have an excellent quality and quantity of life.
Primary lens luxation: Dogs with a primary lens luxation (PLL) have an eye lens that has moved out of its normal position. One or both eyes may be affected. This can result in red, teary, cloudy, painful eyes and cause inflammation, glaucoma, and, if left untreated, blindness. When caught early, PLL can be managed and even corrected with medications and surgery.
Periodontal disease: Small dogs are particularly predisposed to developing periodontal disease (also called dental disease), a progressive condition in which bacteria build up in the mouth to the point that they damage teeth, gums, jaw bones, and other tissues. The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to brush your dog’s teeth every day and to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding professional cleanings.

Russell Terrier History

The Russell Terrier dog breed owes its creation to a 19th-century English reverend named John Russell.

Two different lines from his fox-working dogs were later developed into two distinct foxhunting breeds: the Russell Terrier and the Jack Russell (or Parson Russell) Terrier. For Russell Terriers, this development took place in Australia.

The Russell Terrier joined the American Kennel Club’s (AKC) Foundation Stock Service in 2005. And in 2012, the Russell Terrier became the 175th AKC-recognized breed (Terrier Group).

A Russell Terrier puppy can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500. You can also look for a dog to adopt at breed-specific rescues, like Russell Rescue.

FAQs

This content was medically reviewed by Hannah Hart, DVM, Chewy veterinarian.

Similar in size and pet care needs as the Russell Terrier

Russell Terrier