Breed Overview - Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier is a small, feisty and energetic Terrier breed, originally developed in England. This breed stands around 10-12 inches tall and weighs around 8-10 pounds. It has a square body that is longer than taller and a head with a flat skull and a medium length muzzle. It comes in a variety of coat colors, including black and tan, black and white, and tri-colored.

Care and Grooming

Russell Terriers need regular grooming on a weekly basis. This includes brushing their coat, trimming their nails, and cleaning their ears. They will also require regular baths and occasional visits to the groomer for a “tidy-up”. This breed also sheds lightly all year round.

Training and Socialization

Russell Terriers respond well to positive-reinforcement based obedience and socialization training. This breed is very intelligent and will learn quickly. To ensure a well-rounded pup, Russell Terriers should be adequately exposed to a variety of people, animals, and experiences so that they can learn correct behavior.

Health and Wellness

Russell Terriers can experience a number of health problems, so it is important for pet owners to stay vigilant. This breed is susceptible to common ailments like allergies, juvenile cataracts, and luxating patella, as well as more serious conditions like epilepsy. It is important to ensure the pup is up-to-date on all of their vaccinations and receive regular veterinary exams.

Living Environment

Russell Terriers are well suited for both indoor and outdoor living. They do best in a home with a securely fenced-in yard and a moderate climate. This breed has a high activity level, so plenty of exercise and mental stimulation are necessary. They should not be left alone for long periods of time, as they prefer constant companionship and stimulation.

Temperament and Personality

The Russell Terrier is a loyal, affectionate, and entertaining breed. They are very brave and energetic, and thrive in a loving home filled with plenty of activities and regular exercise. They make excellent companion dogs for all types of owners, but are not recommended for first-time owners, as they can be strong-willed and some might find them challenging to handle.

Common Challenges

Russell Terriers can sometimes be strong-willed and overexcited. It is important to use positive-reinforcement based training techniques to help them develop appropriate behavior. They may also require extra supervision around small pets, as they can be quite territorial. They may also exhibit barking habits, so it is important to properly train and socialize your pup to prevent excessive barking.