ENJOYING LIFE WITH YOUR
PARSON RUSSELL TERRIER

AT HOME

Although bred originally for work by Rev. John Russell, it is said that he enjoyed their company so much that many, if not all, lived in the house with him. In keeping with this tradition most Parson Russell Terriers today will settle happily into a family situation and will more than earn their keep by the loyal companionship they offer.

AGILITY

The Breed Standard for Parson Russell Terriers states that they should be "active and agile " and these characteristics lend themselves extremely well to agility training. Parson Russell Terriers are natural athletes. Their size dictates that they must compete in mini-agility which provides a course for dogs of up to 15 inches at the withers and the photographs clearly illustrate just what the terriers themselves think about it-agility really is right up their street. There are many training clubs for agility and , although they may not all cater for the smaller breeds, they should be able to put you in touch with a group which has a mini course suitable for your Parson Russell Terrier.

WORKING TERRIERS

Kennel Club registration does not prevent Parson Russell Terriers from working and on many show occasions there are dogs present that follow dual careers as show dog and worker. Recognition by the Kennel Club certainly secured the survival of the breed while the future of hunting and the working of dogs seems to hang in the balance. Parson Russell Terriers are described as "workmanlike " and the presence of working terriers in the show ring serves as an excellent reminder of the purpose for which the Reverend John Russell so selectively bred them.

PAT DOGS

Pets As Therapy is a charitable organisation which provides visiting dogs, accompanied by their owner, to patients in hospital, in residential care or anywhere where a regular visit from a dog is considered to be a benefit. All dogs are volunteered by their owners and have to pass a temperament test before they are accepted as a PAT dog. Before considering whether your dog is suitable to undertake this work, each owner must also consider whether they have the time and commitment to reliably undertake the regular visits required by this scheme. (Owners of PAT Dogs are members of the sister charity PRO Dogs that provides the necessary insurance cover.)

OBEDIENCE AND TRAINING

The traditional work of the PJRT requires them to act , without guidance, while alone underground and that streak of independence which allows them to work so effectively is apparent even in non-working terriers. Consequently obedience work with a PJRT can be fun but it is challenging. PJRTs are easily bored by repetition and an inventive mind is a huge asset to help to maintain the terrier's interest in the training exercises . PJRTs do not suffer fools gladly but they can ,and do ,succeed at obedience trials. If you are new to obedience training, or dog training of any sort , an excellent starting point is The Kennel Club's "Good Citizen " Training Scheme. This is a programme of "good manners " training (basic obedience) to help you to ensure that your terrier's behaviour is acceptable while out and about or at home. The course is non competitive as the scheme's aim is to promote responsible dog ownership but there is a certificate of competence at the end of the course.
© -Cass Samways. (Cassacre)

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