Russell Terrier
Quick Summary
Energetic, intelligent terriers best suited for active owners. Excellent companions for those seeking an alert, compact dog. Requires consistent exercise and training commitment.
Contents
Weight Range
9-15 lbs
♂ Male: N/A lbs
♀ Female: N/A lbs
Height Range
25-30 inches
♂ Male: N/A"
♀ Female: N/A"
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #48
Above Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Terrier Group
Originally bred for Developed in England during the 1800s for fox hunting and vermin control
Popularity
#82
Moderately popular breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | "-" |
| Female Height | "-" |
| Male Weight | - lbs |
| Female Weight | - lbs |
| Coat Length | /5 |
| Drooling Level | /5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include purchase price ($800-$1500), supplies, and vaccinations. Monthly expenses cover quality food, preventive care, and routine veterinary visits. Consider training classes and grooming supplies.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Alert and lively terriers with high energy levels and strong hunting instincts. Display confident, friendly temperaments but require proper socialization. Independent nature balanced with affectionate family bonds.
Social Needs
Requires regular human interaction and mental stimulation. Generally good with family but may be reserved with strangers. Can be independent but benefits from consistent companionship and structured activities.
Breed Overview
Russell Terriers are compact, muscular dogs with distinctive V-shaped ears and alert expressions. Their strong, flexible bodies feature a balanced proportion between height and length. The predominantly white coat may have tan or black markings, remaining harsh and weather-resistant. These agile terriers move with purpose and precision, displaying the athletic build essential for their historical hunting abilities.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Highly energetic and playful
- ✓ Compact size suits various homes
- ✓ Intelligent and trainable
- ✓ Low grooming requirements
Cons
- ✗ High exercise needs
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Can be stubborn
- ✗ May be vocal
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Alert, Inquisitive, Lively |
| Energy Level | Needs Lots of Activity |
| Trainability | Agreeable |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Occasional |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including high-intensity activities like agility training, fetch, and structured walks. These energetic terriers thrive on varied exercise routines that challenge both mind and body.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 1-1.5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for portion control to prevent weight gain. Active lifestyle demands nutrient-rich diet with adequate protein.
Feed 1-1.5 cups of premium dry dog food daily, divided into two meals. Choose age-appropriate formulas with high protein content. Monitor portion sizes to prevent weight gain, considering activity level and age.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adaptable to apartment living with sufficient exercise, but benefits from fenced yards. Thrives in both urban and rural settings, requiring secure boundaries due to strong prey drive.
Minimum space requirements are modest due to small size, but secure outdoor areas are essential. Adapts well to various living situations when exercise needs are met. Fenced yards prevent wandering.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
British hunters developed these small, agile terriers to pursue foxes into their dens. Their compact size and fearless nature made them invaluable hunting partners, particularly in areas where larger fox terriers couldn't access tight spaces.
Historical Purpose
Developed in England during the 1800s for fox hunting and vermin control. These small terriers excelled at pursuing quarry underground, demonstrating remarkable courage and tenacity.
Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Russell Terriers can jump up to five times their own height!
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Regular exercise crucial to prevent boredom. Weekly brushing maintains coat condition. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.