Russell Terrier Breeders

With An Eye On The Breed

Pamela "Pam" Simmons

Corn Row Kennel - Russell Terriers

Adapted from Barbara "BJ" Andrews' ShowSight Magazine Simple Seven Breed Interviews

TDP:  What is the biggest misconception about the Russell Terrier?

PS: The biggest misconception is that the Russell is a short, bench legged dog with a very long, thick, over muscled body. The Russell is not the “stable dog” most remember. He is a straight legged terrier with a rectangular silhouette having equal leg length to body depth.

TDP  What is the Russell’s most defining characteristic?

PS: His rectangular profile which is slightly longer than tall when measured from point of shoulder to point of buttock as well as his height ratio of 50/50, i.e. his elbow and brisket bottom form the midline of the dog. Chests are never to hang below the elbow.

TDP  Which behavioral characteristic most typifies the breed.

PS: His undying love for his master and his need to be ever present at his side.

TDP  What is the most common judging mistake in Russell Terriers.

PS: Actually there is more than one mistake. Fuzzy cute faces are awarded over very correct smooth coated exhibits. “Cute” is not verbiage contained within the standard; there is no preference to coat type or marking. Judges often ignore the height restrictions, under 10” as well as over 12” and fail to measure the questionable dogs. To do that blurs the line between the Russell and the Parson. If judges ignore the proportional requirements stated in the standard, i.e. slightly longer than tall and the 50/50 profile height ratio, no chest hanging below the elbow, such mistakes will adversely alter breed type, usually forever.

TDP  Would you prefer the Russell be judged standing or moving?

PS: Moving, I was always taught to examine them on the table and judge them on the ground. Efficiency of movement determines effectiveness and longevity in the field.

TDP  What cosmetic alterations should judges know about.

PS: Fixed ears and tails.

TDP  What 3 words best describe the Russell Terrier?

PS: Very intelligent, Loyal and Energetic.

TDP  JoAnn, there's a few more questions I'd like to add to the Simple 7.  Are you agreeable?

PS: Yes, I'm happy to talk about the Russell Terrier breed.

TDP  Do you worry about over-grooming in the Russell ring?

PS: Yes I do. At this point many exhibitors bring dirty ungroomed dogs to the ring. Hopefully, that will quickly change. I think the biggest fear is the over groomed, sculpted dogs with posted legs. Judges and handlers seem to prize the extremes in grooming as a symbol of quality. Sculpting hides a great number of faults and is contrary to correct breed type.

TDP  Should judges check the underside to determine coat quality?

PS: Yes. Grounding dogs require covering for protection. After spanning the dog I take my thumb and run it against the hair to check for under coat as well as feeling for a harsh terrier jacket. At this time one can quickly see the belly and inner thighs. The correct weatherproof double coat is paramount for the dogs’ work. The Russells’ work requires that his coat protect him from briars and brambles above ground as well as cold wet tunnels under ground. His coat protects him from hyperthermia.

TDP  Could the “reach & drive” fad be problematic for Russells?

PS:  Yes. Reach and drive, IMO, are but one half of the movement coin. The other half is coming and going. Russells are to have equal reach to drive and should double track at slower speeds, converging as speed increases. Correctness in both views constitutes balanced movement in a dog.

TDP  Is docking an issue in the Russell Terrier?

PS:  No, it is optional.

TDP  Which is more important: Russell soundness or appearance?

PS: Soundness. The Russell Terrier is an actual working terrier, first and foremost. He is a form follows function canine. If he is unsound, he has limited long term use in the field and is generally unsuitable for hunt service as he is unable to perform his duties effectively and efficiently over the long haul. His usefulness is rapidly diminished over time.

TDP  How important is Russell Terrier character and personality?

PS: Character and personality are very important in a Russell, it is an integral part of correct breed type. Russells are to be confident yet not at all quarrelsome with each other.

TDP  What is the most important contribution you feel your breeding program has made to the Russell Terrier?

PS:  Adherence to correct breed type while producing a well-balanced dog.

On behalf of all students of the Russell Terrier breed, we thank Pam Simmons for taking the time to provide this information.