How to Determine Coat Type in Parson Puppies

Parson Russell terriers are recognized as a purebred pedigree breed by the American Kennel Club. Parson Russell terriers are a close relative of the Jack Russell terrier with only the slightest difference of height separating the two breeds. Both breeds are named after their originator Reverend John "Jack" Russell. Parson Russell terriers have three different coat types. Determining a Parson Russell terrier puppy's coat type can be challenging.

Things You'll Need

  • Reputable breeder
  • American Kennel Club breed overview
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find an experienced breeder who will be likely to correctly determine the puppy's coat type. A reputable breeder often only breeds one coat type, eliminating any guesswork. If possible, try to find a local breeder so you can inspect the puppies first hand. Finding a reputable local breeder or rescue group through a veterinarian, the American Kennel Club or the Parson Russell Terrier Association of America is recommended.

    • 2

      Review the American Kennel Club breed overview to learn about Parson Russell terriers and their different coat types. It is very difficult to determine Parson puppy's coat type before six weeks of age. Usually coat type is determined by breeding. If both parents have smooth coats, the puppies are likely to have smooth coats as well. When picking a pup from a mixed litter, where one of the parents is a rough coat and the other a smooth or broken coat, the coat type is often determined by chance. Some breeders claim they can feel the differences in the types of fur. Occasionally pups from a mixed litter are obviously one coat or another. Other puppies may appear to have a particular type of coat, then change, with the true final coat not being revealed for several more weeks.

    • 3

      View the potential puppy closely. If at all possible, visit the breeder to view and hold the potential Parson pup. If the breeder is not local, ask for numerous well-focused pictures. The difference in coat length on a puppy can be very subtle. As you inspect the puppy, ask yourself; Does the puppy's fur appear to be one length, lending to the smooth coat? Does the fur appear to be slightly longer on the head and shorter on the back like a broken coat? Does the puppy appear to have slightly longer fur all over, resembling a tiny rough coat?

    • 4

      Pet the puppy, taking note of the texture of the fur. The smoother the coat, the more likely it is that the puppy is a smooth-coat Parson Russell. The coarser the fur, the more likely is it a rough coat. Ask the breeder to assist in determining the texture of the fur by pointing out the subtle differences in the often very soft fur of Parson Russell terrier puppy.