Russell Terrier Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI
About the Russell Terrier
The Russell Terrier is a small, sturdy, predominantly white working terrier developed from the fox-hunting terriers bred by the Reverend John Russell. Compact and rectangular in build, it stands lower than its cousin the Parson Russell and comes in smooth, broken, and rough coats. Bold, energetic, and fearless, it was bred to bolt foxes from their dens and retains a keen prey drive, lively curiosity, and tireless drive. Intelligent and quick to learn, the Russell Terrier is an outstanding competitor in agility, earthdog, and trick sports. It is affectionate and playful with its family but demands substantial exercise and mental work to stay out of mischief.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
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Browse all puppiesWhere this breed shines
- Intelligent, athletic, and a standout in dog sports
- Bold, lively, and affectionate with its family
- Compact and adaptable with modest grooming needs
Things to consider
- High energy and prey drive require ample exercise and secure fencing
- Can dig, bark, and get into mischief if under-stimulated
- Terrier independence needs consistent, engaging training
History
The Russell Terrier traces to the working fox terriers bred in 19th-century England by the Reverend John Russell, with the smaller, shorter-legged type further developed and standardized in Australia. It is distinct from the taller Parson Russell Terrier and the working Jack Russell type. The breed is recognized by the FCI and joined the AKC Terrier Group in 2012.
Temperament
Alert, confident, and energetic, the Russell Terrier is a bold, intelligent worker with a strong prey drive and terrier tenacity. It is affectionate, playful, and lively with its family, thriving on interaction and activity. Its cleverness and drive require consistent training, secure containment, and plenty of physical and mental outlets to prevent boredom and digging.
Questions to ask a Russell Terrier breeder
- Are the parents screened for patellar luxation, eye disease, and deafness?
- What coat type is this litter and what grooming does it need?
- What is the temperament and energy level of the parents?
Health considerations to discuss
Patellar luxation. Kneecap slipping occurs in small terriers; ask for evaluations.
Primary lens luxation. Inherited eye condition; DNA testing is available.
Deafness. Seen in some predominantly white dogs; ask about BAER testing.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC Russell Terrier · FCI Breed Standards — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Russell Terrier litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Russell Terrier puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Russell Terrier listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How can I tell if a Russell Terrier breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.