HISTORY OF THE BREED
The history of the Euro Russell is both old and new. As
far back as the 1600's huntsmen in the British Isles used a
solid and other colored terrier known by many names.
These dogs were bred by men who selected stock based
on "gameness" or hunting abilities. A type of hunting terrier,
not a show dog, little documentation such as pedigrees or
breed history was kept on these dogs. Good dogs
continued to be bred by dedicated terrier enthusiasts and
Euro Russells were undoubtedly used in the formation of
several more modern terrier breeds.
A working dog, and not recognized by a kennel club, Euro
Russells did not enjoy the popularity some terriers saw in
the 20th century. That, coupled with a general decline in
the demand for sporting terriers, causing Euro Russell
numbers to near extinction. However, a few dogs
remained on the farms of England and Ireland. Beginning
in the 1970's, Euro Russells were imported to America.
The Euro Russell Club of America was formed to
secure a future for the Euro Russell. There are not many
Euro Russells, but those that own them are passionate
about keeping these great dogs around.
The ERCA is working to further develop breed type and
maintain an accurate registry for the Euro Russell. It is our
goal to take the Euro Russell into a major kennel club in the
future. Hopefully, with kennel club acceptance, the Euro
Russell will gain the recognition it deserves.
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FACTS OF THE BREED
What is the difference between a Jack Russell
Terrier/Russell Terrier and a Euro Russell?
The difference is mainly one of color. Euro Russells do not
meet the breed standard in regard to color of any Jack
Russell registries (51% white, legs and belly must be
white). So, to give our terriers the recognition they
deserve, they were given a different name. Euro Russells
are often referred to as black and tan jacks or golden
jacks. While this makes sense in a way, it really is
incorrect since Jacks are mostly white dog.
Do Euro Russells make good pets?
Yes very good ones! Today these dogs aren't used for
hunting like in the past. They are raise and sold to be
quality family pets. Euro Russells are great family dogs
too. They are a terrier and do require some exercise.
However, they are more laid back and less aggressive
than many terriers. Euro Russells are very attentive, loyal
companion
What activities do Euro Russells participate in?
Euro Russells are working dogs bred to hunt vermin in the
ground. For this reason, Euro Russells excel in earth trials.
They are also very intelligent and agile making them
equally suitable for racing, agility, fly ball and obedience.
What registries accept Euro Russells?
The ERCA is the only registry for our breed at this time.
The ERCA is working toward future recognition by a
kennel club.
What health concerns do Euro Russells have?
Euro Russells are a relatively healthy, hearty breed.
Luxating patellas (knee dislocates easily) can be a
concern. Fortunately, breeding stock can be evaluated for
this before breeding.
Where can I get a Euro Russell?
Euro Russells are relatively rare in the US. There are a
few dedicated breeders in this country. You can also find
them in Europe, especially in England and Ireland where
they were developed.
Facts Puppy Dog Tails
We have many questions and debates whether or not the
Euro Russell and or Jack Russell Terriers should have
their tails docked. While it is accepted here in the states. It
is not accepted or illegal in Europe, Ireland and the
Netherlands to dock tails. Whether the tail is docked or
not it is still a Euro Russell. Here is some history.
"Docking of the tails on farmer's or drovers' dogs used for
herding or driving cattle and sheep originated in early
Georgian times in England, when it exempted the owner
from a tax and levied upon working dogs with tails. This
was a case of putting profit before the welfare of animals.
Many other types of dogs were also similarly docked to
avoid this luxury tax, an although this imposition was
repealed in 1796, sadly the habit of docking particular
breeds has remained. It is thought that approximately
one-third of all recognized pure dog breeds have
traditionally been docked. These days the most often
cited reasons for tail docking are related to the prevention
of tail damage, hygiene, the maintenance of breed quality
and tradition".
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