2026 Designated Specialty and Annual General Meeting of the PRTAA
October 1 - 4, 2026
What is the PRTAA?
The Parson Russell Terrier Association of America (PRTAA) is an organization devoted to the promotion, breeding, and working of the traditional Parson Russell, a breed originally developed by the
Parson John Russell himself (1795 - 1883). Established in 1985, the PRTAA was founded out of concern that the Parson Russell Terrier was often misrepresented as a short-legged terrier, rather than the well-proportioned terrier resembling a foxhound that it truly is.
The PRTAA is committed to honoring the original purpose of the Parson Russell Terrier, which was to hunt Red Fox both above and below ground. This mission informs the type of Terrier that the PRTAA endorses: A balanced terrier with a chest that can be spanned by moderate-sized hands, straight legs with a good bend of stifle, predominantly white coat with head, tail, and occasional body markings, and an alert, eager temperament. The ideal height for a mature Parson Russell Terrier is 14 inches at the withers for males and 13 inches for females.
As the American Kennel Club (AKC) Parent Club for the breed, the Parson Russell Terrier Association of America holds the responsibility and privilege of preserving the Breed Standard. Our members and breeders are eager to share their knowledge about this exceptional breed of terrier. While membership in our association is not necessary to participate in any PRTAA or AKC-sanctioned event, your dog must be registered with the AKC.
For those interested in becoming more involved, please visit the membership information page on our site or contact the PRTAA directly at Board2025@gmail.com.
Our Board of Directors and Committee Chairs
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDENT - Rita Ford
VICE PRESIDENT - John Conley
SECRETARY - Julie Weaver
CORRESPONDING SECRETARY - Sharon Hipps
TREASURER - Michelle Freshour
DIRECTOR - Liane Paulson
DIRECTOR - Janine Rose
DIRECTOR - Glen Sanchez
DIRECTOR - Mary Strom
AKC DELEGATE - Janine Rose
COMMITTEES
BREED STANDARD COMMITTEE - Rita Ford, Chair
BREEDER DIRECTORY - Michelle Freshour, Chair
BY-LAWS - Rita Ford, Chair
HEALTH AND GENETICS - Janine Rose, Chair
HISTORICAL
JUDGE'S EDUCATION - Mary Strom, Chair
JUDGE'S SELECTION - Janine Rose, Chair
MEDIA COMMITTEE - Denise Tschida, Chair
MEET THE BREEDS - Janine Rose, Chair
MEMBERSHIP - Denise Tschida, Chair
NATIONAL SPECIALTY 2026 - Lance Wange Nobriga, Chair
PERFORMANCE
VERSATILITY - John Conley, Chair
WEBMASTER - Denise Tschida - chibbey@mac.com
Support Your Committees!
Some of our committees need members. If you are a PRTAA member in good standing and can offer your skills or time, we welcome you! You have untapped, valuable resources, and we appreciate them. Your support makes a significant difference! Please email us at board2025@prtaa.org. Thank you!
