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Plummer Terrier
Terrier breed from United Kingdom
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Plummer Terrier
The Plummer Terrier is a small, smooth-coated terrier with a red and white coat, originating in the United Kingdom. It is classified in the Terrier group and its recognition status varies by registry. The breed is described as intelligent, courageous, energetic, alert, and work-focused. Adult males and females weigh an estimated 5–8 kg and stand 28–36 cm tall. Lifespan is estimated at 12–15 years. Energy and trainability scores are high (5 and 4 out of 5, respectively), while grooming needs are low (score 1). Shedding is low (score 2). Suitability for children is moderate (3), compatibility with other dogs is lower (2), and apartment suitability is also lower (2). These scores are estimates and individual dogs may vary.
Quick facts
Plummer Terrier at a glance
Sizesmall
Breed groupTerrier
OriginUnited Kingdom
Lifespan12–15 years
Male weight5–8 kilogram
Female weight5–8 kilogram
Male height28–36 centimetre
Female height28–36 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Plummer Terrier was developed in the United Kingdom, according to one source, by Dr. David Brian Plummer in the 1960s. The breed was created by crossing Jack Russell Terriers, Beagles, Fell Terriers, and Bull Terriers. The goal was to produce a hardy, versatile working terrier specialized for fox control and vermin hunting. The breed's history is tied to its working purpose, but specific dates of recognition or further historical events are not provided in the available facts. The Plummer Terrier is described as a small, energetic working terrier with a distinctive smooth red and white coat. It was bred specifically for vermin control and is known for its tenacious, fearless nature and athletic build. The breed's origins are firmly in the United Kingdom, and it remains classified within the Terrier group. However, its recognition status is not uniform across all registries, and the exact timeline of its development beyond the 1960s is not detailed in the supplied information. Uncertainty exists regarding the precise historical timeline and the breed's recognition by various kennel clubs. The facts indicate that the breed's recognition status varies by registry, meaning it may be recognized by some organizations but not others. No specific dates of recognition or historical milestones are available in the provided data.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
5–8 kilogramAdult weight28–36 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesSmoothCoat colorsRed and whiteRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentcourageousenergeticalertwork-focused
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Plummer Terrier-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 5
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Growth chart
Plummer Terrier puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight5–8 kilogramAdult female weight5–8 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Plummer Terrier?
Adult Plummer Terriers weigh an estimated 5–8 kg and stand 28–36 cm tall at the shoulder. Their lifespan is estimated at 12–15 years. These figures are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Plummer Terrier?
The breed is described as intelligent, courageous, energetic, alert, and work-focused. However, individual dogs may vary in temperament.
How much exercise does a Plummer Terrier need?
The Plummer Terrier has a high energy score (5 out of 5), indicating a need for regular, vigorous exercise. They were bred as working terriers, so they likely require ample physical activity.
What are the grooming requirements for a Plummer Terrier?
Grooming needs are low (score 1 out of 5) due to their smooth coat. Shedding is also low (score 2). Occasional brushing should suffice.
Is a Plummer Terrier suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Child suitability is moderate (score 3 out of 5), but compatibility with other dogs is lower (score 2). Early socialization and supervision are recommended.
Can a Plummer Terrier live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is lower (score 2 out of 5), likely due to their high energy levels. They may do better in a home with a yard.
Where does the Plummer Terrier originate from?
The Plummer Terrier originates from the United Kingdom, developed in the 1960s by Dr. David Brian Plummer from crosses of Jack Russell Terrier, Beagle, Fell Terrier, and Bull Terrier.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.