Jack Russell Terrier pros and cons
Owning a Jack Russell Terrier comes with lots of advantages and some disadvantages. Jack Russell Terrier pros include the breed's active and curious temperament, these small dogs are highly intelligent and make lively animal companions for the right owners. Jack Russell Terriers are courageous fox hunting dogs with lots of stamina to successfully pursue their prey. Ideal owner for Jack Russell Terrier is a seasoned dog owner who understands the cons and pros of owning this highly energetic breed. Active families with older kids and energetic seniors who enjoy long walks with their pets can consider this rather demanding breed. Smooth coated Jack Russell Terriers are easier to groom in comparison to Jack Russell Terriers with broken coat.
Disadvantages associated with owning a Jack Russell Terrier include the dog's high energy. Jack Russell Terriers require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation during the day. Training a Jack Russell Terrier can be difficult because this is a determined small dog with lots of character and independent spirit. Potential owners need to be prepared to spend plenty of time with the dog every day that should include long walks, mental activities such as training and channeling the dog's abundant energy into positive activities. Jack Russell Terriers aren't recommended for small apartments as this highly energetic breed needs a nice yard to run around and explore during the day. A bored Jack Russell Terrier is capable of various destructive behaviors that may include ripped furniture and chewed up shoes and scratched up doors. Other cons of owning a Jack Russell Terrier breed include potential for aggressive tendencies towards other dogs. Sufficient socialization is very important for this breed.
Parson Russell Terrier vs Jack Russell
Although there are many similarities between Parson Russell and Jack Russell terriers, there are certain differences present between these two different breeds.
Parson Russell Terrier versus Jack Russell height
Parson Russell Terrier is taller and is 13 to 14 inches (33 - 35.6 cm) tall, while Jack Russell terrier is shorter and is 10 to 15 inches (25.4 to 38.1 cm) tall.
Parson Russell Terrier compared to Jack Russell coat
Parson Russell Terriers feature smooth or broken coat. Jack Russell Terriers feature smooth, broken, or rough coat.
Parson Russell Terrier vs Jack Russell registration
Parson Russell Terrier is registered by the AKC (with representation by the JRTAA, CPRTA, and KC). Jack Russell Terrier is registered by the JRTCA, JRTCBG, and UKC.
Parson Russell Terrier vs Jack Russell origin
Both breeds originated in England.
Despite these differences between the two fox hunting types of terriers, there are many significant similarities present. Russells have similar temperaments, a lot of courage and the ability to solve problems on their own.
Jack Russell Terrier size
How big are Jack Russell Terriers?
Jack Russell Terrier weight
Jack Russell Terrier male weight: 14 to 18 lb (6.4 to 8.2 kg)
Jack Russell Terrier female weight: 14 to 18 lb (6.4 to 8.2 kg)
Jack Russell Terrier size
Jack Russell Terrier male height: 9.84 to 14.96 in (25 to 38 cm)
Jack Russell Terrier female height: 9.84 to 14.96 in (25 to 38 cm)
Jack Russell Terrier coat: smooth or rough coated Jack Russells (broken coated)
Jack Russell Terrier colors: white coat with tan, brown or black markings
How many puppies can Jack Russell Terriers have?
Jack Russell Terrier litter size: 1to 8 puppies
Jack Russell life span average: 13 to 16 years
How much does a Jack Russell Terrier cost?
Jack Russell Terrier price starts at around $800 and up, depending on many factors
Jack Russell Terrier shedding
Do Jack Russell Terriers shed? Yes, Jack Russell Terriers do shed. Smooth coated Jack Russell terriers tend to shed more abundantly than broken coated Jack Russells. Brushing the dog will help to keep shedding to a minimum. Furminator is an effective deshedding tool for Jack Russell Terriers.
Jack Russell Terrier personality
Jack Russell Terriers have lively, energetic personalities and physical traits that reflect their fox-hunting heritage. This small hunting terrier breed was designed to bolt small game, mostly fox, from their lairs for the hunters. Small size of Jack Russell terrier enables this working dog to enter and maneuver in the underground fox den. These hunting dogs were required to run long distances to follow horses and hounds and needed lots of energy and stamina to be successful in pursuit of their prey. Jack Russell Terriers are excellent jumpers and can jump about five times their own height! The predominantly white coat helps to make Jack Russell Terrier visible in the grass. Jack Russell Terriers are known for their courageous and independent temperament that was necessary in order to fearlessly go after the fox into the den and face their quarry. Jack Russells are highly intelligent and alert and because they are working terriers, the owner of this breed will need to provide this dog with plenty of exercise and training every day to manage this high energy dog. Many Jack Russell terriers end up in dog shelters because the owners did not learn enough about the breed before they got their family pet. If you are considering getting a Jack Russell terrier, ask yourself if you are willing to spend lots of time and energy on providing this small but very energetic dog breed with enough daily activities to keep him from getting bored and destructive? Jack Russell Terriers need to run for at least 30 minutes each day. This determined small terrier can be an outstanding companion for the owner who understands this dog breed and knows how to properly channel his endless energy.
Jack Russell terriers like to bark and their high prey drive will inspire these hunting dogs to chase small animals, cats, birds, squirrels and anything that moves. A dog who is brave enough to take on a cornered fox has certain characteristics that may make this breed difficult to manage for an inexperienced dog owner. This compact dog has a high tolerance for pain or discomfort and has a tendency to defend himself. Jack Russell terrier is a clever dog with impressive problem-solving abilities that contribute to making this dog a good candidate for various sports such as agility, flyball, obedience, racing, lure coursing and rally obedience. Left undirected he may become destructive of the owner's possessions, he will start barking excessively, digging in the backyard, chasing neighborhood animals, joggers and children (the dog will ignore your attempt to call him as his prey drive will get him too excited while he is chasing) and do other things that many owners would consider destructive. The clever terrier breed is known for getting out of fenced yards by digging under them. Jack Russell Terrier may become aggressive towards other animals and may get into a dog fight that may end tragically for himself or his opponent. If you have more than one Jack Russell Terrier, they may team up against any running animal and may work together as a pack to hurt or even kill a larger dog or any other animal that they consider a prey. For the owner of this breed it is important to understand the dog's strong instincts and to always be watchful whenever there are other animals present around your Jack Russell Terrier. Are Jack Russell Terriers good with kids? Children should always be supervised and taught how to properly handle a dog. Jack Russell Terriers may get aggressive with children when provoked. If your child is poking the dog or pulling the dog's ears or tail, or tries to take the dog's food or toys, Jack Russell terrier may take this behavior as a threat and will defend himself by growling, snapping or even biting. Jack Russell Terriers can successfully live with children but only when properly supervised and socialized from the young age. This small and feisty dog is a good match for an experienced, active dog owner who has a high tolerance for canine mischief and a good sense of humor. Socializing this small terrier breed is extremely important.
How to train Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers have a determined personality and despite being very intelligent, they can be tough to train for a novice dog owner. Start training your Jack Russell Terrier while he is still a young puppy and establish your leadership from the very start. Many Jack Russell Terriers can be dominant and teaching respect does not mean that you should hit or treat your dog in a rough manner. On the contrary, physical punishments are ineffective and will only cause your dog to react defensively to physical corrections. The dog will only become more fierce and determined when handled in a rough way, which is counterproductive. Use positive motivation techniques such as praise, play and treats and you will build a relationship of trust with your dog.
Be patient with housetraining your Jack Russell Terrier. A young puppy doesn't have complete control of his bladder or bowels, and by the time he knows he has to go, he may not be able to hold it any longer. It's your job - not your puppy's - to keep him off your new carpet until he's reliable and to teach him where he should potty and supervise him carefully. Accidents are bound to happen during potty training. Do not punish your dog in case of an accident as this will only confuse the dog. Thoroughly clean up the mess as dogs tend to use the area that smells like dog urine as their potty area. Continue to monitor your Jack Russell Terrier for signs of readiness to use a potty area. The dog will sniff the floor and walk around in circles, looking for the best spot to use as his toilet. Immediately take the dog to the designated potty area and let him relieve himself there. Reward him with a small treat and a praise after he is done. After a while your dog will learn that he gets rewarded for using the designated potty area as his toilet. Reward the dog's good behavior and ignore the behavior that you would like to discourage.
Odor control quilted dog pads can be used for housetraining, dogs with working parents, dogs with incontinence, cleaning wet paws or fur, car travel and more.
Some Jack Russell owners choose to train their dog to ring a housetraining bell whenever the dog needs to go outside to relieve himself.
Jack Russell Terrier exercise requirements
If you want a peaceful and happy life with your Jack Russell terrier, find ways to channel his energy and exercise his body and mind every day. There are many creative ways to keep your dog busy, by teaching him to retrieve a ball or a toy, giving the dog a nice walk or try some organized dog sports such as agility, flyball, obedience, racing, lure coursing and rally obedience that will be fun for you and will keep your little working dog busy and out of trouble.
When you are letting your dog off the leash outside, be sure to only do so in a fenced area, as Jack Russells may easily take off. Jack Russell Terriers do great in houses with a backyard. This active dog may get into many troubles when confined to a life in an apartment with little exercise. Jack Russell Terrier can live in an apartment under the condition that the dog gets plenty of time walking outdoors every single day.
How to care for Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell terriers have different types of coat - some dogs feature smooth coat while others have broken coat. The smooth coated Russell sheds more. Brush your smooth coated Russell terrier daily, using a firm-bristle brush or a slicker brush, which has tiny metal teeth set into a flat backing. Rough coated Jack Russells feature a double coat that needs to be regularly brushed. Broken coat is a bit longer and usually Jack Russell Terriers with this type of coat have shaggy eyebrows and short beards. Flea comb can be useful when you think that your dog may have picked up some fleas. Comb through the dog's coat, paying attention to the hair behind his ears and above his tail.
Train your dog for baths as soon as you bring him home by providing the dog with treats as soon as you put him in a tub or a sink. At first do not add any water and place the dog into the tub or a sink, praise him and give him a treat. Continue putting the dog into the sink or the tub every day for a minute or so (gradually increasing the time) without actually giving him a bath at first. Reward him with a treat while he is in the tub. Your job is to get him used to being comfortable in the tub or in a sink. If the dog starts struggling to get out, hold him there gently but firmly, and talk to him quietly. When he stops struggling, take him out of the tub. When he gets out do not praise the dog and do not reward him. The dog needs to understand that he is rewarding for being still in the tub, not for getting out of the tub. When he is comfortable in the dry tub, add a little lukewarm water so he gets his feet wet and continue to reward him for accepting it. Be patient as it may take a few days or even weeks to get your dog comfortable with the process. Take your time and your dog will learn to enjoy his bathing time.
When bathing your dog, use canine shampoo. Never use human shampoo on your dog as it may irritate your dog's skin.
Start brushing your Jack Russell Terrier's teeth while he is still a puppy. Older Jack Russell Terriers can be trained to accept brushing their teeth but the dog will take a longer period of time to be fully comfortable with the procedure. Use canine toothpaste (human toothpaste is not safe for dogs and will cause irritation and stomach issues). Unhealthy teeth and gums are the main cause of "dog breath". Not brushing your dog's teeth regularly will result in plaque and then tartar buildup which will cause periodontal disease, resulting in abscesses, infection, and loss of teeth and bone. Your dog's overall health depends on the health of his teeth. Brush your dog's teeth daily to help prevent dental issues.
Trim your dog's nails as soon as you start hearing his nails making clicking sounds when the dog walks on hard surfaces. Nails that are allowed to grow too long will push the toes out of their normal position, distorting and potentially damaging the dog's feet.
Check your dog's ears by looking at and sniffing them. The skin inside the ear should be pink or flesh colored, not red or inflamed. A little wax may be present, but it shouldn't be excessive. If your dog's ears have a strong odor, or the dog is trying to shake his head or paw his ears, these may be a sign of ear infection in your dog. Take him to the vet asap to avoid serious damage.
Your Russell's eyes should be clear and moist. If you notice some cloudiness, it may indicate a cataract which can affect his vision. Talk to your veterinarian.
Keep your Jack Russell Terrier warm during the cold winter days with weather appropriate dog clothes. During the rainy days, have the dog wear a raincoat to keep him dry.
Jack Russell puppies
A Jack Russell Terrier puppy is ready for a new home when he is eight weeks of age or older. In case you are buying a terrier puppy, ask the seller how the puppies are handled. Each pup should spend one-on-one time every day with at least one person and begin potty training and other basic obedience commands no later than the seventh week. He won't be able to do everything perfectly for a while, but if you start teaching him simple things while he's very young, he will not only begin to learn specific behaviors, but he will learn how to learn, a skill tht will last him his whole life. If you want a well-adjusted adult Russell, do not get one who hasn't been handled between the seventh and twelfth weeks, and don't take one home this age if you can't spend lots of time with him.
If you are planning to buy a Jack Russell Terrier puppy from a breeder, select a responsible breeder. Most responsible breeders don't advertise in newspaper. Start looking into breeders registered with the Parson Russell Terrier Association of America (PRTAA), the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America (JRTCA), and your local dog clubs - they often maintain directories of breeders. If you see a dog you like, talk to the owner and find out who bred the dog. Attend a dog show or trial, and purchase a catalog that lists the names of the dogs and their breeders so that you can get in touch with them.
The JRT breeder should show you registration papers, health clearances, title certificates, pedigrees and other paperwork related to the litter. If she doesn't offer, ask to see documents supporting any claims she makes about the dogs. Do not buy from a breeder who can't show the paper work or who resents your request or says you can see the paperwork after you buy the puppy. Meet the puppy's parents or at least puppy's mom. She may be protective of her pups, but she should be reasonably friendly when away from the puppies. A well-cared-for dam will not look exhausted, malnourished, or ill. The breeder's facilities should be clean and in good repair. The dogs should look healthy and well cared for. All dogs should have area to move around and play and there should always be access to fresh water. The breeder should be able to tell you about each puppy's personality quirks. If a person doesn't care enough to get to know her litter, why would she care about finding the right dog for you? A responsible breeder should be asking you plenty of questions about your lifestyle, experience with dogs, and reasons for wanting this specific breed. A responsible breeder will not sell puppies to an owner who will not be able to properly care for the dog or if the dog is clearly not the right breed for the person.
Jack Russell Terriers are also available for adoption at many breed specific rescue centers. Most rescue dogs have no real problems, and they can become wonderful pets when given the training, exercise and care that they deserve. Dogs of different ages are available for adoption at dog rescue centers. You can also adopt a dog from animal shelters or pounds. When you find a dog that attracts you, ask about his known history, temperament, training and health status. If you are uneasy about the dog's behavior, look for another dog.
Jack Russell puppy supply list
Before you bring your new Jack Russell dog home, get all the supplies you need so that once the puppy arrives, you can concentrate on him rather than on shopping for all the necessities. Here's a list of supplies that your new dog will need:
Dog crate for a Jack Russell Terrier
A Russell needs a crate approximately 16 inches wide by 20 inches long (40.6 cm by 50.8 cm). You may want to provide bedding in the crate, but if your pup likes to tear things up, use a soft towel instead of a fancy bedding until the dog outgrows his urge to rip.
Dog collars for Jack Russell Terrier
An adjustable, quick release flat nylon collar is a good choice for a puppy. You should be able to insert two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck. Never use a slip (choke) collar on a puppy as it can severely damage his throat and spine. Be sure to attach an id tag to the dog's collar with your current information in case your pet accidentally gets lost.
Dog Leash for Jack Russell Terrier
A 4 (1.2 m) to 6 foot (1.8 m) leather leash a quarter (0.6 cm) to half-inch (1.3 cm) wide is strong and effective for control and training. Nylon leashes are hard on hands.
Dog toys for Jack Russell Terrier
Chewies and Nylabone products for your dog to have something to chew on. Terriers enjoy furry toys and squeaky toys. Dispose of damaged toys. Be sure to remove any small parts from the toys that the dog may accidentally swallow.
Dog food for Jack Russell Terrier
Check with your breeder or rescue center what dog food they used and continue with the same dog food at first. You can gradually switch to a different dog food if you decide to change Jack Russell Terrier's dog food to a different brand.
Dog food bowls for Jack Russell Terrier
Stainless steel are a good choice as they are easy to clean and will not chip or cause your dog an allergic reaction. Plastic bowls may cause allergic reactions in dogs.
Best dog food for Jack Russell Terriers
To keep your Jack Russell Terrier healthy, provide him with a high quality dog food. If your dog is healthy but picks at his food or leaves some, cut back on the amount you're giving him. If he still won't eat, consider trying a different dog food as some dogs simply don't care for a particular food. As a growing puppy, your dog will need more food than he'll need as an adult. Also, as the Jack Russell Terrier ages, he may need more or less food, depending on his health and activity levels. To check your Jack Russell Terrier for excess weight, run your index finger and thumb along the ridges of his spine from his shoulders to his tail. You should be able to feel his ribs without pressing down. When you look down at your dog's back, you should see a "waist" or narrowing behind his ribs. Avoid overfeeding your dog to avoid any health issues associated with dog obesity.
High quality dry dog food will help to keep your dog's teeth healthy as it doesn't tend to stick to his teeth as much as moist dog food. Also, while housetraining your dog, a high quality dry dog food results in smaller and more compact stools that are easier to clean up in case of an accident. The dog will also have better control of his bowels. Feed your pup on a regular schedule to get a good idea when he is ready for a bathroom break.
When you are training your dog, using healthy dog treats such as bits of raw carrots and green beans, morsels of string cheese, and itsy bits of roast chicken are much healthier than any sugary treats that aren't good for your dog's teeth or overall health. Use tiny pieces of treats for training, so that you dog doesn't need to stop and chew his food for a while before getting back to training.
Jack Russell Terrier health problems
Like most purebred dogs, Jack Russell Terriers have their own set of health issues. Jack Russell Terriers are susceptible to allergies, brain and nervous system disorders that include seisures, epilepsy and cerebellar ataxia, spinocerebellar ataxia. Other health issues associated with this breed include cander (lymphosarcoma, osteosarcoma, mammary tumors, testicular tumors). Ear disorders that include deafness. If your dog consistently ignores your commands or doesn't respond when you call him, check with your vet as the dog may be suffering from deafness. Eye and vision problems are also common and include cataracts, distichiasis, glaucoma, lens luxation and persistent pupillary membranes, progressive retinal atriphy. Heart disorders include heart disease, von willebrand's disease. Othropedic problems include legg-perthes disease and patellar luxation. Is getting a pet insurance for a Jack Russell Terrier a good idea? That depends on each individual situation. Factors such as dog's age and breed can affect monthly pet insurance cost.
Jack Russell Terrier origin
The Jack Russell Terrier breed originated in England in the nineteenth century, when Parson Jack Russell bred a small terrier designed to bolt small game. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 2012.
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