Jack Russell Terrier: Personality, Exercise, Grooming

(Russell Terrier, Jack Russell)

About Jack Russell Terrier

Country of Origin, History of the Breed The Jack Russell terrier was developed by a clergyman by the name of Jack Russell and in the 19th century. This terrier was used to hunt small game, particularly fox, as well as other small animals. The working ability of the dog is very much emphasized, and they are often seen on the English hunts. The first terrier, Trump, is very popular amongst breeders and is considered to be the foundation of the Jack Russell breed. Wherever the fox can go, so must the terrier. This has contributed to the size and breeding of the dog.

A General Appearance of the Dog

Jack Russell terrier is a small and athletic dog. They have a compact body, and slightly long legs. The chest is small and the body is very flexible. The tail is usually docked and is carried high. The skull is flat between the ears, and the nose is black. The eyes are generally Almond shaped and dark.

Coat

The Jack Russell terrier is generally at least 51% white, with either a reddish black, tan, or brown markings. These markings are generally only head and tail of the dog.

The coat on the Jack Russell may be rough or smooth. The hair may be long on the body with a slightly fuzzy face and smooth head.

Height

Male 10 to 12 inches
Female 10 to 12 inches

Weight

Male14 to 18 pounds
Female 14 to 18 pounds

Personality

Temperament of the Dog

The Jack Russell terrier is a very loving and devoted dog. They are very loyal to their owner and their family. They enjoy games and playing with toys. They are generally friendly with strangers and children who do not tease them.

Better suited to an indoor or outdoor lifestyle?

The Jack Russell will do well outside as they enjoy hunting. They may learn to climb chain-link fence and they can also jump. They enjoy chasing and exploring. They also enjoying barking and digging. The Jack Russell will do okay in an apartment with sufficient exercise, as they are very active indoors and require a lot of attention.

They do best in an average sized yard. Jack Russell's have been known to jump a 5 feet. A Jack Russell should not be left unattended in the home and are best to be crate trained.

Are they suited to homes with kids?

They are good with children, who do not tease them. They should not be left unsupervised with children, as dogs may become aggressive if they are taunted. They have been known to bite children who tease.

How to take care of the Jack Russell Terrier Puppies?

As a puppy the Jack Russell will require lots of exercise and obedience training. These puppies are very willful and the owner must be very willful as well to establish themselves as the head of the household.

Training

As puppies at, the Jack Russell must be crate trained so they can be left unattended in the home as well as housebroken. These dogs are very strong-willed and will make a good family companion as long as the owner is energetic and willing to put forth the proper amount of obedience training.

The Jack Russell has many talents including hunting, tracking, agility, and performing tricks. They are very intelligent and will learn tricks and commands easily. As they grow older, their training should be emphasized so that they remain willing and under control.

The Jack Russell terrier should not be left off a leash, unless they are very well trained.They love to chase and play and these behaviors often take over any previous training when they are not restrained.

Activity Level

How active is the Breed?

These dogs are very active, both indoors and outdoors. They love to run and play. They will do well indoors with sufficient exercise. Owners should be prepared to get exercise as well as they will be required to play many games either indoors or outdoors.

Exercise Need

The Jack Russell is very active during every stage of its life and will require sufficient exercise. Without sufficient exercise they may become destructive and bored.

Grooming

Comb and brush regularly with a stiff bristled brush. Bathe only when necessary. Owners must strip both the rough and broken coat if they are going to show the dog.

Health and Care

Genetic Problems

Some Jack Russell terriers are prone to dislocation of the knee caps, inherited eye diseases, deafness, and Legg Perthes. Legg Perthes is a hit joint disease common in small dogs.They may inherit eye diseases.

Litter Size: 4 to 8 puppies

Life Span: 15 or more years

National Breed Club

Jack Russell Terrier Club of America, Jack Russell Terrier Breeder's Association.

Recognition

AKC recognized as Parsons Russell Terrier, FCI, UKC, KCGB, NZKC, CET, ANKC, IKC, CKC, NKC, APRI, ACR