Description

The Jack Russell Terrier or Parson Jack Russell Terrier is a small, agile, brave terrier, who is good at hunting small animals like foxes and raccoons. Like other terriers Jack Russell Terrier may bore easily and is capable of inventing his own entertainment. Jack Russell Terrier are tough little dogs who are clean and a convenient size for a companion.

Size of Male: Height: 12-15 inches Weight: 13-17 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 10-14 inches Weight: 13-17 pounds

Temperament

The Jack Russell Terrier is a perky, merry, devoted, and loving dog. Jack Russell Terrier are spirited and obedient, yet absolutely fearless. Careful and amusing, Jack Russell Terrier enjoys games and playing with toys. Friendly and generally kind to children who have been taught not to tease or strike the dog. They are intelligent, yet willful and determined. They can be slightly difficult to train and need a firm, experienced trainer. The Jack Russell can be aggressive with other dogs if not well trained and socialized. Some have killed or been killed in dog fights. Early socialization can help substantially moderate this trait. They have strong hunting instincts that are stronger than an average terrier and should not be trusted with other small animals. They like to chase and explore. Be careful not to let them off the lead unless they are very well-trained. Jack Russell like to bark and dig. They tend to get restless and destructive if not kept fruitfully occupied and well exercised. Jack Russell climb, which means they can climb over a fence, they also jump. A Jack Russell that stands 12 inches high can easily jump five feet. Jack Russell Terriers are not the breed for an inexperienced dog owner. The owner needs to be as strong-willed as they are, or this little guy will take over. With the right owner, this little dog can really excel, but is not recommended for those who have not had prior experience with terriers.

Living Conditions

The Jack Russell Terrier will do ok in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. Jack Russell Terriers are very active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. If the Jack Russell Terrier is kept in an apartment, the dog should have a person home with it during the day unless the dog is crate trained. Even then, the owner better expect to bring them for some exercise or be pestered to death for belly rubs and tug of war games when he/she gets home.

Upkeep

The Jack Russell Terrier needs a lot of mental and physical stimulation every day. Jack Russell Terrier is not a dog that can sit around inside. Jack Russell Terrier needs a long walk or strenuous game every day, plus a short training session. It enjoys the chance to explore on its own, but it must do so only in a safe area because it tends to go off in search of trouble, and some go down holes and must be dug out! It can live outdoors in temperate climates. It does best when allowed access to a house and yard, and it is not a good apartment dog. Coat care for the smooth type consists only of weekly brushing to remove dead hair; for the broken coated it also consists of occasional hand stripping.

Health

Major concerns: none

Minor concerns: lens luxation, patellar luxation

Life expectancy: 13 – 15 years