Jack Russells can be fun and loyal
Although Jack Russell Terriers are known for being aggressive at times, they can be fun and loyal dogs in the right circumstances. Providing Jack Russell owners are prepared to invest a lot of time in obedience training in the early months and continuously assert their dominance, they can enjoy a good relationship with their dog. As dogs that can be quite physical in their attempts to be affectionate, Jack Russells are not recommended for households with young children.
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Jack Russell stats:
- Life span: 15 to 17 years
- Colour: Usually white, with tan, black, or brown markings
- Size: Small, 6 to 8kg
- Training: Strict obedience training is required
- Coat: Short rough coats that are easy to groom
- Shedding: Light shedders
- Exercise requirements: Medium
Choosing the right Jack Russell Terrier pup and exercising them
While some owners find that Jack Russell Terrier bitches are calmer than dogs, it’s worth bearing in mind that both have an incredibly vivacious nature. Expect to engage in a lot of obedience training from a young age either way.
As energetic and cheeky dogs, Jack Russells benefit from free time in the yard from a young age. From the age of around 9 to 12 months, begin taking them for walks in your local area. Jack Russells that are not exercised regularly can soon become aggressive with other dogs, but are friendlier when their owners help them expend energy.
What kind of households do Jack Russell Terriers suit?
Although Jack Russells are vibrant, friendly, and energetic, their cheeky and dominant nature means they may not mix well with very young children. Heavy handed children can soon aggravate Jack Russells, and the dog’s playful nature can soon disrupt sensitive little ones. As they have a desire to become pack leaders, Jack Russells are better off living with owners who have a lot of time to devote to obedience training during their early months. They can do well in apartments, but yards are preferable and establishing a daily outdoor exercise routine is essential.
Where to buy your Jack Russell Terrier
As always, purchasing your Jack Russell Terrier from a reputable breeder is recommended. Doing so gives you the best chance of avoiding hereditary health conditions, saving money later down the line. If you want to buy past the pup phase, consider whether you’re in need of a fully trained dog, or whether you have the time to train one coming from a rescue centre. (Breeders – please contact us to list your website here!)
Jack Russell Terrier health demographics and disease profiles
As relatively small dogs, Jack Russells have a height of 25 to 38cm, with males being larger than females. Some are prone to inherited eye diseases, which makes selecting a good breeder all the more essential. A few may experience joint diseases, including loose kneecaps and hip inflammation. Jack Russells are prone to mast cell tumours, which is a form of blood and connective tissue cancer.
Training requirements
Obedience training from an early age is highly recommended. As cheeky and dominant dogs, Jack Russell Terriers will attempt to exercise dominance over their owners given any opportunity. Jack Russell owners need to be incredibly strong willed, as anything other than perseverance and clear leadership can lead to trouble.
If you are prepared to put in the effort to ensure your Jack Russell doesn’t grow to run rings around you, invest in one. Ensure you have enough time to exercise them vigorously for 35 to 45 minutes each day and be persistent with obedience training from a young age.
