Jack Russell Terrier

Ah, the Jack Russell Terrier Breed. A feisty, fun and fiercely clever breed of dog that will bring a smile to your face every single day.

These small bundles of rocket fuel will both work and play hard for their supper and can often be a funny, loving and loyal family pet if managed appropriately.

Breed Temperament:

A hunting dog bred to run after quarry, Jack Russells instinctively chase after anything that purrs, squeaks or chirps so think carefully before bringing a Jack Russell home if you have other pets.

Jack Russells jump and run like the most energetic toddler and you do need to keep a watchful eye on their antics – they can easily jump over and dig under fences!

Sassy and mischevious, they are eminently trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement. A fantastically loving companion that often likes to cuddle up next to their family, acting like a canine hot water bottle when snuggling down for hugs.

Suitable environment:

• A great family dog, as long as they are trained properly
• Apartment living is a no-no due to high energy levels
• A big garden for playtime is a bonus, access to long walks is essential
• Ideally an only pet as Jack Russells have a strong furry friend chase instinct and can be aggressive with other dogs. NEVER leave two Jack Russells alone together; battle can commence easily over a stolen toy.

Ideal Owners:

A jack Russell isn’t a dog for sitting around watching TV whilst his or her family is out at work. They love attention and need lots of exercise so would suit people who are home a lot of the time.

Great playmates for children, but as with any dog, never leave the two alone together. The breed can be both yappy and nippy by nature so need to be supervised around smaller human friends.

Because of their strong willed personality, you will need to be an experienced dog owner before taking this breed on, with the knowledge that your dog will need lots of mental and physical exercise and attention.

Breed appearance:

Jack Russells are small. Itty bitty, even, which is part of their charm.

With sturdy and powerful long or short legs, a pointed head designed to wedge into all sorts of tight spots and a choice of either short hair or wire hair they are sleek little powerhouses. Predominantly white, they can come with either black or tan markings or tricolour.

Breed History:

Jack Russells originated in England from the Reverend Jack Russell, who wanted to breed a dog swift enough to keep up with horses on the hunt, small enough to skip down holes and chase out foxes, but responsive enough to leave whatever it found in the hole, in the hole when needed.

Since then, they have become popular both as a family pet and as working dogs on farms as well as maintaining a presence in horseback sporting activities.