Jack Russell Terrier.
Compiled and researched by Izelle de Klerk (BSc) - Dodgy Dogs & Crazy Cats
Canine & Feline Behaviourist
Canine & Feline Behaviourist
about adopting first and foremost. If the rescue centre above is not in your area, just do a search for one closer to you. https://jackrussell.rescueme.org/za
The Jack Russell Terrier originated in Devonshire in the south of England in the late 1800's. They were used for fox hunting and are named after the Reverend Jack (or John) Russell, he had a passion for fox hunting as well as the breeding of fox hunting dogs. While studying for a ministry at Oxford University he saw a little Terrier type dog riding on a horse-drawn milk cart and impulsively bought her. The dog's name was Trump and by mating Trump with small Fox Terrier-type dogs, she became the mother of the Jack Russell Breed. At this time, the dogs were called “fox terriers”, he term “Jack Russell Terrier” was coined after Rev. Russell’s death in order to distinguish the small working dogs from the existing “fox terriers,” which were larger.
Breeders emphasized their working ability, so Jack Russell Terriers constitute a wide range of different types. Not happy with this wide variety of working type Jacks, as of April 1, 2003 the Jack Russell Terrier Association of America was changed to the Parson Russell Terrier Association of America. The working types remained Jack Russells while the American show types became known as the Parson Russell Terrier.
These little dogs have compact bodies, dark eyes and a dense double coat that is either smooth, rough or a combination of both which is known as a broken coat. A broken-coated dog may have longer hair on the tail or face than that which is seen on a smooth-coated dog. The coat colours should be predominate white with tan, black or brown markings.
Personality
The energetic and spirited Jack packs a lot of personality into a small body. A good word to use is feisty - they are intelligent, affectionate, obedient and cheerful, but can be alarmingly assertive and independent. They are loving, devoted, and endlessly amusing, enjoying life and all it has to offer.
Is this the correct pup for you, which is the best home and why?
Despite their small size, these dogs are not recommended for apartment living unless the owner is willing to providing the dog with the necessary amount of exercise and stimulation. They have a lot of energy and will do best with at least an average-sized yard - make sure that they can’t climb, dig under or jump the fence. They are very good at escaping and can easily clear a 5 foot wall to chase a running cat. They are often thought of as a good dog to have in a town house complex – which is definitely not suited to them.
They love and need a lot of attention and are very devoted to their families. They need to be part of the family and included in activities and outings, they do not do well when left alone for extended periods of time. Because they can be protective of their families and environments they make great guard dogs, they are also good watchdogs - they will announce a stranger approaching the house with relentless barking.
These little dogs are intelligent and will amuse you for hours on end but they can also be very strong willed. If you give them an inch, they can become determined to take a mile. They are not for inexperienced/first-time dog owner, they need an owner who is strong-willed that can set rules to follow, and limitations as to what they are and are not allowed to do. If they do not get these rules and limitations they are prone to developing Small Dog Syndrome, this is where the dog believes that they are boss and is due to the fact that the owner is too lenient with them and lets them get away with more that they should. This can lead to behavioural problems such as guarding, snapping, separation anxiety, and obsessive barking.
Like with any dog Jack Russells need early socialization when they're young, this allows them to grow into well-rounded adults and prevents aggression toward other dogs.
This breed needs a lot of exercise and stimulation, a half an hour to hour walk twice a day will get rid of a lot of their energy but they also need plenty of off-leash play. They love to run and make excellent jogging companions, they also enjoy games and playing with toys and will play fetch with you as long as you are willing to throw. Because of their strong prey drive they will take off after smaller animals. For this reason it is important not to let them of leash in areas that it is not save to do so.
If they don’t receive enough exercise and activity to occupy their keen minds they can become restless and destructive. They bore easily and will often create their own fun when left alone to entertain themselves.
Their high energy and drive make these dogs ideally suited to a number of different activities such as flyball, agility, hunting, surfing, bird retrieval, skate boarding, search & rescue, tracking and performing tricks. Some Jack Russell Clubs today arrange tunneling competitions where the dogs must burrow their way through the tunnel. Dog races are also popular, with the dogs chasing a mechanical lure.
Because of their breeding they love to chase anything and explore. They are very vocal dogs and, like many terriers, enjoy digging and can make quite a large hole in a short time.
In a nutshell, the Jack Russell Terrier is for you if you:
Where do I get my pup from?
Only from reputable breeders! One can contact the Kennel Union Of South Africa (KUSA). They have a list of breeders who have puppies available or else a KUSA affiliated breed club.
Always try and meet both parents of the puppies. This is not always possible as the sire (father) may be an imported dog. Definitely ask to see the mother.
Please read our articles on how to choose a reputable breeder on the Puppies page.
Breeders emphasized their working ability, so Jack Russell Terriers constitute a wide range of different types. Not happy with this wide variety of working type Jacks, as of April 1, 2003 the Jack Russell Terrier Association of America was changed to the Parson Russell Terrier Association of America. The working types remained Jack Russells while the American show types became known as the Parson Russell Terrier.
These little dogs have compact bodies, dark eyes and a dense double coat that is either smooth, rough or a combination of both which is known as a broken coat. A broken-coated dog may have longer hair on the tail or face than that which is seen on a smooth-coated dog. The coat colours should be predominate white with tan, black or brown markings.
Personality
The energetic and spirited Jack packs a lot of personality into a small body. A good word to use is feisty - they are intelligent, affectionate, obedient and cheerful, but can be alarmingly assertive and independent. They are loving, devoted, and endlessly amusing, enjoying life and all it has to offer.
Is this the correct pup for you, which is the best home and why?
Despite their small size, these dogs are not recommended for apartment living unless the owner is willing to providing the dog with the necessary amount of exercise and stimulation. They have a lot of energy and will do best with at least an average-sized yard - make sure that they can’t climb, dig under or jump the fence. They are very good at escaping and can easily clear a 5 foot wall to chase a running cat. They are often thought of as a good dog to have in a town house complex – which is definitely not suited to them.
They love and need a lot of attention and are very devoted to their families. They need to be part of the family and included in activities and outings, they do not do well when left alone for extended periods of time. Because they can be protective of their families and environments they make great guard dogs, they are also good watchdogs - they will announce a stranger approaching the house with relentless barking.
These little dogs are intelligent and will amuse you for hours on end but they can also be very strong willed. If you give them an inch, they can become determined to take a mile. They are not for inexperienced/first-time dog owner, they need an owner who is strong-willed that can set rules to follow, and limitations as to what they are and are not allowed to do. If they do not get these rules and limitations they are prone to developing Small Dog Syndrome, this is where the dog believes that they are boss and is due to the fact that the owner is too lenient with them and lets them get away with more that they should. This can lead to behavioural problems such as guarding, snapping, separation anxiety, and obsessive barking.
Like with any dog Jack Russells need early socialization when they're young, this allows them to grow into well-rounded adults and prevents aggression toward other dogs.
This breed needs a lot of exercise and stimulation, a half an hour to hour walk twice a day will get rid of a lot of their energy but they also need plenty of off-leash play. They love to run and make excellent jogging companions, they also enjoy games and playing with toys and will play fetch with you as long as you are willing to throw. Because of their strong prey drive they will take off after smaller animals. For this reason it is important not to let them of leash in areas that it is not save to do so.
If they don’t receive enough exercise and activity to occupy their keen minds they can become restless and destructive. They bore easily and will often create their own fun when left alone to entertain themselves.
Their high energy and drive make these dogs ideally suited to a number of different activities such as flyball, agility, hunting, surfing, bird retrieval, skate boarding, search & rescue, tracking and performing tricks. Some Jack Russell Clubs today arrange tunneling competitions where the dogs must burrow their way through the tunnel. Dog races are also popular, with the dogs chasing a mechanical lure.
Because of their breeding they love to chase anything and explore. They are very vocal dogs and, like many terriers, enjoy digging and can make quite a large hole in a short time.
In a nutshell, the Jack Russell Terrier is for you if you:
- Want an active dog that can learn anything and participate in any sport activity
- Don’t mind a dog that loves to chew, dig, and bark.
- Want a dog that will go anywhere and do anything with you
- Are willing to spend time and money training and socializing them
- Are active and can give them the attention, exercise and mental stimulation they need. Exercise is a necessity.
- Want a dog that is easy to groom
- Have dog experience and can be firm with the rules
- Have a house with a yard that is escape proof.
- Don’t mind having holes dug in your garden on a regular basis
- Have older children
- Are experienced with dogs. A JR is not always the best dog for first time owners.
Where do I get my pup from?
Only from reputable breeders! One can contact the Kennel Union Of South Africa (KUSA). They have a list of breeders who have puppies available or else a KUSA affiliated breed club.
Always try and meet both parents of the puppies. This is not always possible as the sire (father) may be an imported dog. Definitely ask to see the mother.
Please read our articles on how to choose a reputable breeder on the Puppies page.
Which other breeds are most compatible with the Jack Russell Terrier?
These dogs will get along with most other dogs as long as they have been socialized properly from a young age but do avoid any other Terrier breeds.
The best option is a dog that is not very dominating or challenging; not breeds such as Pitbull or Staffie; as a JR will not back down from a challenge.
Good breeds to go for will be one that is hardy and playful with a high-energy temperament; like another Jack, Boxer, Labrador, etc.
Is it wise to have two or more of the same breed?
Most definitely, this is the most ideal situation as they understand each other. Preferably have a male and female. Always have only one male unless you have a lot of experience handling dogs.
Additionally, as the pup reaches the adolescent stage, its own position in the canine pack will assume much importance. This can lead to fighting between dogs and especially in the case of two females. The fights can be very serious and may not be able to be solved.
Should I get two pups together?
This is not a good idea. Most people think that the pups will be happier with a playmate and won’t fight if they are family. The truth of the matter is that your two pups are likely to:
Please read ‘Placing Littermates in the same home’ and ‘Double Trouble – (why you shouldn’t get two puppies)’ on our website for more information.
Is it wise to keep same-sex dogs?
To keep two or more same-sex dogs of a rather dominant breed together, is often a recipe for conflict. They can get along fine, until they are ‘triggered’ by a ball or a bone lying on the lawn, when both might want to take possession of it, or by someone delivering mail and when they rush for the gate and can’t get to the ‘intruder’, they go for one another.
Additionally, as the pup reaches the adolescent stage, its own position in the canine pack will assume much importance. This can lead to fighting between dogs and especially in the case of two females. The fights can be very serious and may not be able to be solved.
Do they get on well with other animals?
Aggression toward other dogs can be a serious problem with these dogs; however it they are properly socialized from a young age they can get along very well with other dogs and even cats (as long as they don’t run from the dog).
But because of their strong prey drive and will take off after smaller pets such as rabbits, birds, rats etc. They must never be left unattended with these pets and early socialization is a necessity.
Are they good with children?
Jacks are friendly and generally kind to children; however they are not recommended for younger children at they can be a bit rough with them and they will not tolerate abuse even if it is unintentional - they will snap. They do well in homes with older children who understand how to interact with dogs.
These dogs will get along with most other dogs as long as they have been socialized properly from a young age but do avoid any other Terrier breeds.
The best option is a dog that is not very dominating or challenging; not breeds such as Pitbull or Staffie; as a JR will not back down from a challenge.
Good breeds to go for will be one that is hardy and playful with a high-energy temperament; like another Jack, Boxer, Labrador, etc.
Is it wise to have two or more of the same breed?
Most definitely, this is the most ideal situation as they understand each other. Preferably have a male and female. Always have only one male unless you have a lot of experience handling dogs.
Additionally, as the pup reaches the adolescent stage, its own position in the canine pack will assume much importance. This can lead to fighting between dogs and especially in the case of two females. The fights can be very serious and may not be able to be solved.
Should I get two pups together?
This is not a good idea. Most people think that the pups will be happier with a playmate and won’t fight if they are family. The truth of the matter is that your two pups are likely to:
- Bond with each other to the exclusion of you
- Will stress without the other dog being around
- Fight with each other
- Be more destructive and boisterous
- Two pups together often leads to one being more assertive and the other more submissive. This could well end up in a situation where the more submissive dog will never develop its full potential.
- Mature later
Please read ‘Placing Littermates in the same home’ and ‘Double Trouble – (why you shouldn’t get two puppies)’ on our website for more information.
Is it wise to keep same-sex dogs?
To keep two or more same-sex dogs of a rather dominant breed together, is often a recipe for conflict. They can get along fine, until they are ‘triggered’ by a ball or a bone lying on the lawn, when both might want to take possession of it, or by someone delivering mail and when they rush for the gate and can’t get to the ‘intruder’, they go for one another.
Additionally, as the pup reaches the adolescent stage, its own position in the canine pack will assume much importance. This can lead to fighting between dogs and especially in the case of two females. The fights can be very serious and may not be able to be solved.
Do they get on well with other animals?
Aggression toward other dogs can be a serious problem with these dogs; however it they are properly socialized from a young age they can get along very well with other dogs and even cats (as long as they don’t run from the dog).
But because of their strong prey drive and will take off after smaller pets such as rabbits, birds, rats etc. They must never be left unattended with these pets and early socialization is a necessity.
Are they good with children?
Jacks are friendly and generally kind to children; however they are not recommended for younger children at they can be a bit rough with them and they will not tolerate abuse even if it is unintentional - they will snap. They do well in homes with older children who understand how to interact with dogs.
Training requirements and grooming
Training
The Jack Russell is very intelligent and highly trainable, but they have a mind of their own and can be quite strong willed - they are thus not the easiest to train. They need an experienced trainer who is patient, firm and consistent with their training.
Training sessions should be short and sweet to hold his interest, repetition bores him. And although they respond to positive motivation in the form of praise, play, and food rewards, they'll become stubborn in the face of harsh corrections.
Grooming
These dogs have coarse double coats that comes in three types: smooth (short), rough (long) and broken (short and long)
All three coat types need only weekly brushing; but because they sheds you can brushing them more often to remove dead and loose hair. They only need to bathe when necessary.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. You also need to clean their teeth about once a week. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Health concerns
This is a solid breed with relatively few health issues
Common health issues include cataracts, ectopia lentis, joint problems, dislocation of the kneecaps, congenital deafness, patellar luxation, ataxia, myasthenia gravis and von Willebrand disease. They are also prone to allergies and skin problems.
“In today’s age, with the rising cost of veterinary care, it really is a wise decision to consider medical insurance for your pets. Depending on the plan you choose, you can ensure that if your pet does develop one of the health issues the breed is prone too, that you will be covered –additionally, just knowing that any accident your pet may have will be covered, will out-weigh the monthly insurance fee for most pet owners. Our own personal choice is Genricpet as they have a ‘no limit’ policy and their rates are comparable to the rest of the industry. To find out the questions and things to look for in a Medical Insurance, please just follow this link”
Life expectancy
About 13 - 16 years, sometimes more.
Interesting Facts
Training
The Jack Russell is very intelligent and highly trainable, but they have a mind of their own and can be quite strong willed - they are thus not the easiest to train. They need an experienced trainer who is patient, firm and consistent with their training.
Training sessions should be short and sweet to hold his interest, repetition bores him. And although they respond to positive motivation in the form of praise, play, and food rewards, they'll become stubborn in the face of harsh corrections.
Grooming
These dogs have coarse double coats that comes in three types: smooth (short), rough (long) and broken (short and long)
All three coat types need only weekly brushing; but because they sheds you can brushing them more often to remove dead and loose hair. They only need to bathe when necessary.
As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the ears, nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Ears should smell good, without too much wax or gunk inside, and eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. You also need to clean their teeth about once a week. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early.
Health concerns
This is a solid breed with relatively few health issues
Common health issues include cataracts, ectopia lentis, joint problems, dislocation of the kneecaps, congenital deafness, patellar luxation, ataxia, myasthenia gravis and von Willebrand disease. They are also prone to allergies and skin problems.
“In today’s age, with the rising cost of veterinary care, it really is a wise decision to consider medical insurance for your pets. Depending on the plan you choose, you can ensure that if your pet does develop one of the health issues the breed is prone too, that you will be covered –additionally, just knowing that any accident your pet may have will be covered, will out-weigh the monthly insurance fee for most pet owners. Our own personal choice is Genricpet as they have a ‘no limit’ policy and their rates are comparable to the rest of the industry. To find out the questions and things to look for in a Medical Insurance, please just follow this link”
Life expectancy
About 13 - 16 years, sometimes more.
Interesting Facts
- A terrier is a dog who likes to dig, from the Latin word "terra" meaning "earth."
- Whilst he was a founding member of the kennel club in the UK, Russell himself refused to register his working terriers alongside other "show" breeds, being of the wise opinion that breeding for the show ring would quickly wreck the most important aspect of the dog, its working ability.
- Nipper was a dog born in 1884 who was thought to be a dog of the Jack Russell terrier type. He was the inspiration for the painting Dog looking at and listening to a Phonograph, later renamed to His Master's Voice. The painting was used by a variety of music related companies including The Gramophone Company and EMI. Today it remains in use incorporated into the logo for HMV in UK and Europe.
- A Jack Russell named Bothy made history in 1982 as part of the Transglobe Expedition. Owned by explorers Ranulph and Ginny Fiennes, he became the first dog to travel to both the north and south poles. This feat is unlikely to be repeated, as all dogs have been banned from Antarctica by the Antarctic Treaty nations since 1994, due to fears that they could transmit diseases to the native seal population. Ranulph Fiennes and Charles Burton actually made the trip to the north pole by powered sledges before signalling to the base camp that they had arrived. To celebrate their achievement, a plane was sent out to take the two men champagne, along with Bothy.
- On 29 April 2007, a Jack Russell named George saved five children at a carnival in New Zealand from an attack by two pit bulls. He was reported to have charged at them and held them at bay long enough for the children to get away. Killed by the pit bulls, he was posthumously awarded the PDSA Gold Medal in 2009, the animal equivalent of the George Cross. A statue has been erected in Manaia, New Zealand in his memory. A former US Marine also donated to George's owner a Purple Heart award he had received for service in Vietnam.
- In the UK, one of the more recognisable canine stars was restaurateur and chef Rick Stein's irrepressible terrier Chalky, who frequently upstaged his owner on his various cookery series. He was unique in having his own line of merchandise, including plushes, tea towels, art prints, art paw prints and two real ales – Chalky's Bite and Chalky's Bark, which won gold in the Quality Drink Awards 2009. Chalky was given a BBC obituary when he died in 2007.
- Father Moose and son Enzo played the role of Eddie on the long-running TV sitcom Frasier. Eddie belonged to lead character Frasier's father Martin Crane, and constantly "stole the show" with his deadpan antics, receiving more fan mail than any other Frasier character. Moose and Enzo also starred as Skip in the 2000 film My Dog Skip.
- Wishbone, from the television show of the same name which aired from 1995 to 2001 in the United States, was a Jack Russell terrier. Wishbone's real name was Willowall Soccer, and was chosen from over a hundred other dogs vying for the part.
- Actor Gene Hackman's pet in the 1995 movie Crimson Tide was a smooth-coated Jack Russell terrier named "Bear".
- Max, a Jack Russell terrier, played the role of Milo who is one of Stanley Ipkiss's only friends in the 1994 U.S film The Mask starring Jim Carrey. Max also played the female dog Audrey in the 2000 film Mr. Accident.
- In the 2009 movie Hotel for Dogs, Friday, one of the main characters is a Jack Russell, played by the dog actor Cosmo. Cosmo went on to appear in the films Paul Blart: Mall Cop and Beginners.
- Jack Russell: Dog Detective is a series of children's books by authors Darrell and Sally Odgers, and published by Scholastic. It is about the adventures of a Jack Russell terrier named Jack Russell and his gang of friends including Jill Russell, Lord "Red" Setter and Foxie Terrier.
- Uggie is an animal actor, appearing in commercials starting in 2005 and most notably cast in Water for Elephants and The Artist, both in 2011. In the same year, based on interest following The Artist, the "Consider Uggie" campaign was launched, which attempted to gain the dog a nomination for an Academy Award. In 2012 Uggie was named Nintendo's first-ever spokesdog.
Do`s and Don`ts of this breed
Do’s
Don’ts
Reference
http://www.petsplace.co.za/Jack%20Russell.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Russell_Terrier
Do’s
- Give them lots of attention
- Start training and socialization while they are puppies
- Give them lots of exercise and stimulation
- Give them an area that they are allowed to dig in
- Give them daily vigorous exercise
- Have a large yard and provide plenty of toys and entertainment
Don’ts
- Leave them outside alone, they thrives on human companionship
- Let them off lead unless you are in a save area to do so
- Let them run the house, they can become difficult to handle and need a firm hand
- Leave them unsupervised with young children or small pets
Reference
http://www.petsplace.co.za/Jack%20Russell.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Russell_Terrier