Jack Russell Terrier
Dog Breed Info: All Dog Breeds
Jack Russell Terrier
Parson Russell Terrier
- Full of energy and ambition
- Courageous hunter
- Daredevil and bold character
| Group | The Terrier Group |
| Breed Description | A Jack Russell Terrier is a working terrier and as such, the most important physical attribute is their chest size. If a terrier is too large to get to the ground, it is worthless as a working dog. Jack Russell’s also have straight, long legs to enable the dog to keep up with horses on the hunt. JRT are predominantly white in colour with black, tan or tricolour markings commonly found on their face and at the base of the tail. Jack Russell Terriers have small, V-shaped ears that drop downward. The body is balanced, square with a straight back and narrow chest. The tail is traditionally docked to around five inches, which is common among most working dogs. Jack Russell Terriers come in three coat types: smooth, broken and rough. In all cases, the coat should be dense and not soft or feathery. |
| Temperament | The Jack Russell Terrier is an intelligent, independent, fearless and lovable family pet. The Jack Russell Terrier (JRT) is a working terrier. Terrier work requires a dog to bark at pray so that it can be located underground and be dug out if necessary. Therefore, JRT’s are very vocal animals. Prospective buyers should keep in mind that while these dogs might enjoy sitting on your lap, they are NOT lap dogs. Jack Russell Terriers require training and regular and consistent exercise to maintain their temperament and occupy their minds. This breed is a good choice for people who are very active themselves and can deal with an energy-charged pet. |
| Height/Weight | Jack Russell Terrier is a small dog. Average height: 10 to 14 inches. Average weight: 13 to 17 pounds. |
| Health Issues | Health problems associate with the Jack Russell Terrier include: cataracts, lens luxation, congenital deafness, Patellar luxation, cerebellar ataxia, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease and von Willebrand’s disease. |
| Life Expectancy | 13 to 16 years |
| Exercise | The Jack Russell Terrier requires regular exercise and mental stimulation. |
| Living Conditions | Suitable for apartment living if they receive enough exercise including regular walks outdoors. Perfect for households with a small to medium size backyard. Keep in mind that these are high-engery pets and without regular exercise they may exhibit unmanageable behaviour such as, excessive barking, digging or escaping from the backyard. |
| Grooming | Jack Russell Terriers shed year-round and their broken coat requires regular brushing. |
| Breed Origin | The Jack Russell Terrier was developed in the 19th century by Reverend John Russell, who was a parson from west England and a founding member of the Kennel Club of Great Britain. |