This game, hardy little Terrier takes its name from the Rev. John (Jack) Russell, a fox-hunting Parson. He was obsessed with the development of an ideal terrier which could flush the fox from its haunts during hunts. It is said the Reverend went about cross breeding several breeds in hope of creating this ideal worker. Along the way he also created the Parson Russell Terrier, which has longer legs making it much faster than the Jack Russell.

Temperament and Appearance

Jack Russell Terriers (JRTs) are incredibly brave for their size and also fun loving and extremely loyal. A good watch dog, the JRT makes a satisfactory pet for both older children and adults.

If you have ever heard the phrase ‘little dog syndrome’, well this is your character. Their undeniable sense of fearlessness and exuberance has landed many a Jack Russel in trouble. When necessary they are willing to take on any opponent including other canines of much larger stature.

JRT’s are bred in three coat varieties – smooth (no long/trace hairs on the head), rough (excess of long/trace hairs on head and body) and broken (some long/trace hairs on head and body). Breeders insist white must always be the predominant coat colour, with black, tan or brown markings.

Lifespan

14 years

Grooming and care

Caring for a Jack Russell comes with relative ease, as their coat requires minimal grooming.

Exercise and training

These busy little characters love to exercise and a minimum of 30 minutes activity a day is highly desirable. When bored, the JRT can become extremely destructive and the best of escape artists. Training requires perseverance as they become easily distracted. Left without, your Jack Russell may soon become an unwelcome member of the family. For this reason if you cannot commit the time to training and exercise we strongly suggest selecting another breed.

Health Concerns

For the latest research in breed-related problems in Jack Russell Terriers visit the University of Sydney’s LIDA (Listing of Inherited Disorders in Animals) website.

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