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Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terrier Dog Breed Information

Size 10-12 inches (25-30 cm)
Weight 14-18 lbs (6-8 kg)
Origin England
Color Brown, gold, red, black, red
Lifespan 12-15 years
Suitable as Family dog, companion dog
Personality Full of energy, happy, entertaining, intelligent, smart
Exercise
Drooling
Shedding
Grooming

Jack Russell Terrier Photo: godrick/Shutterstock

Breed Characteristics

A big personality in a small package! Jack Russell Terriers are small and look super cute. But don't be fooled. They have a lot of energy and they put it either into barking, digging, rocketing and hunting or in playing fetch and agility. It all depends on the master. Jack Russell Terriers do not always get along well with other dogs. That applies to other pets, too - it especially likes to chase cats. Aside from this, the dog is always friendly to other people. It is not a good choice for beginners, but with the appropriate education and attention it is a sporty, friendly family dog.

Jack Russell Terrier playing fetch Photo: Irina84/stock.adobe.com


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Discipline and Training

It takes a lot of self-confidence, time, patience, discipline and training to be the pack leader for a Jack Russell. Before buying, ask yourself: Do I often give in or will I be able to train my dog consistently? The latter should apply to you. When in doubt, it's always worth talking to a dog trainer to hear about his experiences and get some advice. Jack Russells are fearless and brave - even if they’re up against a much bigger dog. A Jack Russell’s master must exude the confidence of a pack leader. These dogs love to learn, and can show off impressive tricks - but training these stubborn pups isn’t easy.

Top Activities

Game of Chase, Frisbee Fetch, Agility

Jack Russell Terrier playing fetch Photo: kozorog/stock.adobe.com

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Good for sporty people
  • Good watch dog
  • Easy grooming

Cons

  • Not a beginner dog
  • Needs lots of exercise
  • Likes to dig
  • Tends to bark a lot
  • Sheds a lot
  • Strong prey drive

Exercise Needs

Let's have a look at the wonderful things about Jack Russells! The breed is perfect if you like to go for long hikes or go jogging frequently - in addition to going walkies. This dog loves every kind of exercise and becomes even more enduring and faster each time. It takes some time, but you can teach them impressive tricks, too!

Jack Russell Terrier playing fetch Photo: hurricanehank/stock.adobe.com


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Appearance

Jack Russell Terriers have either smooth or rough coats. Its basic color is white and has black and/or brown markings. These are usually found around the eyes, on the ears, on the tail root.

History and Origin

The Jack Russell Terrier is from England and was bred for fox hunting.

Where Does the Name Come From?

The dog has its name from a British reverend and dog breeder named John Jack Russell. He started breeding the dogs in 1819.

Health and Care

Its coat is pretty straightforward. Brushing once a week to remove dead or loose hair is enough.

Jack Russell Terrier Photo: godrick/Shutterstock

Fun Facts

Jumping Power

The Jack Russell Terrier can jump 5 feet in the air (1.5 meters). That's five times its own height.

Records

Speaking of tricks, here come the Guinness World Records! The Jack Russell Terrier Daifuku holds the record for the "Most jumps over a human leg at 30 seconds" (37 jumps). Jack Russell Jessica is entitled "Most skips by a dog and person in one minute - single rope" (59 skips). Balloons also seem to be a popular world record discipline: Jack Russell Twinkie bursted 100 inflated balloons in 39.08 seconds.

Comparable Breeds

Jack Russell Terrier Photo: godrick/Shutterstock


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