Anyone who thinks that all small dogs are okay for apartments has never met a Jack Russell Terrier. These little guys can MOVE and are quite energetic compared to similarly sized dogs. Incredibly fast and possessing remarkable stamina, they have high prey drives and love chasing things, whether that’s a frisbee or a stray cat! Needless to say, if you have an active lifestyle, you could meet your match with one of these pint-sized, loyal dogs.
Here are five facts to know about the Jack Russell Terrier.
1. Jack Russell Terriers Originated in England
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small but fearless dog breed that has been prized for centuries for its hunting ability. Though the exact origins of the breed are unknown, it is believed that the Jack Russell was developed in England in the 1800s from a cross between the Fox Terrier and other terrier breeds.
The Jack Russell quickly gained popularity among hunters for its fearlessness and determination, and it was not long before the breed was being exported all over the world. Today, the Jack Russell remains a popular choice not only for hunters, but it has also become a cherished family pet.
2. They Are Small With Short Wiry Coats
Jack Russells are small dogs that stand about 12 to 14 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 13 and 17 pounds. They have a wiry, short, single coat that can range from white and cream with tan and black markings in bi-colored or tri-colored patterns. The coat is primarily white, supposedly bred this way for the hunters to see their dogs at dusk and dawn.
They have small, muscular bodies and lively, alert eyes with floppy ears. Their gait is effortless and efficient, and they trot in a bit of a strut as if they knew they are the bee’s knees!
3. Jack Russell Terriers Often Chase Small Animals
Jack Russell Terriers are friendly, loving dogs with their families, but they can be suspicious and hostile to strangers. Early and extensive socialization is needed for a Jack Russell to be a calm, balanced dog. They love to work and will do well in agility courses and obedience classes if you can keep their attention!
They are easily distracted, so you’ll have to keep training sessions short and entertaining. One thing that is difficult to manage with Jack Russells is their prey drive. They have been bred for centuries to be hunting dogs to flush out prey that’s bigger than them, so if you have smaller pets around, exercise extreme caution! A Jack Russell will tirelessly chase a cat and contribute to a chaotic household.
4. These Terriers Need Plenty of Exercise
This is another thing that sets Jack Russells apart from the rest: these diminutive canine athletes have boundless energy and will run circles around dogs three times their size. You’ll need to exercise your Jack Russell extensively, or you’ll have to deal with loads of ripped-apart clothes, constant barking, digging, and other common problem behaviors.
At least they are small, so an hour’s run or a vigorous game of fetch might do the trick to tire a Jack Russell out. Throw in loads of playtime in between their daily exercise and you might just have a pooch that is happy to lounge around on the couch in the evenings.
5. Good News: These Dogs Are Generally Healthy
These little dogs have a generous lifespan of 12 to 14 years. They are relatively healthy, but like any dog, are prone to genetic conditions such as dental disease, patella luxation, and hip dysplasia.
As dogs age, their teeth can become yellowed and discolored. Plaque can build up on the teeth, and eventually, tartar will form. This can lead to gum inflammation, tooth loss, and pain. Dental disease can also cause bad breath and difficulty eating. The good news is that there are steps you can take to prevent dental disease in your Jack Russell Terrier by feeding them a high-quality diet and providing them with plenty of chew toys.
You should also brush their teeth regularly using toothpaste designed for dogs. Finally, take them to the vet for an annual checkup, which will include a professional cleaning.
Thanks to its intelligent and affectionate nature, the Jack Russell is well-suited to active homes that have the time to give it the mental and physical stimulation it needs. These dogs are working dogs that will not suit sedentary households or inexperienced owners.
However, if you can spare the time to exercise and tire out this bouncing canine with its boundless energy and love of adventure, this versatile little dog is sure to keep you entertained for years to come.
