Jack Russell terriers were first developed in England during the 1800s by Rev. John Russell. Russell’s idea was to develop a hunting dog that fits to chase down small foxes, and other small animals that were usually seen at dens during their time.
These terriers were typically the choice of hunters with horses that were on the hunt for foxes.
In the 1930s, the Jack Russell terriers were brought to America as experiments for interbreeding of different breeds.
In conclusion, it produced a variety of form of Jack Russell terriers which caused the difference of appearances and working characteristics of the terriers.
Because of this, the American Kennel Club made a move to rename the Jack Russell terriers for show types to be known as the Parson Russell terriers, while the working types still retain their name.
Traits and Behavior
Cheerful, playful and active are one of the many traits Jack Russell terriers have. They are usually on the brim to be adventurous and at the same time curious about things.
They enjoy much the attention they could get from their owners which also surprisingly give back their full devotion to them.
These dogs are generally intelligent but are difficult to train because of their willful spirit. In this manner, training may need to implement a firm, calm approach however strict and harsh discipline is not recommended as it can regard them as a threat.
Repetitive training is not advised since these dogs are easily bored at it and may pose inappropriate behavioral problems like biting, chewing or destroying property.
It is also recommended that owners should introduce early socialization among other animals, so as not to impose them as targets like preys.
Socialization can also help develop the terriers to be well-mannered and rounded dogs.
Pet Care and Diseases
Jack Russell terriers have two separate types of coat hairs, one that is short and smooth and the other is rough and wiry. Both types need regular brushing to remove dead and loose hairs.
The same type of grooming needs is applied for both types especially on bathing and trimming nails. Bathing can only be done when necessary. For professional grooming needs especially for Russell terriers for show types, dental hygiene is a must to remove tartar and plaques on their teeth.
As active as these dogs can be, they usually need daily exercise like walking or running. Just ensure to let the dogs be free to roam in a safe and secure area.
History of the breed mentioned several interbreeding; it is not a wonder why these Jack Russell terriers can be prone to health problems like hip and knee dysplasia, inherited eye disease, deafness, Legg Perthes (a disease that affects the hip joints) and mast cell tumors.
Appearance
These terriers appear to be sturdy, muscular and small. They stand around 25-38 cm in height in withers and weigh about 6-8 kg.
The body length of these terriers is equally the same length as their height which poses a proportionate ratio to their structure.
The head is broad and well-balanced to its body, with a prominent stop that is slightly defined but not over pronounced.
Jack Russell’s eyes are usually almond in shape, dark in color and display full of life while the ears appear to be V-shaped and hang loosely on both sides above the eyes.
Their coat can be short, smooth or rough and wiry depending on the variety. Coat color is usually predominately white with tan, black or brown markings.
General Information
They can live up to more than 15 years with proper care. The average litter size is 4-8 puppies.
Breed Club
Visit this dog club website dedicated to Jack Russell Terriers. Click this link: https://www.therealjackrussell.com/index.php
Pet Portraits
We love Jack Russell Terriers at Print Paw. Here's a stunning pet canvas portrait of cute little Missy looking very happy.
