Jack Russell Terrier

A lively, alert and active Terrier with a keen, intelligent expression. Bold and fearless, friendly but quietly confident.

The Jack Russell Terrier originated in England in the 1800?s due to the efforts of the Reverend John Russell. He developed a strain of Fox Terriers to suit his needs for a dog to run with his foxhounds and go to ground to bolt the fox and other quarry from their dens. Two varieties evolved with basically similar Standards except for differences, mainly in height and proportions. The taller, more squarely built dog is now known as the Parson Russell Terrier and the shorter, slightly longer proportioned dog, is known as the Jack Russell Terrier.

The Jack Russell needs a lot of mental and physical stimulation every day. He is not a dog that can sit around inside. He needs a long walk or strenuous game every day, plus a short training session. He enjoys the chance to explore on his own, but he must do so only in a safe area because he tends to go off in search of trouble, and some go down holes and must be dug out! He does best when allowed access to a house and yard. Coat care for the smooth type consists only of weekly brushing to remove dead hair; for the broken coat he also consists of occasional hand stripping.

The Jack Russell Terrier thrives on exercise. They are very active indoors and require constant stimulation. They have the ability to adapt to apartment dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, but do best with an average size yard that is securely fenced. They will become destructive if they become bored. They enjoy long walks and vigorous play sessions.

Attention, exercise, job or activity to do, socialization and training.

The Jack Russell Terrier requires minimal grooming. They need regular brushing with a firm bristle brush. Bathing should only be done when necessary. It is important to keep their nails trimmed regularly to prevent problems. They are easily over-fed and have a tendency to become overweight. The health issues that affect this breed include deafness, glaucoma, epilepsy, allergies, and skin problems.