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Jack Russell Terrier
Average Weight:  12.5 - 13.2  lbs. (5.66 - 5.99 kg)
Average Height: 10 - 12  inches (25.4 -30.48 cm)
Pronounced:   Jak   Russ-el    TEH-ree-er
Group:  Terrier
Life Span: 15 Years
Average Litter: 5
Origin: England

Description

There is a smooth coat and a wire coat variety, with the smooth coat being the most well known and most popular.

The Jack Russell Terrier  is a strong, active, lithe, working terrier who is longer than he is tall.  The skull is flat, of moderate width and the muzzle is wide.  He has strong, deep jaws that are wide and powerful and his teeth close in a scissors bit.  The Jack Russell's small, dark eyes have a keen expression and his button or dropped ears are very mobile.

The tail may droop at rest but when moving is erect and if docked its tip is at the same level as the ears. The coat may be smooth, broken or rough.

Color Information

The predominant color is white with tan, brown and/or  black markings, most noticeably on the face but can land anywhere on the body.

Personality

 Often misspelled Jack Rusell Terrier or Jack Russel Terrier, this is a vocal dog, for his work requires him to bark at his prey so that he can be located underground if necessary. He is very intelligent and has loads of stamina.  This small breed dog has become very popular as a pet, but although he may love sitting on his owner's lap, he is not really a "lap dog".  This is a breed that needs training and plenty of opportunity to keep body body and mind active.

Most Jack Russell Terriers get along well with children, but they will not tolerate any abuse, even if it is unintentional; therefore this is not the best family dog to choose if you have very young children.  A home with children over 10 years old would be best.

Usually very outgoing, he is friendly toward other dogs but some display same-sex aggression. This breed is often aggressive toward cats and should not be in a home with hamsters, guinea pigs or other small animals.

Origin & History

The Jack Russell Terrier originated in England in the 1800's due to the effort and work of Reverend John Russell.  He needed a breed of Fox Terriers who would be able to run with his Foxhounds and to be able to go underground to bolt after fox and other animals who ran into their dens.  Due to his breeding intentions 2 breeds were developed: The Parson Russell Terrier and the Jack Russell Terrier. The names of these 2 were not given until after the Reverend passed away.

There has been controversy for a long time about whether or not the 2 breeds should be classified as one...or be distinct.    The AKC recognizes the "Russel Terrier" and the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America is the largest Jack Russell registry in the entire world.   

Health

Known for having good health and longevity, this small breed dog has an average life span of 14 years, however many have been recorded to be upwards of 21 years old.  There are some health issues to be aware of that this breed may be prone to including:
  • Hereditary cataracts
  • Primary lens luxation
  • Congenital deafness
  • Luxating patella - When the kneecap slips out of place
  • Cerebellar ataxia - Cerebellar ataxia covers a variety of different problems with coordination and balance. These include a staggering gait often with a prominent goose stepping of the front limbs, crossing over of the limbs, and balance problems.
  • Legg-Calve Perthes disease - A condition in which the hip joint is malformed
  • Myasthenia gravis - A neuromuscular disease which affects certain nerves and can cause muscle problems and weakness
  • Atopy - An allergy to an inhalant such as pollen or 2nd hand smoke
  • von Willebrand's disease - A blood clotting disorder
    Exercise

    The Jack Russell is a veritable powerhouse of energy, so this dog needs plenty of opportunity to exercise.  Apartment living will do fine, as long as he is taken for at least 1 good walk per day (preferably 2) and can be taken to a park or other safe place to run a few times per week.

    Grooming
      The coat is easy to manage, just a good brushing and combing each week will keep it healthy. A bath is needed occasionally, perhaps every 2 weeks.  Dental care should be done at home each day and nails checked every 6 weeks. 

      Shedding

      The smooth-coated Jack Russell sheds in the range of medium to high.  Brushing will help keep it under control.  The wiry-coated Jack Russell sheds into the coat more, thus brushing is needed to keep the hairs from matting.

      Care & Training

      This breed is packed with energy and owners must be prepared to train for commands and for behaving when left home alone.       Owners - Click Here for More Detailed Information
                   
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