They are named after Reverend John Russell, a famous British huntsman who was renowned for his use of terriers for his passion of fox hunting.  Today’s JRT however can’t be traced back to his line. A Jack Russell weighs between 14 and 18 pounds and stands between 10 and 15 inches high (measured at the withers). Their coats can be smooth, broken or rough.

Genetically speaking the Jack Russell Terrier is a healthy breed.  There are some diseases that they are prone to however. One of them is Legg-Calve-Perthes. LCP is the degeneration of the head of the thigh bone and is usually not noticeable until the puppy is a least six months old.  If your terrier is showing signs of soreness in one leg, or if one leg looks different, than this disease could be the problem.

Another disease is Lens luxation.  This disease affects the lens of the eye.  They eye may look red or opaque and is painful.  This disease shows up later in life and if left untreated can cause blindness.

Remember, however, that even if a certain breed is prone to certain diseases, this does not mean they will get the disease.  If however, as with any dog or pet you suspect that something is not right then a trip to the vets is in order.

The Jack Russell can do well in an apartment but you must make sure they are sufficiently exercised.  They are not content to just lie on the couch all day. Remember that foremost this dog was bred for hunting so if you have smaller animals in the house such as a cat or a pet rat, the Jack Russell may see them as prey.

They will adapt to a small fenced yard literally exercising themselves but they do best if they have the room to run, hunt and play.  They will be in their element in a rural setting especially around horses and near barns.  A barn with a Jack Russell will generally be free of rodents such as mice and rats.  Remember, they are by nature a hunting dog.

Jack Russell Terriers are naturally assertive. They are a big dog in a little dog body.  They do make a good family pet with training.  They will not tolerate abusive behaviour from a child however unintentional.  Other pets like cats, they may see as prey and being a dominant type of dog may not get along with another dog. Training and socialization are very important at an early age.

Prospective owners of Jack Russell Terriers, if they take the time to socialize and train their new puppy may never run into any of these problems.  Remember as a hunting dog they do need to be kept busy. Agility classes are a good way to keep them busy as with other fun things that you can do with your dog.

So remember, like any other dog the key to a great relationship between you and your dog is training. With proper training and socialization you and your 4 – legged companion can enjoy many happy years together.

Until next time
Maureen Brownell