Jack Russell Terrier

also known as JRT, Russell Terrier, Jack

Pros History


The Jack Russell Terrier is a small breed of terrier that was developed in the early 19th century in Devon, England by a man named Parson John Russell. The breed was created for the purpose of hunting small game, particularly foxes, and was named after its creator.

The breed was initially called the "Working Terrier," but it was later renamed the Jack Russell Terrier in honor of Parson Russell. The breed has a long history of being used as a working dog, and it is known for its energetic and tenacious nature.

The Jack Russell Terrier was first recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1997, and it is now a popular companion dog in many countries around the world.

Breed Information


Type

Is Jack Russell Terrier a purebred?

Purebred

Purpose

What were Jack Russell Terriers originally used for?

Ratter

Lifespan

How Long Do Jack Russell Terriers Live? What is average life expectancy for a Jack Russell Terrier? How long can Jack Russell Terriers live?

13-16 years

The average Jack Russell Terrier lifespan is somewhere between 13-16 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

Jack Russell Terrier Height & Weight


How big is a full grown Jack Russell Terrier?

What is the average height of a Jack Russell Terrier? How big is a Purebred Jack Russell Terrier height? Jack Russell Terrier dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 9-15 inches (22.9 - 38.1 cm) 5.5 inches (14 cm) 10.5 inches (26.7 cm) 15.0 inches (38.1 cm)
Female 9-15 inches (22.9 - 38.1 cm) 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) 9.5 inches (24.1 cm) 14.5 inches (36.8 cm)
What is the average weight of a Jack Russell Terrier? How much should Jack Russell Terriers weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 14-18 pounds (6 - 8 kg) 6.5 pounds (3 kg) 12.5 pounds (6 kg) 22.5 pounds (10 kg)
Female 14-18 pounds (6 - 8 kg) 6.5 pounds (3 kg) 11.0 pounds (5 kg) 20.5 pounds (9 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do Jack Russell Terriers get fat easily?

The Jack Russell Terrier is a breed that has an average to high tendency to gain weight if their weight is not closely monitored. It is important to maintain a balance between exercise and food intake to keep them at a healthy weight. This can be achieved by scheduling at least one daily walk and engaging in regular playtime with them.

Hypoallergenic

Are Jack Russell Terriers Hypoallergenic?

No

Unfortunately, the Jack Russell Terrier is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What is a Jack Russell Terrier personality? What are Jack Russell Terrier dogs best known for?

Alert
Courageous
Independent
Cheerful
Energetic
Stubborn

Shedding Level

Are Jack Russell Terriers heavy shedders? How Much Does a Jack Russell Terrier Shed?

Jack Russell Terrier dogs are extremely heavy shedders, they will lose a large amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Jack Russell Terrier.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of a Jack Russell Terrier dog?

Jack Russell Terriers are very good watchdogs. They are a vocal breed, and are wary of outsiders, so if someone approaches your home or aims to intrude, the Jack Russell Terrier is going to make sure everyone knows about it.

Breed History


Origin

Where do Jack Russell Terriers come from?

England

Ancestry

What are Jack Russell Terriers descended from?

Terrier

Breed recognition

What organizations or kennel clubs recognize/register the Jack Russell Terrier breed?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Irish Kennel Club
Club Espanol De Terriers
Jack Russell Terrier Club Of America

Date of Birth

When were Jack Russell Terriers first bred? How old is the Jack Russell Terrier breed?

Unknown

Breed Group

What Breed Group is a Jack Russell Terrier?

Terrier (AKC:2012)(UKC)

Jack Russell Terrier Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are Jack Russell Terrier eyes?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can Jack Russell Terrier nose be naturally?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can Jack Russell Terrier coat be naturally?

Black
White

Coat Length

How long is a Jack Russell Terriers coat?

The coat of a Jack Russell Terrier dog is generally known for its length.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The Jack Russell Terrier Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of a Jack Russell Terrier?

Straight

Litter Size

How many puppies can a Jack Russell Terrier have in a litter? How many puppies can a Jack Russell Terrier have in her first litter?

13-16 puppies per pregnancy

A Jack Russell Terrier can have a litter of 13-16 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Jack Russell Terriers are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Jack Russell Terrier Health Issues


Health Issues

Do Jack Russell Terriers have a lot of health problems?

The Jack Russell Terrier is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Jack Russell Terrier?

Patellar Luxation
Cataracts
Glaucoma
Legg-Calve Perthes Disease
Subaortic Stenosis
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Canine Cushing’s Disease

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Jack Russell Terriers?

Epilepsy
vonWillebrand’s Disease
Cerebellar Ataxia

Occasional Diagnoses

Deafness
Degenerative Myopathy (DM)
Primary Lens Luxation (PLL)

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for Jack Russell Terrier breed?

Dna For Vwd
CERF
Physical Examination
Eye examination
Brain Auditory Evoked Response (BAER)

Jack Russell Terrier Needs and Activities


Energy

Do Jack Russell Terriers have a lot of energy?

Jack Russell Terriers are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Do Jack Russell Terriers need socialization? How social are Jack Russell Terriers?

Jack Russell Terriers have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should Jack Russell Terriers get?

The Jack Russell Terrier needs a high level of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They also make great companions for people who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy running, hiking or other outdoor activities. These breeds are not suitable for people with sedentary lifestyle or those who live in small apartments

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should a Jack Russell Terrier have? Do Jack Russell Terriers sleep a lot?

Jack Russell Terriers are active dogs that don't require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Does a Jack Russell Terrier drool a lot?

The Jack Russell Terrier is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

Jack Russell Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently, they are not a good fit for quiet homes.

Territorial

Do Jack Russell Terriers exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

These dogs are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.

Mouthiness

Are Jack Russell Terriers mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of a Jack Russell Terrier running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do Jack Russell Terrier dogs have a high prey drive?

Past times

What do Jack Russell Terriers enjoy doing? How do I keep my Jack Russell Terrier busy?

Walking, Spa day, Fetch, Run, Frisbee, Hide & Seek, Playing, Dressing up, Tug-of-war, Road trip, Hike, Chase, Dog Parks, Treats, Running, Walk, Chew, Go to Park, Play, Skateboarding, Tricks, Beach, Playing fetch, Scenting, Walks, Wrestling, Cuddling, Sleeping

Tolerance of being left alone

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for a Jack Russell Terrier?

The Jack Russell Terrier is a breed of dog that is known for its low grooming needs.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush a Jack Russell Terrier?

Weekly

Jack Russell Terrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Jack Russell Terriers?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Costs


Jack Russell Terrier Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is a Jack Russell Terrier?

The Jack Russell Terrier breed is considered very intelligent and easy to train.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is a Jack Russell Terrier dog?

This dog breed is more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. They need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Are Jack Russell Terrier dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do Jack Russell Terrier do well in apartments? Are Jack Russell Terriers good indoor dogs?

The Jack Russell Terrier is not an apartment-friendly dog breed. This dog breed is best in a home with a large, fenced-in yard. They are not suited for apartment life and can become destructive due to pent up energy from being in a small space.

Child Friendly

Are Jack Russell Terriers good with kids? Are Jack Russell Terriers good around children?

Jack Russell Terriers are average friendly dogs towards children.

Senior-friendly

Are Jack Russell Terriers good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are Jack Russell Terriers good with cats? How friendly Jack Russell Terriers are toward cats?

Jack Russell Terriers are below average friendly toward cats. But with the right training and socialization, Jack Russell Terriers can be good with cats,

Dog Friendly

Do Jack Russell Terrier dogs get along with other dogs? Are Jack Russell Terriers OK with other dogs?

Jack Russell Terriers are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some,

Pet friendly

How do Jack Russell Terrier dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are Jack Russell Terriers friendly with strangers?

Jack Russell Terriers are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish. Early socialisation is key.

Playfulness

Do Jack Russell Terriers like to play? Are Jack Russell Terriers playful?

Jack Russell Terriers are known to be highly playful dog. So if you're not up for all that, think about adopting a slightly older Jack Russell Terrier for a mellower experience.

Trainability

Are Jack Russell Terrier easily trained?

Jack Russell Terrier dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.

Pros Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Intelligent and trainable
    Jack Russell Terriers are highly intelligent and have the ability to learn quickly, which makes them relatively easy to train.
  • Boat Dog
    The Jack Russell Terrier breed has an inclination towards being on boats.
  • Active and energetic
    This breed has a lot of energy and requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
  • Loyal and affectionate
    Jack Russell Terriers are known for being loyal and affectionate with their families, and they tend to bond closely with their owners.

Cons

  • Not Hypoallergenic
    While beloved by many, Jack Russell Terriers may not be appropriate for those with allergies due to the possibility of allergic reactions.
  • Shedding
    Jack Russell Terriers have above average shedding compared to other dog breeds.
  • High energy
    While this can be a pro for some people, the high energy level of Jack Russell Terriers may not be suitable for everyone. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
  • Not suitable for office environment
    Jack Russell Terriers may not thrive in an office setting
  • Barking
    Jack Russell Terriers are known for their vocalization, which can include barking, and may not be suitable for apartment living or other situations where noise is a concern.
  • Tendency to gain weight
    Overlooking a Jack Russell Terrier's weight can lead to weight gain.
  • Health issues
    As with any breed, Jack Russell Terriers may be prone to certain health issues, such as Patellar Luxation, Cataracts, Glaucoma, Legg-Calve Perthes Disease, Subaortic Stenosis, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Canine Cushing’s Disease, and other issues.