The Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is one of the most popular dog breeds to have in a home. They are full of life and one of the cutest pets. The Jack Russell is a small dog only growing to fourteen inches and seventeen pounds. Their characteristics include small floppy ears, a short tail, and short legs with oversized paws.

They are typically white with tan or black. They usually have a brown spot on the side or back, near the neck, and their ears and head are usually a mask of tan. The snout is short, with narrow set eyes. They are constant shedders despite the short hair. The Jack Russell began its life in England in the 19th century. They were used for hunting, digging, and burrowing into foxholes and dens.

Today they are still popular for the hunts as well as for pets. You will find that even though they are small they are hardy and loyal. They tend to be fearless, with their big heart.

You will find that they can be quite vocal with their bark, but it is more the large bark than a yappy sound. In fact they're bark is much stronger than their size. They are very loyal dogs and therefore they make excellent guard dogs. You will find they are better with older children as they like the well behaved over the harsh treatment of younger children.

They are amusing as well as very active dogs. You will find that they have strong hunting instincts, which makes them difficult for smaller pet households. They do need a lot of attention from their owners so beware. Training of the Jack Russell Terrier can be difficult.

They tend to display determination, stubbornness and dominance. You will need to have a consistent hand, be firm, and provide a lot of different activities. They can become bored rather easily. They also need to know who is master.

If they feel they can be master you will have obedience issues. Training should begin as a puppy and continue on through adulthood. They do need a little socialization, but are relatively friendly dogs on the whole. Keep in mind training should use the agility they can display. For care you will find a protein diet is essential to keep their energy up. You will also find that despite the energy they can have weight issues.

They should be fed three times a day, with small meals. You should always give them plenty of water. They need minimal grooming, such as a weekly brushing, and should not be bathed unless necessary.

Jack Russell's need to have their nails trimmed on a regular basis. They are prone to deafness, glaucoma, epilepsy, allergies, and skin problems. You should also provide plenty of exercise.

They need to have constant stimulation indoors and out. This means long walks, plenty of toys, and preferably a home with a yard. They can be destructive if left alone with nothing to do. If you wish to have a Jack Russell Terrier in your life you need to be prepared for the attention they need. They do best in homes that have at least one person home for most of the day.

They also need to be walked at least twice a day and they thrive on chasing balls and catching sticks. You will find that any mentally stimulating activity will keep them happy. Care of any dog is important and understanding the commitment you need to make is very important. Many find that the Jack Russell becomes too much to handle for a two career family.

Make sure you have thought this over before seeking a breeder for a puppy.

Gerry Ronson works for the website dog toys and accessories, which sells dog coats.