INTRODUCTION

Developed in England some 200 years ago to hunt foxes, the Jack Russell Terrier, also known as the Parson Russell Terrier, is a lively, independent and intelligent little dog. They are charming and affectionate, but they are also difficult to train and handle. Although they are purebred dogs, you may find them in shelters and foster homes. Remember to adopt. At first, this small, lovable, affectionate dog may seem like a good choice for new pet parents and flat dwellers. But you may be surprised at the energy and intensity of this little puppy. These dogs need plenty of exercise and firm, consistent training, or else they may exhibit undesirable behaviours. That said, if you can handle a little fuss and can keep up with an energetic puppy, you will be rewarded with a loving and loyal friend for life.It is important to remember that dogs of any breed can suffer from health problems throughout their lives. A good pet insurance plan can help you prepare to give your dog the care it needs at any age.

HIGHLIGHTS

The Jack Russell Terrier, like many terriers, enjoys digging and can dig quite a large hole in a short time. It is easier to train a dog to dig in a specific area than to break the digging habit.Jack Russell Terriers should have a securely fenced yard to give them space to play and burn off their abundant energy. Underground electronic fences will not hold them back. Jacks have been known to climb trees and even metal fences to escape their yards, so their outdoor time is best supervised.Owners of first-time or timid dogs would do well to choose another type of dog. The Jack can be a challenge even for an experienced dog owner. The Jack can be a recreational barking dog and is therefore not suitable for flat living. Aggression towards other dogs can be a serious problem with the Jack Russell Terrier if he is not taught to get along with other canines from an early age.The Jack Russell thrives when he is with his family and should not live outdoors or in a kennel. When you leave the house, try to turn on a radio to avoid separation anxiety.Jack Russells are jumpers and will jump on people and things. They are capable of jumping over 1.5 metres in height.Jack Russells have a strong prey drive and will go after smaller animals. Jack Russell Terriers have a strong prey drive and will go after smaller animals. They need several walks a day, or several good games in the yard. To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from a puppy mill, pet shop or breeder that does not offer health guarantees or health clearances. Look for a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs to make sure they are free of genetic diseases that can be passed on to puppies and who breeds dogs of good temperament.

HISTORY

The Jack Russell Terrier was developed in the south of England in the mid 19th century by Parson John Russell, after whom the breed was named. Russell’s aim was to create a working terrier that hunted with hounds, flushing foxes from their dens so that the hounds could chase them. The breed was known in the USA in the 1930s, and several breed clubs emerged with differing opinions on the Jack’s appearance, working ability and whether it should compete in conformation shows or remain a working dog.The Jack Russell Terrier Club of America maintains a separate registry and considers the Jack purely a hunting dog, but the Jack Russell Terrier Association of America (JRTCA) applied for recognition by the American Kennel Club, which was granted in 2000. To differentiate it from the JRTCA registered dogs, the American Kennel Club changed the name of the breed to the Parson Russell Terrier.