#Dog #Breed of the #Month: #JackRussellTerrier, Jan. 2013

Featured dog breed of the month: Jack Russell Terrier



Photo by Dusty J-Foter.com-CC BY
The Jack Russell Terrier breed- also known as Parson Jack Russell Terrier- dates back to 1700s England. Bred to be a pack hunter, the Jack Russell can be difficult to train in basic obedience because the dog's hunting instinct is so strong that it can’t concentrate on your commands. But with some patience, Jack Russell’s can be taught to do a variety of advanced tricks because this dog breed is highly intelligent. That’s what makes it one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Surprisingly, this terrier was only granted registration in the American Kennel Club in 2016.

Bred to hunt gophers, rodents, and small underground animals, Jack Russell’s are high energy dogs that need a lot of exercise. They can run incredibly fast and have a high metabolism, so Jack Russell's burn off a lot of calories. The breed is playful but can be shy with unfamiliar dogs. Oddly enough, the Jack Russell Terrier is known to have an affinity for horses- the animal least likely to burrow...

This breed of terrier is small- usually 10-13 inches in height, with a docked tail. Their coats can be smooth, broken, or rough. These terriers are not prettied up for dog shows and despite this they are adorable.

Jack Russell Terrier dog breed information
Photo by Szagi-Foter.com-CC BY-NC

The breed has minimal health issues- being in good health was something it was specifically bred for. Cases of eyesight deterioration, lens luxation and patellar luxation are more common health concerns of the Jack Russell. Minor issues such as deafness, glaucoma, and ataxia have been known to occur. Jack Russell Terriers should have regularly scheduled eye tests. Their high-energy can lead to anxiety issues if they don't get enough exercise, and they can be known to whine or wheeze. Pay attention if your Jack Russell is behaving strangely. If you have squirrels in your attic or mice in your basement, these dogs will find them!

Jack Russell Terrier’s average life span is 13-15 years. Although they may not make the best pets to be around small children and infants, they do make great family pets in households with older children. They are fun, intelligent dogs that can be very affectionate. Their smarts earned them star status in Hollywood, but it’s the Jack Russell’s personality that wins over dog lovers again and again.

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