Jack Russell Terrier

Description:

The Jack Russell Terrier is a handsome and well balanced dog designed to keep pace with horses during a fox hunt and to fit into tight spaces in pursuit of its quarry. The skull is flat with moderate stop, and is topped with small v-shaped ears that drop forward toward the eyes. Eyes are dark and almond shaped, conveying an expression of sharp intelligence. Jaws are powerful and meet in a scissors bite. The body is clean and athletically muscular, ending in a high-set, gaily carried and docked tail. Feet are compact, round and catlike. The Jack Russell Terrier’s coat is either broken or smooth; in either case, the outer coat is harsh, dense and close. Coloring is white on most of the body, with black, tan, and/or brown markings. 

Temperament:

The Jack Russell is a classic terrier, with energy and playfulness to spare. Jacks are inherently curious and busy, and make a point of being in the middle of everything all the time. This dog is always up for a game or adventure, and is an unequalled playmate for child and adult alike. The dog also has a fantastic sense of humor, and is sure to keep your family in stitches with its crazy antics and spunky attitude. Jack Russell Terriers love children and are more friendly toward strangers than most terriers; Jacks may be aggressive with other dogs and are notorious for chasing small pets (especially cats).  

Caring for a Jack Russell Terrier:

The Jack Russell Terrier needs abundant physical and mental exercise every day, or it will drive you mad with its digging and unspent energy. A long walk is a great way to burn some calories, but an intense game is even better. Be careful when letting your Jack Russell Terrier off leash in areas where other dogs are present, as some can be dog aggressive; also keep an eye on this dog at all times, because it will sometimes dig itself into a hole and disappear from sight. The Jack Russell Terrier is fairly weather resistant, but it should live inside with its family. Caring for the smooth coat requires occasional brushing, while the broken coat variety will need occasional hand stripping. The Jack Russell Terrier lives a long time and is rarely ill, though lens luxation and patellar luxation are sometimes seen in the breed.