How to Choose a Puppy
Warning: Jacks love to contribute and help their humans in every way they can. They love to help to the point of driving their owners crazy at times. Are you absolutely certain this is the type of dog you want???
There are several factors to consider when choosing a puppy, not the least of which is the answer to the questions, Why do you want a puppy? What will you expect from the dog as it matures? Are your lifestyles compatible, and will you able to meet it's needs?
One very important matter to consider is that Jacks are very active, and need a household where they can be very active. It is unfair to choose an energetic, spunky Jack Russell Terrier only to have it spend it’s life sitting in the house, or a kennel, and not let it live the active lifestyle that it needs. Jack Russell’s do best in a home with very active people, a home where they can play sports and go hunting, where they can be a contributing member of their family.
Never choose a pup based on it’s looks alone.
Each puppy has an individual personality and characteristics that is unique to him/her. Choosing a puppy based on it’s looks or confirmation is degrading, and often results in conflicting personalities between dogs and their humans, making for unhappy dogs and families. Each pup is a unique individual and deserves the respect of being treated as such.
It is often a good idea to wait until the pups are at least six weeks old before making your final choice. At this age the individual personalities and characteristics are far more developed, and it is far easier to make a more accurate analysis of their puppy characteristics and personalities, to provide a better opportunity to choose a puppy that fits the characteristics that you are looking for.
Look for good genetics.
First and foremost, always look at the parentage of the litter. If the parents are good sociable dogs, then there is a fair chance that the pups will be good too. Always choose a puppy from parents who are good at what you want your pup to be good at. For example, if you want a good hunting dog, then choose a puppy from parents that are good hunting dogs. If you want a puppy that will grow to be a good agility dog, then choose a puppy from a litter whose parents are good agility dogs. If you are looking for a good all around pet and companion, then the same principle holds true, find dogs that fit into your model of an ideal companion, and choose a puppy from there.
Next, look over the entire litter. Watch how the pups interact with you and each other. Some will be a little more bold, and others may be more reserved. Some are very inquisitive, while others are content to stay on the sidelines and enjoy the view. It is important to remember not to choose the characteristics that you do not want in an adult dog. For example, if you would like your puppy to grow up to be the type of dog that is content to spend it’s days in the house and it’s weekends at the park, then never choose a wild and ambitious puppy. A wild and fearless puppy may be fun to play with at first, but do you really want a wild and fearless dog to contend with for the next 15 or so years?
Every rule is not without exceptions, but a good rule of thumb is that a brave and fearless puppy, may grow into a brave and fearless adult. Likewise, a reserved pup may grow up to be a reserved dog. And there is a good chance that an easy going, sociable pup will have those same lovable qualities as an adult.
The third thing to look for is how the pup acts when not with it’s littermates. Choose a pup to look at and ask the breeder if you can see that pup alone. Then watch how it acts. Does it strut boldly, wag it’s tail, cock it’s head to the side when you speak, slink away, bark at you, pull on your shoe laces, curious, nibble on your fingers, give puppy kisses, a combination of these thing, etc.
Battle of the sexes.
Another question to ask yourself, is do you want a male or female. Some males are more bold and fearless, but can often be more aloof and carefree. While generally speaking females like to please their owners and are more concerned with the goings on in the family.
Some female Jacks can be very opinionated and set in their ways. They have been known to manipulate their owners and even sulk when they do not get their way.
Some males tend to be very aggressive and good at sports, while the females generally are better hunters and good at obedience.
Of course this is only the beginning.
Genetics are only the first half of a good dog and they will only take the pup so far. A good environment and proper training and socialization in the puppy’s new home will help your pet to become a well adjusted, happy and trusted member of your family.
All content, including pictures, copyrighted © by Prairie Jacks - 2008.
