Temperment
So, you think you want a Jack Russell Terrier????
No doubt about it, Jack Russell Terriers are great dogs, but there are a few things to consider before bringing one home.
A Hunting Breed
The Jack Russell Terrier is a mighty hunting dog, with incredibly strong hunting instincts developed from hundreds of years of very careful selective breeding specifically for this purpose. And because the Jack Russell has such strong hunting instincts so deeply ingrained in their genetic make-up, dogs that have been raised in the house, and have never hunted a day in their life, can have a sudden urge of instinct and instantly run off after prey when it is least expected. It goes without saying that this instinctive little dog needs superb supervision at all times, as well as an exceptionally safe pen to play in when outside.
Smart As A Whip
Jack Russell Terriers are extremely intelligent and love to use their minds. This quality makes them perfect candidates for use in the TV and Movie industries. Unfortunately this same inquisitive nature is what many pet owners find unbearable. The Jack Russell Terrier has an insatiable need to be psychologically stimulated, and when this need is denied, this ingenious little terrier creates it's own entertainment which can often be referred to as problematic. Far too many Jacks have been abandoned because their owners were not prepared to interact with a dog that can rarely sit still.
On The Go
Physically, Jack Russell Terriers are active. The word "active" may actually be an understatement when applied to this untiring dog. Many dogs which have owners who will not allow a great deal of physical activity go stir crazy, and cause their owners a great deal of grief, barking incessantly, hunting other pets, digging up carpets and floor tiles, chewing furniture and clothing, and the list goes on and on. A prospective owner should not only research the breed, but also research local agility clubs and doggy sporting clubs for activities such as Flyball, Racing, and Steeplechase to meet the Terrier's daily, almost hourly, physical needs.
Beauty Is In The Eye Of The Beholder
Jack Russell Terriers are exceptionally cute and affectionate, with a happy go lucky demeanor. But ... they are the high maintenance princes and princesses of the canine world, demanding an untold amount of attention, time and work. They can get very jealous if they must share affection, and will expect the other pet to submit or else! When ignored or chastized they can react to the extreme and pee on the floor or sulk in the corner. If not recieving enough attention, they often find destructive outlets for their frustration, such as digging, chewing, barking, and running away to hunt. They are one of the most adorable and gorgeous (I suppose I may be slightly bias) breed of dogs in existence. Yet a Jack Russell owner must be willing to put up with a very high price of grooming. Jacks shed, sometimes excessively, and are in constant need of proper grooming.
A Small Dog With A Big Appetite
A common misconception is that because the Jack Russell Terrier is such a small breed, that it would also have a small appetite and be cheap to feed. The fact of the matter is that these terriers are hyper active, and as such have such a high metabolism that they are in need of a substancial amount of calories, often consuming as much food as a dog three times it's size. The Jack Russell excells on a fresh, human quality, well balanced, raw food diet. But the reality is that preparing this type of diet is a lot of work. Most Jack Russell owners find that a very high quality, grain free, commercial dog food is much easier. A good commercial dog food for this breed is one that contains a high quality protein source derived from meat, while at the same time avoiding foods that contain high amounts of corn or soy. Cereal grains such as corn can be extremely taxing on an active dog, doing damage to the dog's digestive system.
Happy Go Lucky
The Jack Russell Terrier can be a very friendly happy go lucky dog when properly socialized. Yet some Jack Russells can be quite protective over it's house and family when at home. In the field it is a different story altogether. Even Jacks that are protective in the home will often be quite friendly in the field, unless strangers try to pet them or pick them up. To produce a well rounded, happy, healthy, and most especially a very social good citizen, the Jack Russell Terrier must be well socialized very early on. When not socialized, the breed may tend to exhibit unacceptable aggressive tendencies to other dogs and animals. Early and consistant socialization is highly advisable.
A Social Butterfly
Some Jacks love to meet everyone, and will happily run up to play with anyone. Many Jack Russell Terriers love going for rides in the car and if not carefully supervised will gladly jump into any car with an open door. Their enthusiasm for new things and new people can at times be overwhelming. At these times the Jack can become uncontrollable if they have not been taught proper social manners. With early and consistant training, this terrier can be a well adjusted citizen. A lifelong commitment to proper terrier training methods is something that all Jack Russell owners should consider.
In The Burbs
Many Jack Russell Terriers have adapted to life in the suburbs, a far cry from their humble beginnings. Originally a serious hunting breed, this dog needs a tremendous amount of excercise and mental stimulation. The suburban families that are very physically active and spend a few hours a day in the park, jogging, biking, roller blading, etc, are the most successful at making this lifestyle work. Additionally, in almost every city across the country there are doggy sporting groups and clubs that can help to meet the terrier's almost excessive physical and psychological needs, which also provide great atmosphere and camaraderie, not only for canines, but their humans as well.
The Rural Life
Jack Russell Terriers excell at life on a farm. They love to spend the day fulfilling their deepest desire - to hunt. And the farm is the perfect place to do this. There are almost endless opportunities for a Jack on the farm, it can chase squirrels and birds, perhaps catch a few rats or mice hiding in the barn, and even try to help the farmer with the chores. They love to keep the wile geese, ducks and rabbits from eating the garden vegetables or the grain in the fields.
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