notes on the Jack Russell terrier
The Jack
Russell is a small, compact, athletic dog and looks like a less refined working
Fox Terrier. White (at least 51%) with reddish black, tan, or brown markings,
especially in the head and tail. The skull is flat between the ears, then
tapering. The stop is defined, but not abrupt. The nose is black and the almond-shaped
eyes are dark. The v-shaped ears fold forward. The Jack Russell has a flexible
body and fairly small chest (easily spanned by the average man's hands) to
enable him to go to ground after his prey. The docked tail is carried gaily
and set fairly high. Comes in smooth, broken, and wire-haired varieties. The
broken coat is a cross of rough and smooth coat - long body hair, a slightly
fuzzy face and a smooth head. An Irish-type called Jack Russell Shortys have
shorter legs than the English-type.
The Jack Russell Terrier is a perky, merry, devoted, and loving dog. Spirited
and obedient, yet absolutely fearless. Careful and amusing, he enjoys games
and playing with toys. Friendly and generally kind to children who have been
taught not to tease or strike the dog. They are intelligent, yet willful and
determined. They can be slightly difficult to train and need a firm, experienced
trainer. The Jack Russel can be aggressive with other dogs if not well trained
and socialized. Some have killed or been killed in dog fights. Early socialization
can help substantially moderate this trait. They have strong hunting instincts
(stronger than your average terrier) and should not be trusted with other
small animals. They like to chase and explore. Be careful not to let them
off the lead unless they are very well-trained. Jack Russells like to bark
and dig. They tend to get restless and destructive if not kept fruitfully
occupied and well exercised. Jack Russells climb, which means they can climb
over a fence, they also jump. A Jack that stands 12 inches high can easily
jump five feet. JRTs are not the breed for a inexperienced dog owner. This
is a BIG dog in a little dogs body. The owner needs to be as strong-willed
as they are, or this little guy will take over. With the right owner this
little dog can really excel, but is not recommended for those who have not
had prior experience with terriers.
The Jack Russel Terrier was developed in 19th century England by a clergyman
named Jack Russell. This feisty little terrier was used to hunt small game,
particularly fox, by digging the quarry out of its den. Breeders have emphasized
its working ability, so the standard is very broad, encompassing a wide range
of accepted body types. On English hunts, the Jack Russell Terriers were supposed
to be long-legged enough to keep up with the hounds.ĘThe energetic and playful
Jack Russell makes a good family companion. Some of the Jack Russell's talents
include: hunting, tracking, agility, and performing tricks.
Portrait
of two Jack Russell Terriers Two beautiful litter mates. |
for
more terrier portraits and other dog breeds -
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