Is a Jack Russell terrier the right dog for you?

The Jack Russell Terrier, also known as the Parson Russell Terrier, is an extremely energetic, happy and hard-working breed.

They exhibit many classic terrier traits that include excessive barking, willfulness, apprehension to strangers, aggression, and jealousy.

Jack Russells generally are not suited for homes with children or other animals. They can be unusually aggressive toward other dogs. This breed packs a big personality into a very tiny frame.

If you love Jack Russells but aren’t sure whether one is right for you, consider the following points before you decide to bring a puppy home. 

Jack Russell terrier history

This working terrier takes its name from the Rev. John Russell, an active member of the church in England and a dog breeder. Russell had a passion for breeding fox hunting dogs.

Everything about the breed’s genetic makeup was designed for hunting. Their proportionate and compact bodies, coloring, conformation, characteristics, and intelligence make them born to be excellent hunters.

Exercise needs

The breed’s high energy makes them perfect for someone who lives a very active lifestyle. They make excellent dogs to play fetch with at the park or take on long weekend hikes.

This breed requires a high level of stimulation; otherwise, they become bored. If you plan to adopt a Jack Russell, it’s important to remember they need constant attention and exercise.

According to experts, the Jack Russell has an eagerness to explore, which can often lead to wandering. If you’re planning to take home a Jack Russell, consider having a large, gated backyard with a lot of room for them to run.

Training

Due to their high energy and intelligence, Jack Russells are quick to learn but requires persistence and patience.

They do need clear and consistent practice to be properly trained. According to The Jack Russell Terrier Club of America, here are a few tips to consider:  

• Start training early. 
• Make sure your puppy is at least eight weeks old before you start training.
• Establish dominance early. If you don’t, your terrier will easily assert itself as the head of your household.
• Consistency is key.
• Use positive reinforcement techniques that reward the puppy for good behavior.
• Teach your terrier to listen to you and understand bed manners if they growl or snap at you while in your bed this is a sign that they’re trying to be dominant. Make your Jack Russell sleep in their bed for a few nights if they exhibit this behavior.
• Never keep more than two Jack Russells in one area when you are not at home to supervise.
• Attend an obedience class.

Are Jack Russell terriers aggressive?

Karen Salter, an injury attorney who handles dog bite cases, Pitbulls, Rottweilers, and German shepherds are more likely to attack. But even attacks by small dogs like Jack Russell Terriers can be dangerous.  These little guys can be very aggressive, and bites from little dogs hurt, too.

Be sure to monitor the dog if it’s around children and keep it on a leash when around new people or other dogs to prevent an attack.

Their high energy and natural assertiveness make Jack Russells great watchdogs. But they need supervision around strangers and even houseguests.

Because they were bred for hunting, their instinct is to be dominant and aggressive.

Adopting a new best friend

Knowing what to be prepared for before you take home your adorable Jack Russell puppy or dog is a crucial part of how you will bond together. Their Napoleon complex will make them very territorial, but once you assert your dominance, they are the most loyal companions and will be your best friend for life.

Alana Redmond is a graduate in Media and Business from the University of California San Diego. She is also a consumer safety writer for safer-america.com and an avid dog lover. Instagram: @its_lonnie