The Jack Russell terrier, a lively little dog full of vitality

Small in size but bursting with vitality, the Jack Russell terrier retains all the characteristics of its hunting dog origins. He must at all costs be able to exert himself to release his energy. As such, it is above all a dog of the countryside rather than cities. Very intelligent and affectionate, the Jack Russell terrier also enjoys family life where he can be cocooned and participate in children's games.

• Height:                 25 to 35 cm
• Weight:                6 to 8 kg
• Hair:                    short
• Color:                  white, sometimes with black or ocher spots
• Life expectancy: 15 years
• Gestation period: 68 days

Description and characteristics of the Jack Russell terrier

The Jack Russell terrier is a small dog that is part of the Terrier group, whose body is longer than it is tall. He is a robust and very active dog. His short coat is either soft or harsh and is made to withstand the elements. The Jack Russell terrier can be entirely white or also have more or less dark black or fawn-colored spots. Its ears are most commonly tawny in color but they can be white as well. These fall towards the front of his head. The Jack Russell terrier has a muscular body, especially its neck and chest, and an ever-moving tail.

Origin of the Jack Russell terrier

The Jack Russell terrier originates from England. It takes its name from the pastor Jack Russel, a hunting enthusiast, who created this breed from several species of fox terriers to end up with a dog capable of running quickly and of small size to fetch foxes and game hidden in earth holes.

Character and behavior of the Jack Russell terrier – Who is it for?

The Jack Russell terrier is a popular pet dog. But we must not forget that he is above all a hunting dog with a strong personality, which overflows with energy and which needs large spaces to exert itself. It is, therefore, preferable to have a garden to adopt a Jack Russell terrier. Otherwise, he will have to be taken out several times a day in spacious places such as a park or a forest so that he can let off steam.

The Jack Russell terrier, a lively dog, is therefore not recommended for sedentary people, especially older people who no longer have the possibility of moving around easily. The master or mistress of the Jack Russell terrier is rather a person who loves nature, leaving home for long walks and for sport. Friendly and very intelligent, he is a dog who loves family life and especially children with whom he takes pleasure above all in playing.

How to take care of your Jack Russell terrier: his needs

As indicated above, the Jack Russell terrier must absolutely be able to spend his energy running and having fun in wide-open spaces. He needs a lot of activities, games, and sports. As a pet, the Jack Russell terrier must be well educated and well trained to successfully control its lively and assertive character. Due to its origins, like all hunting dogs, the Jack Russell terrier is very curious and is quick to escape. As for grooming, this breed of dog does not require special attention.

Feeding the Jack Russell terrier

The Jack Russell terrier eats croquettes and boxes adapted to his age, weight, and activity. Be careful, however, to offer him a balanced diet because he is a greedy dog. Only one meal a day is fine. Note, you should not give him chocolate which contains a molecule toxic to the Jack Russell terrier.

The health of the Jack Russell terrier

The Jack Russell terrier is robust. If he is dewormed 2 to 3 times a year, protected from fleas and ticks, and well vaccinated, he generally does not pose any particular health problems. However, he may be subject to a type of dwarfism which results in shortening and deforming his limbs.