Jack Russell Breed Guide
Formal breed name: Jack Russell Terrier
Also known as: JRT, Jack, Parson Jack Russell
Small dogs with enormous courage, Jack Russell Terriers are energetic working terriers whose fearless nature and intelligence keep owners constantly entertained.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Small
Weight
5-6 kg
Lifespan
12-16 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Small
Weight
5-6 kg
Lifespan
12-16 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Moderate
About Jack Russells
The Jack Russell Terrier was developed in England during the 1800s by Reverend John Russell, who wanted a small, brave terrier capable of hunting fox both above and below ground. These dogs were bred for their tenacity, intelligence, and ability to work independently.
Jack Russell Terriers are small, compact dogs with predominantly white coats and tan or black markings. They come in three coat varieties: smooth, broken, and rough.
These dogs are energetic, intelligent, and make excellent pets for active owners who can provide adequate exercise and mental stimulation. They're known for their fearless personalities and strong prey drive. They require consistent training and early socialisation to manage their natural hunting instincts. While generally healthy, potential concerns include luxating patella, eye problems, and certain genetic conditions. Early socialisation is crucial to ensure they're well-adjusted around other pets and strangers.
Complete Care Guide for Jack Russells
Expert advice on keeping your Jack Russell healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing proper nutrition for a Jack Russell requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs. These energetic terriers thrive on high-quality, nutrient-dense foods that support their active lifestyle and robust metabolism. A well-balanced diet should consist primarily of premium proteins to maintain muscle mass and support their boundless energy.
Establishing a consistent feeding schedule proves essential for these small but mighty dogs. Breaking their daily food allowance into two or three measured portions helps prevent digestive issues and maintains stable blood sugar levels throughout the day. This approach particularly benefits Jack Russells, who may experience stomach sensitivity despite their hardy nature.
When selecting food options, consider both wet and dry varieties to promote dental health. Crunchy kibble helps reduce plaque buildup, while moisture-rich foods can support hydration and kidney function. The ideal diet should feature easily digestible proteins, moderate amounts of healthy fats, and limited starchy carbohydrates—especially important for indoor dogs or those with lower activity levels.
Portion control remains crucial for Jack Russells, as their enthusiastic approach to food can lead to overfeeding. Monitor their weight regularly and adjust portions accordingly, keeping in mind that their high energy expenditure requires more calories per kilogram than larger, less active breeds.
How healthy is your Jack Russell?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Jack Russells from our community of pet parents
Jack Russells are known for their energetic, fearless, and independent temperament. They are extremely intelligent, which, combined with their boundless energy, can sometimes lead to mischievous behaviour if not properly stimulated. They are typically very friendly and sociable dogs, but can be assertive and determined when they want to be.