Five things to know about Jack Russell terriers if you're considering one as a pet
By Katrina Warren|
Jack Russell terriers are energetic little dogs known for their intelligence and spirited nature. However, they are not the dog for everyone.
Before bringing a Jack Russell into your home, here are five essential things to know about this lively breed.
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High energy levels
Don't be fooled by their small size, Jack Russell terriers are energetic and athletic.?
They need a significant amount of daily physical and mental activity to keep them satisfied. This can include outdoor activity, dedicated play sessions, and interactive toys to keep their minds engaged.?
If you lead a sedentary lifestyle or need more time to commit to regular exercise, there are better choices than a Jack Russell. Their energy level often shocks first-time owners, and a bored Jack Russell often engages in destructive behaviours like chewing and digging.
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Intelligence?
Jack Russell terriers are intelligent, quick learners and usually excel in dog sports like flyball, agility and obedience.?
They require consistent training from an early age, and positive reinforcement training methods work best.?
These dogs typically respond well to trick training and love playing games.
They love to chase
Jack Russells were originally bred to hunt small game, and many have retained this hunting instinct.?
They may chase after neighbourhood cats, birds, or other small animals and should always be kept on a leash when street walking.?
Early socialisation with other animals is recommended, especially if you have small pets like rabbits or birds.
Their love of chasing means they are usually ball fanatics and can become obsessed with games of fetch.
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Long lifespan
Jack Russells have a relatively long lifespan compared to many other breeds, often living between 12 to 16 years.?
This means you'll hopefully have your companion by your side for many years, but it also means you must be prepared for the long-term commitment.
Owning a Jack Russell is a significant responsibility that should not be taken lightly.
Health concerns
Like all breeds, Jack Russells are prone to specific health issues. Some of the common issues are patellar luxation, deafness, and certain eye conditions such as lens luxation and cataracts.
Researching genetic conditions and buying from a reputable breeder who screens for genetic health concerns is extremely important.?
Please consider rescue as an option. There are rescue groups, such as https://www.jrtrescue.net that rehome dogs of all ages that are looking for their forever home.?
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