Jack Russells 101

Terrier group

The Jack Russell Terrier, also known as the Parson Russell Terrier, is high-energy and independent dog who is as close to a real working terrier as it gets. JRT fans often laugh about the trouble these little charmers get into, which is good because these dogs can get into a lot of it. They are determined diggers, alert watch dogs and an endless source of entertainment.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Jack Russells

Endless energy, endlessly amusing.

The JRT is intensely devoted to family, scrappy with other dogs, and generally not safe around small pets such as rats and guinea pigs. They’re a very smart breed, but not particularly obedient – they can be stubborn and strong-willed. Despite that, these bright terriers do well at a variety of canine sports.

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
10 to 12 inches tall
Group Size Small
Lifespan
12 to 14 years
020
Weight
9 to 15 lbs
0150

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Mature adult Jack Russell

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions

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Dental disease

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Pancreatitis

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Skin allergies

Senior Jack Russell

10+ years

Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions

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Cataracts

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Kidney failure

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Liver disease

Jack Russell puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions

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Toxicity

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Gastritis

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Ear infection

Young adult Jack Russell

7 months to 5 years

Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions

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Allergic reaction

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Skin allergies

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Foreign body ingestion

Mature adult Jack Russell

6 years to 9 years

Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions

risk-level-bar

Dental disease

risk-level-bar

Pancreatitis

risk-level-bar

Skin allergies

Senior Jack Russell

10+ years

Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions

risk-level-bar

Cataracts

risk-level-bar

Kidney failure

risk-level-bar

Liver disease

Jack Russell puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions

risk-level-bar

Toxicity

risk-level-bar

Gastritis

risk-level-bar

Ear infection

Young adult Jack Russell

7 months to 5 years

Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions

risk-level-bar

Allergic reaction

risk-level-bar

Skin allergies

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

jack russell GettyImages-106443530

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3-Fun fact-Jack Russell terrier GettyImages-1394001793

Jack Russell Terriers gained popularity thanks to appearances in movies and TV shows. On the TV show “Frasier,” Eddie was played by two dogs: Moose and his son Enzo. The children’s series “Wishbone,” set in a fictional Texas town, featured the imaginary literary adventures of the title character, a JRT played by a dog named Soccer. Soccer got the part after showing off a back-flip.

Jack Russell Terrier coat care and colors

The Jack Russell Terrier comes in short- and wire-haired varieties. The short-haired version requires only regular brushing and the occasional bath. Depending on the length and condition of the wire coat, keeping the Jack Russell clipped short may be easier. For most Jacks, all that’s needed is occasional brushing to keep the coat in good shape. Additionally, acclimating puppies to having their feet handled will make a lifetime of nail trims easier.

Do Jack Russells need haircuts?

The Jack Russell comes in both short- and wire-haired coats, and neither kind needs trimming. Regular combing, brushing, and bathing as needed will help keep the coat looking great.

What kind of brush do you use on a Jack Russell?

A slicker brush will keep your Jack Russell Terrier's coat free of tangles, whether they have a smooth or rough coat. Regular brushing and bathing as needed will keep your Jack's healthy coat looking great.

How often do Jack Russells need to be bathed?

Most Jack Russells do well with 1 to 3 baths monthly, though may be bathed as often as weekly, or as little as a few times a year depending on the dog. There’s no need to wait until your dog is filthy or stinky to bathe them. You can extend the time between baths with regular brushing and combing.

Jack Russell exercise & training

Full speed ahead

Exercise level

Jack Russell Terriers are very active dogs who will find things to do if you don’t keep them busy. In addition to brisk walks, consider adding a dedicated sand pit for digging.

Independent study

Trainability

Fans of the feisty Jack Russell Terrier gleefully trade stories of the trouble their dogs get into. Get as early a start on manners and socialization as possible.

Jack Russell fun facts

Top girl names for Jack Russells

100%

of Jack Russells are female

0%

of Jack Russells are male

Top boy names for Jack Russells

Nationwide loves Jack Russell Terriers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Jack Russells

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