Jack Russell Terrier Dog Breed Information
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13 to 14 years
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Expensive *
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Star
Superstar
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Rare
Easy to get
Introduction
Bothy, a Jack Russell Terrier is the only breed in history that has travelled to both the north and south poles. A feat that can be never be repeated again ever. Why you ask? The Antarctica Treaty Nations of 1994 bans all dogs from Antarctica. So your Jack Russell Terrier will not be a part of the Transglobe expedition.
Jack Russell Terrier or the Parson Terrier is the same breed, which is just known by different names, these little energy bundles will light up almost any home with their antics. You will often hear the words vivacious and live wire associated with this breed. These adjectives describe the breed perfectly. These little mischief mongers were bred for phenomenal speed that was required to catch red foxes.
You would be surprised that this breed alone can spoil an entire birthday party with a whopping record of popping 100 balloons in less than a minute. It is very important for present and prospective owners to keep in mind that this is a super hyper dog that will bite, yap, bounce and jump on almost everything possible.
The Jack Russell Terriers are the perfect dogs for both adults as well as families. They can also adapt to both apartment as well as yard style of living, after all which dog does not like a yard. The only word of caution for apartment dwellers is that one has to remember to give them an hour of free run every day to ensure that their energies are channelized properly.
Their quirky faces have made them a perfect choice for various movies and shows. Though, a word of caution if you are leaving this dog in the yard or the balcony in sun then ensure that he or she has their dose of sunscreen on!! This is a requirement to save the skin and coat. This strong willed and independent dog does not make training an option but it makes it a compulsion for all its owners. You get two different sizes for the same breed; one has a little longer legs than the other along with two option in the coat as well.
In the following sections we will help you to know your breed better or if you are prospective owner then we will help you test the waters before you select this breed.
History
Let us start from the beginning, the Jack Russell Terrier originated in South England somewhere around 1800s and owes its origin to the now extinct English White Terrier. The breed was developed for hunting red foxes both below and above the ground. This was the prime reason that they were given a compact chest that will enable them to fit into burrows. He developed two distinct varieties one a little taller than its counterpart.
Unique Aspects
One of the first things that you would see in your Jack Russell Terrier or the JRT is their perpetual jumping. You will be surprised that these little devils can jump five times higher than their own height. If you are not impressed by the statistics, think it this way the German Shepherd can only jump four times his or her height.
So, wherever you keep that coveted cookie jar he might just reach it. The JRT is a very friendly breed and will love to play and be with strangers and other dogs but you have to remember that with this breed the tide can change fast when it comes to other dogs. So, do not be surprised if the amicable relationship between two dogs suddenly develops into a combat over something as trivial as a chew toy. It is always advisable to supervise this breed even when it is playing with other dogs.
The other thing that always needs to be kept in mind is that JRTs are one of the best escape artists. So, it is absolutely essential to ensure that there is fencing in the yard and remember that this one can jump and it can jump high. So ensure a minimal of over five feet fence is a major requirement for this dog if you want to give it a free run.
Fun Trivia
The quirky face and the abundance of energy have made these little devils a hit on the silver screen. Here is a list of some movies and celebrities that fallen in love with this feisty breed.
Movie character
One of the most famous Jack Russell Terrier of all times is Eddie, the faithful companion in the hit TV Series, Frazier. In fact it was one of the few calm demeanour JRTs around. Milo was another JRT that featured in Mask; ‘My Dog Skip’ is again a story featuring a Jack Russell Terrier.
Along with this they have been a part of Ernest goes to Jail, Clean State, Hotel for Dogs and Water for Elephants.
Celebrity JRT owners
There are various celebrities that are the proud owner of this breed. One of the most famous celebrities includes singers Mariah Carey and Nick Brown, Charlotte Church and Paul McCartney. Actress Better Midler is a proud pet parent to a JRT and it is also faithful companion to tennis star Serena Willams. At present they are even a member of the British royalty by being an extended member of the family of The Prince of Wales i.e. Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles.
Vital Stats:
Dog Breed Group: Terrier Dogs
Height: 13-19 Inches
Weight: 6-8 Kg
Life Span: 13 to 14 years
Pros
- Abundance of energy
- Grooming does not require much effort
- Excellent with children and family member
Cons
- Needs at least an hour of run everyday
- Not for first time pet owner
- Not tolerant towards other pets