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Jack Russell Terrier Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Jack Russell Terrier so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank78
Reviews2
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Jack Russell Terrier dog profile picture
OriginEngland flagEngland
Other Names
What other names does the Jack Russell Terrier have?
JackRussell Terrier
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred The Jack Russell is considered a purebred dog breed, but many mixes and hybrids have been created from this breed. We have compiled a list of Jack Russell Mixes.

Jack Russell Terrier Size and Weight

Size
Is a Jack Russell Terrier small, medium or large dog?

How big do Jack Russell Terrier get?

What is the average size of a Jack Russell Terrier?

Small
Weight
How much does the Jack Russell Terrier weigh? How much should a Jack Russell Terrier weight? What is the normal weight of a Jack Russell Terrier? How much does a full-grown Jack Russell Terrier weight?
11-18 pounds (5-8 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Jack Russell Terrier?
14.5 pounds (6.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Jack Russell Terrier? Jack Russell Terrier height:
8-15 inches (20-38 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Jack Russell Terrier?
11.5 inches (29 cm)

Jack Russell Terrier Price and Availability

Price
How much does the Jack Russell Terrier puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Jack Russell Terrier in the United States? How much money is a Jack Russell Terrier?

Where to buy a Jack Russell Terrier with a good pedigree?

$700-$1000
If you choose to purchase the Jack Russell Terrier, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Jack Russell Terrier for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Jack Russell Terrier gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Jack Russell Terrier? How many Jack Russell Terrier are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Jack Russell Terrier is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Jack Russell Terrier Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Jack Russell Terrier? Is the Jack Russell Terrier breed dumb or smart?
Very smart: Jack Russell Terrier is an excellent dog breed. You can teach them many tricks and commands. The limit is your creativity. They understand and memorize new commands in 5-15 repetitions. This breed obeys the first command 85% of the time or better.

The Jack Russell Terrier is one of the top breeds in the dog intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are Jack Russell Terrier dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Jack Russell Terrier?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is Jack Russell Terrier good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Jack Russell Terrier dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Jack Russell Terrier dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Jack Russell Terrier can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Jack Russell Terrier will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Jack Russell Terrier Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Jack Russell Terrier have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
StubbornIndependentEnergeticAlertCourageousCheerful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Jack Russell Terrier sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Jack Russell Terrier dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Jack Russell Terrier a good family dog?
High: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Jack need? Jack Russell Terrier social needs:
Jack Russell Terrier dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Jack Russell Terrier to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Jack Russell Terrier roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Jack Russell Terrier is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Jack Russell Terrier have high prey drive?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Jack Russell Terrier dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Jack Russell Terrier Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The Jack Russell Terrier is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do Jack Russell Terrier dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Jack bark?
A lot: Jack Russell Terrier is a particularly loud breed. They often enjoy barking and howling loudly. If you want a quiet dog, not the best choice.

The main triggers for barking are fear, attention, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking, and defense.

Apartment Friendly
Is Jack Russell Terrier good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Jack Russell Terrier in an apartment?
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Jack Russell Terrier breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Jack Russell Terrier indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Jack Russell Terrier Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Jack Russell Terrier be left alone? How long can you leave a Jack Russell Terrier alone?
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Jack Russell Terrier Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the Jack Russell Terrier has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Jack Russell Terrier? How much bite force does a Jack Russell Terrier have? How strong is a Jack Russell Terrier bite?

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Jack Russell Terrier bite force: Weak. The Jack Russell Terrier bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force Jack Russell Terrier measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a Jack Russell Terrier may be weak, but it's important to remember that any dog's bite can still be dangerous if not managed properly. Despite the bite force of Jack Russell Terrier being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

Jack Russell Terrier bite wounds might not be as severe, but it is still essential to be cautious and prevent any biting incidents.

They are usually not aggressive and very friendly towards children and other animals. To ensure a well-behaved dog, it's essential to learn how to train a Jack Russell Terrier puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a Jack Russell Terrier can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

Biting Potential
Do Jack Russell Terrier bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Jack? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Jack Russell Terrier? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The Jack Russell Terrier has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Jack Russell Terrier do?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Jack Russell Terrier dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

Jack Russell Terrier Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Jack Russell Terrier dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Jack Russell Terrier is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Jack Russell Terrier breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Jack Russell Terrier breed? Most common health risks of Jack Russell Terrier:
Legg-perthes DiseasePatellar LuxationDeafnessGlaucomaLens Luxation
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Jack Russell Terrier breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Jack Russell Terrier see the vet?
Average
The Jack Russell Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do Jack Russell Terrier dogs live? How old can a Jack Russell Terrier be? What is the age limit of the Jack Russell Terrier? How many years can the oldest Jack Russell Terrier live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Jack Russell Terrier?

How long is the lifespan of a Jack Russell Terrier?

12-16 years
The average lifespan of Jack Russell Terrier: 14 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. However, in general, most dogs prefer average to warm weather conditions, as they typically find hot weather conditions to be uncomfortable and taxing.

Jack Russell Terrier Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Jack Russell Terrier have? What is the activity level of the Jack Russell Terrier?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Jack Russell Terrier need? How much exercise do Jack Russell Terrier dogs require per day?

Do Jack Russell Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises?

Jack Russell Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Jack Russell Terrier breed need?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Jack Russell Terrier Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Jack Russell Terrier need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Jack Russell Terrier breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Jack Russell Terrier? How much food should I feed my Jack Russell Terrier?
1/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Jack Russell Terrier risk for obesity:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Jack Russell Terrier's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Jack Russell Terrier weight regularly.

Jack Russell Terrier Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Jack Russell Terrier have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Rough
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Jack Russell Terrier coats?
BlackTan White
Grooming
How to groom the Jack Russell Terrier and how often? How often should I take my Jack Russell Terrier to the groomer?
Easy to groom: The Jack Russell Terrier doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Jack Russell Terrier is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Shedding Level
How much do Jack Russell Terrier dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Jack? Do Jack Russell Terrier dogs shed a lot?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are heavy shedders. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Be prepared for the daily vacuum cleaning. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Jack Russell Terrier need a bath? How often should you give a Jack Russell Terrier a bath? Can I bathe my Jack Russell Terrier every day?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Jack Russell Terrier breed hypoallergenic?
No
Jack Russell Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The Jack Russell Terrier has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Jack Russell Terrier drool?
The Jack Russell Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Jack Russell Terrier could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Jack Russell Terrier.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Jack Russell Terrier Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Jack Russell Terrier dogs get along with other pets? Are Jack Russell Terrier dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Jack Russell Terrier temperament with other people:
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Child Friendly
Are Jack Russell Terrier dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Jack Russell Terrier temperament with children:
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Cat Friendly
How well do Jack Russell Terrier dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Jack Russell Terrier breed live with a cat?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Jack Russell Terrier good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Jack Russell Terrier dogs get along with other dogs?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Jack Russell Terrier can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Jack Russell Terrier breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Jack Russell Terrier breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Jack Russell Terrier dogs good office canines? Do Jack Russell Terrier dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Jack Russell Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Jack Russell Terrier dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Jack temperament with senior people? Are Jack Russell Terrier dogs good for elderly owners?
Jack Russell Terriers are commonly okay with elderly people.

Jack Russell Terrier As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can Jack Russell Terrier be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Jack Russell Terrier is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Jack Russell Terrier be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Jack Russell Terrier be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Jack Russell Terrier is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Jack Russell Terrier be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Jack Russell Terrier is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Jack Russell Terrier be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Jack Russell Terrier is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Jack Russell Terrier be a boat dog?

Yes

Jack Russell Terrier breed usually likes being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, as a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Jack Russell Terrier be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Jack Russell Terrier is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Jack Russell Terrier dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Jack Russell Terrier Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Jack Russell Terrier pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Jack Russell Terrier breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Jack Russell Terrier: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Jack Russell Terrier have in a litter? How many puppies can the Jack Russell Terrier breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Jack Russell Terrier have? How many puppies can a Jack Russell Terrier give birth to?
4-8 puppies

Jack Russell Terrier Recognition

AKC Group
Is Jack Russell Terrier recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2012 as a Terrier breed.
FCI Group
Is Jack Russell Terrier recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Terriers group, in the Small sized Terriers section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the Jack Russell Terrier breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Australian National Kennel CouncilContinental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubNew Zealand Kennel ClubUnited Kennel ClubIrish Kennel ClubClub Espanol De TerriersJack Russell Terrier Club Of America

Jack Russell Terrier Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Very smart: Jack Russell Terrier is an excellent dog breed.
  • Grooming: Easy to groom: The Jack Russell Terrier doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Jack Russell Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Ability: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Adaptability: Jack Russell Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Dog Friendly: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Boat and Sailor Dog: Jack Russell Terrier breed usually likes being on a boat.

    Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

    Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages.

Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: Jack Russell Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Friendly: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Jack Russell Terrier breed.
  • Shedding Level: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are heavy shedders.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Jack Russell Terrier's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Mouthiness: Jack Russell Terrier dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Jack Russell Terrier is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Cat Friendly: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Jack Russell Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.

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Jack Russell Terrier Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • HELLO CUTE!

    Nov 19, 2020, 8:45:37 PM:

    SUCH A CUTE DOG BREED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • Someone

    Nov 19, 2020, 8:44:34 PM:

    The cutest dog breed ever!