Originally bred for chasing foxes out of their dens and burrows, the Jack Russell terrier is first and foremost a working dog. This very fact tends to put many potential pet owners off selecting a Jack Russell as a family pet. This article aims to dispel the myths about JRTs and give an insight into what this lively little dog is all about.
Myth #1: Jack Russell Terriers are Only Suited to Farm Life
Not so. Provided she is given the chance to run off some energy a couple of times a day, a JRT will happily spend the rest of her time at the feet (or on the lap) of her owner. One thing to bear in mind however, is if you spoil your Jack Russell and don't give her plenty of exercise, she will get fat. This breed does not understand the concept of "full" and will literally keep eating "until they pop".
Myth #2: Jack Russell Terriers are Vicious
JRTs are quite protective dogs and she will defend you if she believes you are in any danger. It is very rare for a JRT to bite humans without provocation, and you will usually find that she will chastise with a prolonged growl and no more. When around other dogs, JRT bitches especially can be quite nasty with other dogs, regardless of their size. It is therefore important that you are confident in your ability to control the dog. If you have trained her well and she has your respect, a simple leave command should avoid any potential dogfights.
Myth #3: Jack Russells "Yap" All the Time
Your Jack Russell will want to alert her pack (ie, you and your family) when she hears or sees something suspicious. If she is barking, then there is a good reason for it! If you make sure her mind is occupied either by paying her some attention or providing her with toys to play with, it will help avoid any "false alarms" caused by boredom.
Myth #4: Jack Russell Terriers Will Dig Up Your Garden
Oops - this one is actually true! JRTs were bred to chase other animals underground, and if they can hear something at the other side of the fence and the only thing stopping them getting to it is your bed of petunias, then it will be bye bye pretty flowers. The only way around this is to divide your garden into "safe" and "no-go" areas if possible. The joy of owning a JRT far outweighs the potential problems caused by a bit of digging.
So, we've covered the three biggest myths (and exposed the JRTs biggest flaw). What properties does the breed have that may make you say "that's the dog for me"?
Jack Russells are gentle, loving and loyal dogs. JRTs are quite strong willed to the point of being a little obstinate at times, but providing she knows her place within your pack, you will have minimal trouble with behaviour problems compared to other small breeds. They are not fussy eaters, so your food bills will be minimal and their overall health and disease resistance is good with life expectancy ranging from 9 to 14 years (My oldest JRT lived to 21, but his daughter - who was runt of the litter - only lived to 8)
Of course, Jack Russells will not suit everybody. All types of JRT shed regularly, so if you are prone to dander allergies or are not fond of the vacuum cleaner, they may not be the breed for you. Similarly, if you already have cats or small furry pets such as hamsters, then it is not a good idea to bring a JRT into the mix (it is, after all, their in-bred instinct to pursue and incapacitate such creatures for their master)
Hopefully, you will now be better informed about Jack Russell Terriers and be in a position to consider them on their merits when the time comes to bring a dog into your family.
Darren has over 25 years experience of owning Jack Russell Terriers and is a supporter of the UK's leading dog welfare charity, Dogs Trust. A section about Dogs Trust is published on his website, gibson5.co.uk
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