Jack Russell

Read our comprehensive guide to Jack Russells, including information on predisposed health issues, exercise needs, family friendliness, grooming, history, overview & temperament.

Dog
17 Oct 2023

History of Jack Russells 

Native to Southern England, the Jack Russell breed gets its name from the first man to breed them back in the 1800s. Originally created as a hunting dog, this breed is vigilant and alert and makes a great watchdog. Today the Jack Russell breed is adored universally as a house companion and loved for its characterful and lively nature.

 

What to expect when caring for your Jack Russell

Common Jack Russell Health Issues

What health issues do you have to look out for as a Jack Russell owner? The Jack Russell dog is prone to the following:

Deafness – Hearing issues are common with this breed. Not all Jack Russell dogs will experience deafness, but it is wise to have your pet checked regularly with a vet to detect hearing issues early.

Luxating Patella – This breed is prone to this condition, and it involves the kneecaps dislocating out of their normal position.

Lens Luxation – Terriers commonly experience this condition which happens as a result of the lens weakening and dislocating.

How Much Grooming Do Jack Russell Dogs Need?

Jack Russell dogs have a coarse coat and are known as a high-shedding breed. Usually, you can groom your dog by brushing their coat a couple of times per month but in shedding season, you will need to increase this to a couple of times per week. This breed of dog has a double-coat, and it is the undercoat that is very light and heavy shedding. Jack Russell dogs have unique grooming needs and require stripping seasonally.

How Much Exercise Do Jack Russell Dogs Need?

If you live a sedentary lifestyle, a Jack Russell dog is not the best match for you. Don’t be fooled by this dog’s petite stature, Jack Russell dogs are hyperactive and need a lot of exercise and owners will have to commit a lot of time to their pet’s exercise regimen. Off the lead walks present a lot of dangers due to the breed’s hunting past and they have a strong instinct to chase prey.

  1. Jack Russell Personality Traits

    What to expect from your Jack Russell

    Loyal and happy-go-lucky, the Jack Russell dog is a popular breed, loved for its fearless and feisty attitude. Generally good natured, this breed of dog is courageous and has a stubborn streak a mile long. Owners are attracted to this breed because they are small and conveniently sized, but they do require training and a firm owner who is willing to discipline them. Left to its own devices, a mischievous Jack Russell will burrow in the garden if not mentally and physically stimulated. They are scent dogs and can jump up to five times their height. This is a reflection of their hunting background but as a result, this dog can be quite a handful and isn’t well suited to a novice owner.

  2. Are Jack Russell Dogs Family Friendly?

    How will they behave around my family?

    Jack Russell dogs are a small and versatile breed, but do they adapt well to a family setting? This breed is a great companion dog but may not be well-suited to households with children as they have a strong prey drive and shouldn’t be left unsupervised with little ones.

Key Facts Summary
Size:
12-15 inches
Weight:
6kg-8kg
Temperament:
Alert and Active
Lifespan
13-15 Years
Average Cost:
£612-£765

Jack Russell FAQs:

How Much Should a Jack Russell Weigh?

Knowing the correct weight range for a Jack Russell dog can help you ensure your dog doesn’t become overweight. Females tend to weigh less than males but as long as your pet weighs below 7.7kg, they are in the correct weight range.

How Much Does a Jack Russell Cost?

So how much can you expect a Jack Russell to cost? If you get a Jack Russell from a reputable breeder, you can expect to pay between £612 and £765. It is always advisable to use a recommended breeder so you have access to your pet’s medical history.

How Long Does a Jack Russell Live?

This is a healthy and hardy breed, the average age of a Jack Russell falls between 13 and 15 years.

Jack Russell dogs have a long lifespan and are generally healthy, but they are prone to a number of breed-related health issues. Having pet insurance can help to protect you against those unexpected vet bills. You can find out more about your cover options benefits with Asda Money Dog Insurance here.

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