Are you thinking about buying a Jack Russell Terrier? I have owned one for about seven years since she was about four-years-old. I bought her from an animal shelter where she broke my heart, crying for an owner to take her home. I named her "Treasure," and she is a very loving, adorable part of my family. However, if you are thinking about getting one, here are ten facts you need to know about this breed of dog beforehand.

1. Jack Russell Terriers are possibly the most hyperactive and aggressive dogs in the canine kingdom. They are bred to be hunters and can dig a one-foot hole into the ground within a minute.

2. Their bodies "vibrate" when they get excited. This "nervous energy" is their way of communicating that it really wants to go out. When I take mine out on walks, she usually wants to run, so I hold my retractable leash firmly. As a matter of fact, I often use the entire 20-foot retractable leash's length when we walk. I'd need a bike just to keep pace with her by my side.

3. They will chase smaller animals, except for smaller dogs.

4. Don't get a Jack Russell unless you own a lot of land. I used to live in a wooded neighborhood where there was a lot of space between houses. Treasure could run and play as much as she wanted. However, I now live in a retirement community where all dogs must walk with leashes. Also, don't get a JR if you live in a condo community, where there's usually not a lot of space either.

5. I walk Treasure at least three times per day. Each trip takes 20-30 minutes, but it's great exercise.

6. Always use a strong, retractable leash.

7. If you have to take it out on a leash, be aware of your surroundings. If you walk it right beside a road, keep its leash's distance, at most, two-feet from the handle; they pay absolutely no attention to cars coming and going. So, it's best to find a fairly wide grassy area to sniff and do its business.

8. Treasure will usually go crazy when she sees a UPS, FedEx, mail truck, or any landscape vehicle that tows large lawn maintenance equipment.

9. Jack Russells don't make friends easily with other dogs. They tend to become aggressive toward smaller dogs of the same sex. However, Treasure will get along much better with larger ones that are male or female. My general rule of thumb for Treasure meeting other dogs is if the other dog is staring her down, I won't let her get close.

10. Buy a Jack Russell when it's a puppy. You will have an opportunity to train it so that it will be a bit more manageable as it grows older. This would also be a good time to let it socialize with other dogs.

If you want to own a dog that is energetic with hunter instincts and you own a lot of land without a lot of distractions, Jack Russell Terriers would be a good choice; They are not the best lap dogs, but they can be warm, gentle and loving. Like a proud Marine soldier who loves his country, Jack Russell Terriers are the most trusting of man's best friend.