History

Jack Russells were first bred in the Devonshire area of England in the early 1800's by a man called Mr. John Russell. He wanted to develop a terrier breed for fox hunting, a dog that was brave and fearless, would lead from the front and have the stamina for the chase. The Jack Russell started life as a fox terrier, and is not a pure breed as it was the combination of other dogs to create a new working terrier. The breeding program was continued after Mr John Russell died in 1883 as the breed was becoming ever more popular. It is testament to Mr. Russell and what an amazing breed he created that the jack Russell has been preserved and is so highly valued not just across the country but across the world. Shortly after Mr. John Russell died, another breed of "Jack Russell" was created by the secretary of the Parson Jack Russell Terrier club, he needed a breed for badger digging, one with the same characteristics of John Russell's, he decided to cross the parson with the bull terrier to produce shorter legs and a braver character. It is the descendants of these breeds that are now known as the Jack Russell terrier. There are three other types of Jacks known as "Russell Terriers", "shortie Jacks", or "Puddin' Dogs" these all come from the short legged working Russell terriers that have been mixed with others to create more family friendly breeds.

Personality and temperament

First and foremost the Jack Russell has been bred as a working dog and as a hunter, they are fearless, incredibly strong willed, determined and have a tremendous energy level. Jacks are also one of the most intelligent breeds of not just terriers but all dog breeds, they are very playful and full of enthusiasm and will always be more than happy to play, even if they are exhausted. However Jacks do not tolerate any kind of physical abuse, whether it's from an adult, child or another dog, this makes the Jack unique as it has such a strong sense of personal boundaries. Children must be taught how to play with and treat the dog, and must learn to respect the terrier. Loyalty is one of the Jack's most endearing qualities; he/she will go to any lengths to protect its home and family, often placing itself in front of a family member if they are in danger making the Jack not only fearless but tremendously brave as well. It is this fearlessness and bravery that gives this little dog such a big character, both charming and egotistical at times.

They are born leaders and the term "napoleon complex" or," little man syndrome", is often mentioned in reference to the terrier. In their minds they believe they are unstoppable, bigger and better than everyone else, they do not realise how small they are and can sometimes get themselves in to trouble.

As they are born leaders they can sometimes show aggression towards other dogs, especially those of the same sex, this is not because they hate all other dogs, on the contrary they are in fact a very sociable breed, happy to play and interact with other dogs, just as long as they know who is in charge. It is part of their genetics that makes them believe they are number one. And this is a characteristic that you will have to accept, this is who Jack Russell's are and part of what makes them so special.

Terrier Training

Because of the Jack Russell's personality and being a "born leader" he/she will ultimately want to be number one in the house, this is why the correct terrier training is so important. You must make sure they know you are in charge and the "pack leader" You should respect your jacks intelligence and use it in their terrier training, try to create a game that will mentally stimulate them, you must also be strict and rigorous with your training, do not reward one day and not the next day this will only confuse your terrier. And, although they are only small do not be fooled into thinking they do not need much exercise, these dogs thrive on outdoor activities, games and exercise, remember these are a working breed. If you do not get rid of that excess energy you will start to have all sorts of problems like chewing or constant barking, jacks a notoriously bad when neglected or badly trained, they will be a real handful. If you are a first time dog owner and you are interested in getting a jack Russell make sure you do your research first and really consider whether or not you really have the time, energy and space to dedicate to this breed of terrier, if you are in a position to look after and train a jack properly you will have not just a lifelong friend and a loyal servant, but a great pet that will bring your hours of fun, happy memories and companionship.