Ava Williams
Shoulder height: 25 – 30 cm
Weight: 5 – 6 kg
Age: 13 – 14 years
Color: predominantly white with black, brown, or tan markings
Use: hunting dog, companion dog, the family dog
The Jack Russell Terrier is a short-legged (approx. 30 cm) terrier that does not differ significantly in appearance and nature from the somewhat calmer, longer-legged Parson Russell Terrier. Originally bred and used as a hunting dog, today it is a popular companion dog. With sufficient exercise and consistent training, the very active, friendly Jack Russell is also suitable for novice dogs who live in a city.
Origin and history
This dog breed is named after John (Jack) Russell (1795 to 1883) – an English pastor and passionate hunter. It wanted to breed a special breed of Fox Terriers. Two variants developed that were essentially similar, differing primarily in size and proportions. The larger, more square-built dog is known as the ” Parson Russell Terrier “, and the smaller, slightly longer proportioned dog is the ” Jack Russell Terrier “.
Appearance
The Jack Russell Terrier is one of the short-legged terriers, its ideal size is given as 25 to 30 cm. He is predominantly white with black, brown, or tan markings, or any combination of these colors. Its fur is smooth, rough, or bristly. The V-shaped ears are folded down. The tail may hang down when at rest, but should be carried upright when in motion. When used as a hunting dog, tail docking is permitted in Germany according to the Animal Welfare Act.
Nature
The Jack Russell Terrier is first and foremost a hunting dog. It is a lively, alert, active terrier with an intelligent expression. It is known to be fearless but friendly and with calm confidence.
Due to its size and its friendly, child-loving nature, the Jack Russell Terrier is also suitable for active people in a city and as a family companion dog. However, one should not underestimate his urge to move. It loves long walks and is also enthusiastic about dog sports. Its passion for hunting, its need for protection, and its strong will are pronounced. It is occasionally intolerable to strange dogs, likes to bark, and doesn’t like to subordinate himself too much. With consistent leadership and appropriate physical exertion, he is also an adaptable companion for a novice dog.
Its coat is easy to care for, whether short-haired or wire-haired – the short-haired Jack Russell Terrier sheds a lot, and the wire hair should be trimmed 2 to 3 times a year.