*Is a Jack Russell Terrier the Right Dog for You?
The points made here are the worst case scenario of owning a Jack Russell Terrier. If you are a prospective Jack Russell Terrier owner, be sure you understand the unique needs and character of this feisty little working terrier BEFORE you purchase or adopt!..Many people underestimate life with a Jack Russell Terrier!!
Jack Russell's.....
...are first and foremost hunting dogs. Digging, barking, aggressive nature, ability to follow ascent (excellent hunting traits) are often interpreted as bad habits that cause people to give them up.
...are bred to go to ground. If they do not have an outlet for their natural instincts, the will invent new ones, such as; guardian of the world/possessions/family, chasing cars, hunting birds, or endlessly digging in the soil.
...are a big dog in a little body. They think they are 150 lbs. and are fearless, often challenging other dogs three times their size. Same-sex aggression and aggression towards other breeds is will documented. No more than two Jack Russells, of opposite sex, ever should be left together unattended.
...are NOT a non-shedding breed. All coats shed, with smooth coats the most.
...require firm, consistent discipline. They are extremely intelligent. More often than not, they train their owners, before the owner knows it, which can lead to displays of aggressive behavior. Their assertive nature must be understood and handled properly.
...are commonly known to harass,injure or kill other small pets, such as cats, birds, rabbits, mice, etc. Raising a puppy with a cat does not guarantee the cat's life-long safety.
...remain active well into their 15 year-plus life span. Untrained, unsupervised dogs rarely meet their life expectancy.
...require at least basic obedience training. Even well trained dogs will be tempted to chase something, or disappear into a hole. Off-lead is always a dangerous situation for a Jack Russell unless in a safe environment with experience JR owners.
...absolutely need a securely fenced yard. Many JR's have been killed by cars when darting into the road. They can dig under, climb or jump over fences; some can climb trees and any chain link fencing.
...can be very destructive if left unattended and unemployed. If you've only seen perfect, well behaved JR's, they are the ones that were lucky enough to be exercised, well socialized and trained.
...are country dogs. Your lifestyle must be adjusted to meet their needs; they must have jobs to perform----an outlet for their considerable energy and intelligence.
...are NOT recommend as apartment or condo dogs. They need a great deal of exercise and outdoor activity and are usually too loud for such high-density living. Unless your schedule permits many hours at home and a lot of outdoor activity this is not the dog for you.
...will NOT TOLERATE even unintended mistreatment from a child. They will not put up with typical child handling such as pulling ears, tails etc. Jack Russells are not recommended for households with children under 6 unless you are previously experienced with this feisty little bundle of energy
...are NOT as they are portrayed in the movies or TV. Those dogs are professionally trained and are very obedient only for very short periods of time. They have their needs met by the trainer and perform their jobs accordingly.
...Require long-term commitment to obedience, activity exercise and entertainment.... their unique character, intelligence and high energy level can frustrate you, will undoubtedly entertain you, and can bring you great joy (when they're happy) or great grief (when they're not). Jack Russell Terriers are always a work in progress
*taken from the 'Jack Russell Terrier Club of America' 'Bad Dog Talk' brochure