Are Jack Russells right for you? |
Home | |
Jack Russells have become extremely popular pets over the last few decades. With their bright eyes, intelligence, and cuteness, it's easy to understand why. But the fact is, Jack Russell Terriers (JRTs) are not ideal pets for everyone. If you're considering a Jack Russell for a pet, there are a few things you need to know and questions you need to ask yourself first. The Breeding History of the JRT The JRT is a hunting dog first and foremost. It was not bred to be carried around in a handbag. JRTs are a type of fox-hunting terrier developed in Britain in the 1800s. They were bred to be highly energetic as they had to keep up with hunting hounds. They also had to be ferocious enough to face a fox in its hole. This resulted in a very hyper little dog with a big personality. The hunting style of the JRT required independence and intelligence, as it was up to them to take the initiative and pin down the fox. They did not hunt by responding to complicated calls from the hunter. This means that while JRTs have the intelligence to learn easily, they are also very independent and will not listen to someone who does not firmly establish themselves as a pack leader. The JRT does make an excellent pet, but those hunting roots need to be respected. Jack Russells and Children JRTs are not a great pet for families with children under the age of five years old. There are two main reasons for this. The first is the fact that JRTs tend to be very boisterous and jumpy, which can be frightening and dangerous for a young child. The other is that JRTs can sometimes be prone to aggression over territory and possessions, like food and toys. Young children can't understand this - they try to take a toy from the dog and can't read the warning signs that the dog is becoming aggressive. The result can be tragic for the child, and the dog. Your House and Lifestyle JRTs are notorious diggers and they are very good at escaping from even a tightly sealed property. Spaying and neutering can help to reduce this problem, as many Jack Russell breakouts are the result of a desire to look for a mate. Make sure you don't have any holes in fences, ensure your property is completely fenced, and maybe place chicken wire underground at the foot of your fences to prevent the dog digging underneath. You may consider an underground electric boundary fence if you can afford it. Also, JRTs need plenty of time and attention from their owners. They should not be left alone for long periods of time. If you work long hours, consider another breed or look into a doggy daycare or pet-sitter arrangement for the times you can't be with your pet. Exercise Requirements As mentioned earlier, JRTs were bred to be high-energy dogs. They were out working in the fields all day, not cooped up in an apartment. It is possible to keep a Jack Russell Terrier in an apartment, but in this case you will need to take extra time to make sure the dog gets proper exercise. This is a dog for someone with an active lifestyle. Jack Russells need, at the very minimum, half an hour of vigorous exercise every day. An hour is better - two hours is great. Exercise should not just be restricted to walking but also fetching, chasing games, and free running off the leash. Your JRT will not get tired before you do, so you'll have to let him run around on his own. But before you can do that, you need to train him to come back when you call him. Training Requirements JRTs have some bad natural habits like jumping up and chewing. These can be easily dealt with using the right methods and a bit of patience - unfortunately, many people who buy JRTs know nothing about training methods and patience, which is part of the reason so many JRTs end up homeless at rescue centres and shelters every year, awaiting a new loving home - or a lethal injection. If you think after reading this that a JRT is the dog for you, one of these Jack Russell rescue centres are a good place to start looking. So, Is a Jack Russell Right For You? Only buy a JRT if: You have no children or children over five years old. You have a very active lifestyle. You understand JRTs are natural hunters, not toy or companion dogs. You have the time and patience to train your Jack Russell properly. Got all those sorted? Go ahead and get a JRT! Remember to check out your local rescue centres before you go buying a new puppy. |
||
| . |