Frequently Asked Questions
If you are not familiar with this breed and its special needs, it is very important that you do your homework before deciding if a Jack Russell is right for you and your lifestyle. In this section, I’ll try to answer a few basic questions to clear up some common misconceptions about the breed and provide you with some particulars about the various activities available to you and your terrier.
For more in depth research on the breed, we recommend the very educational Jack Russell Terrier Club of America (JRTCA) web site. On the JRTCA Web site you’ll find specific Breed Standard requirements, Registration/Recording information, Trial Schedules, the Breeder’s Code of Ethics, Rescue Network information, a Q&A Forum for advice, and other fun stories, pictures, and video clips to acquaint you with the unique requirements and characteristics of the Jack Russell Terrier.
There are also several good breed-specific books available on the Jack Russell Terrier. The Jack Russell Terrier: An Owner's Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet and The Jack Russell Terrier: Courageous Companion. Both are by Catherine Romaine Brown and can be purchased at the bookstore on the JRTCA Web site.
Can my spayed/neutered terrier be JRTCA registered and participate in club events?
Altered terriers are Recorded, rather than Registered with the JRTCA, with records maintained on the dog similar to the registry. Recorded terriers are eligible to earn JRTCA Natural Hunting Certificates and are welcome to participate in the various performance events offered at JRTCA-sanctioned trials, including: Obedience, Agility, Racing, Go-to-Ground, and Lure Coursing. Many sanctioned trials offer special conformation classes for spayed and neutered terriers but these terriers are not eligible to compete in the regular conformation classes, which are traditionally designed as a showcase for breeding stock.
I adore the Jack Russell Terrier, but my lifestyle isn’t conducive to the stringent requirements of caring for a young puppy. Can you help?
A adult dog can be excellent company without the demands of an energetic young puppy. Another alternative is to check with Russell Rescue or The Russell Refuge where there are generally adults of various ages available for adoption.
Health & General Care
What do you recommend in terms of food and supplements?
I feed and recommend Dr. Tim's brand dog food. This premium all natural food contains the proper nutritional balance in a very concentrated form, and the dogs love it. Although it may cost more per bag than most supermarket brands, you will feed less per meal.
What about hereditary health issues?
The JRTCA maintains stringent guidelines for registration. Unlike other registries that register the entire litter at birth, the JRTCA registers individual terriers upon their own merit when they reach one year of age. Part of this registration process is a thorough vet exam to rule out certain hereditary defects. As a result, Jack Russells have fewer health problems than many other breeds.
Our club's breeders are generally very proactive regarding the health of this special breed. Terriers used for breeding are BAER tested to rule out heredity deafness, and are examined by a Certified Canine Ophthalmologist annually to rule out certain eye problems. Additionally, The Jack Russell Terrier Research Foundation, in conjunction with the University of Missouri, has been instrumental in helping to identify the genes responsible for several serious hereditary diseases in the last few years. This is huge (for many dog breeds), and makes it possible for responsible breeders to test their stock with a simple cheek swab kit, and never, ever have to take a chance on producing a dog with one of these maladies again. An online Health Registry has recently been set up where you can check for posted test results.
First veterinary visit? And how often do you recommend check-ups?
According to the terms of the Purchase Agreement, you should have your new puppy checked by your vet within 72hours. I will let you know at the time of purchase when the puppy’s next shots are due according to his health record at the time. We suggest that you do some research regarding vaccination schedules as the recommendations have changed over years. As far as frequency of regular check-ups, that is something you should discuss with your veterinarian.
At what age do you recommend spaying/neutering my pet puppy?
That is something you should discuss with your veterinarian, but most seem to suggest spaying/neutering at around six months of age. Some recent research suggests that waiting until the dog is fully mature and finished with it's skeletal growth can help prevent certain performance type injuries later in life.
What are the basic grooming requirements for Jack Russells and what supplies will I need?
A slicker brush, an undercoat rake or stripping comb/knife, and nail clippers or a grinder should do it. (Ashley Craig sells quality grooming equipment). Whether you own a smooth coat or a rough/broken coat, weekly brushing and biweekly nail trimming and ear cleaning will be your basic routine. During times of seasonal shedding (spring and fall), your terrier may require more frequent grooming.
What are the different grooming considerations for pet dogs vs show dogs or working dogs?
All terriers need to have the dead hair removed periodically through regular brushing/raking of the coat. This helps keep the coat thick and harsh, which is equally important for a working dog or a family pet as a correct coat provides protection from the elements.
Grooming for the show ring is a bit more involved. It requires periodic hand stripping and trimming of the coat to maintain a clean outline. Shaving with electric clippers is never recommended as it harms the proper texture of the coat, reducing its ability to repel dirt and water and protect the terrier from the elements.
To learn proper stripping techniques for both novice and experienced groomers alike, you can order the Grooming the Jack Russell Terrier for Companionship, Work, and Show video produced by Canine Training Systems.
Life with a JRT
Are Jack Russells good with children?
Jack Russells, like most other dogs, are good with children who treat them appropriately. Being typical terriers, they will not tolerate unintended mistreatment of children. Small children should never be left unattended with a Jack Russell provide the necessary supervision. They are very assertive and demanding and will take advantage of whomever will allow it. You and your children will be entertained and will bring you great joy.
How do Jack Russells get along with farm animals and other family pets?
Jack Russells can make excellent farm dogs if taught early not to annoy the livestock. Since Jack Russells naturally consider small rodents as prey, they are especially good at keeping the barn free of rats, mice, and other vermin. For this reason, they are commonly known to harass injure or kill other small pets so it can be risky to attempt to keep a terrier in a home along with pets such as gerbils, guinea pigs, hamsters, etc. There are many instances of Jack Russells and cats tolerating one another other but this does not guarantee the cats safety.
I’ve heard that Jack Russell puppies can be destructive. How can I puppy-proof, our house?
Jack Russells are no more destructive than any other breed in the puppy stage. If left unsupervised and not given the proper stimuli to keep them occupied, they will get into trouble. I do not recommend leaving a young puppy unattended at all during the first few weeks/months. You need to make sure that they don't get into anything that may hurt them. All puppies need to chew. It is important to provide plenty of appropriate chew toys and a watchful eye is necessary to make sure the puppy uses them rather than the legs of your antique dining room table for its chewing exercise!
It is important for the pup to learn what it can and cannot do, and what it can and cannot play with right from the start. This is one of the main reasons for not leaving a puppy unattended. Realistically, a puppy can't be expected to differentiate between its toys and a child's toys if they are all on the ground.
What kinds of toys do Jack Russell puppies like the best? What kinds of toys can be unsafe?
Rope toys are usually a big hit. Puppies also like the soft toys made of fleece. Be careful of those with squeakers inside. Most Jack Russells can destroy a toy in a matter of minutes trying to get to the squeaker inside, which they may choke on. To meet your puppy’s teething requirements, chew hooves last a long time and many dogs love them. Bully Sticks are also a favorite of many. Tennis balls are a great way to teach retrieving skills and provides lots of exercise, never let the dog have one unattended. Constant chewing on the "fuzz" covering the ball will damage their teeth over time.
Will hunting with my terrier have any effect on his temperament as a loving pet?
If your terrier has a sweet loving temperament to begin with, hunting will not change that. If anything, I find that working together with my terriers strengthens the bond between us and furthers our understanding of each other. The instinct to work is very strong in these great little dogs and they enjoy nothing better than a good day out with their favorite person in the world. if you have any interest in pursuing this aspect of the terrier do your homework and be prepared.
Earthwork
I’m interested in working my terrier; what do I need to know to get started doing earthwork?
The desire to enter an earth or rock den in search of quarry is innate in most Jack Russells. Everything about this terrier is designed with earthwork in mind. It never ceases to amaze me how they are seemingly born knowing exactly what to do when the situation presents itself!
However, if you’re inexperienced in the field, there is much to learn and it’s best to get started with an experienced person before trying to go out on your own. First and foremost, your dog depends on you for its safety. There is a proper way to introduce your dog to live game, dangers to know how to avoid, and various contingencies to plan for that a knowledgeable person in the field can advise you on to make earthwork a fun and safe activity for both you and your terrier.
A complete listing of JRTCA-sanctioned Working Judges is provided in each issue of True Grit, the club's bi-monthly magazine sent to all members. Feel free to give one of these experienced earthworkers a call. They are happy to volunteer their time in an effort to help get novice terriers and their owners started in the field.
Terrier Trials
I think I may want to show my Jack Russell; can you tell me what to expect at Terrier Trials?
Jack Russell Terrier Club of America (JRTCA) Terrier Trials are fun-filled action-packed events. Competition is friendly and made for the dogs and all in attendance to enjoy. Trials are not only a chance to compete with your Jack Russell, but they also provide opportunities to meet other Jack Russell enthusiasts.
There is something for every member and the family at the trials. For breeders, the Conformation Classes provide a valuable opportunity to see breeding stock from around the country, as well as a way to measure the progress in their own breeding programs. The various performance divisions such as Go-to-Ground, Racing, and Agility are always well filled, and provide a wonderful physical and mental outlet for terrier and owner alike. Many trials offer a special Youth Division—a great way to encourage youngsters, who are after all, the future for our breed. You can find more information about these trials, including a schedule and details about the various events on the JRTCA Web site.
What kind of preparation is required in getting ready for trials?
You must be a member of the JRTCA to compete at sanctioned trials. If you’re not already a member, you can join the day of the trial. For any of the events, your terrier will need to be comfortable on a leash and be well socialized so he won’t feel overwhelmed by the large number of terriers and people found at trials. Most terriers absolutely love the atmosphere of excitement that is the norm at trials.
In the Conformation Classes, your terrier will need to know how to trot in a straight line and stand still on the end of the lead so the judge can evaluate him. A treat in your hand or pocket works well to keep him looking alert and interested. During the individual examination, the judge will need to check your terrier’s bite, span the chest, and confirm the presence of two testicles in the case of a male. Prior to showing your terrier, make sure it is accepting of this type of handling by a stranger. I handle my puppies in this manor several times per day, every day, and recruit any visitors we may have to do the same. By the time they are old enough to show, they are comfortable approaching a stranger and stay relaxed while being handled.
If your goal is to compete in Obedience or Agility, it’s a good idea to enroll in a class. These classes are readily available in most areas. Agility especially is becoming a very popular sport.
Many areas of the country have local affiliate clubs that offer a schedule of Jack Russell “Fun Days” throughout the year. These Fun Days frequently offer schooling in Racing and Go-to-Ground and are a great way to learn the ropes. They are usually designed with teaching and practice in mind rather than competition. Even if you have never been to a trial, don’t hesitate to attend and plan on participating with your Jack Russell. You’ll find that most terrier people are happy to help.
What sort of equipment do you need for dog trialing?
One of the nice things about going to trials is that you really don’t need to invest in lots of expensive equipment to participate. You should have a crate for your terrier. The days can sometimes be quite long, and they will need a place to rest comfortably. You’ll need to bring dog food and water from home. For really hot days, invest in a crate fan for your terrier. Don’t forget the baggies for clean up after your pet!
For Conformation Classes you will need a collar and lead that do not interfere with the judge’s ability to evaluate your terrier properly. Invest in a thin chain link martingale style collar or thin leather lead. These collars “disappear” into the terriers fur, presenting a natural appearance and allowing the neck to be seen. There are some thin leather buckle style collars that look nice. Avoid big thick nylon collars, as they interrupt the clean line of the terrier’s neck.
A muzzle is required for Racing, and the plastic basket or closed-ended cloth type is strongly recommended. For this event I recommend a collar that can easily be snapped on and off when the terrier is in an excited state. You will remove the collar as you place your terrier into the starting box and replace it as the “catchers” return him to you at the finish line. This type of collar is also useful when competing in Go-to-Ground. It is recommended that collars be removed before releasing the terrier into the tunnel.
Do you recommend using a crate for house training a puppy and why?
A crate provides your puppy with a place of their own where they feel safe. The crate is a wonderful training aid and is an invaluable tool when used properly during the house-training process. It is instinctive for a puppy not to soil his nest. He will eat and sleep in the crate, so therefore will make every attempt to keep it clean. It is important that the crate is large enough for the puppy to comfortably lie In. If too large, the puppy may sleep at one end and eliminate at the other. If you purchase a crate that will fit your terrier as an adult, you may want to consider using an exercise pen or a small area 15 to 30 square foot area is adequate for most puppies. Once they chose a specific place to eliminate use puppy pads or newspaper which makes for easier cleanup. A suggested schedule for crate training is included in your Puppy Packet that you can modify to work with your personal schedule. When introduced the right way, the crate protects both your house and the puppy during the times you can’t attend to them. The crate is the best way to travel with your dog both as a puppy and an adult.
Are Jack Russells easily trained?
Most Jack Russells love to learn, are eager to please, and are treat-motivated, which makes for easy training. Whether your goal is for your dog to work in the field, perform in the show ring, or simply to have good house manners, training provides the mental and physical stimulation this breed so requires.
As a general rule, I would say that Jack Russells do best with a positive reinforcement when training. By using positive reinforcement methods, training becomes a shared activity for you and your dog, establishing a mutual respect between the two of you.
Using the right approach, there isn’t anything this extremely intelligent breed can’t learn. I highly recommend enrolling in a basic puppy obedience class. These classes are fun and are useful for helping your dog learn to behave in the face of distractions, such as other dogs. They provide an excellent opportunity to learn the socialization skills so crucial in a puppy’s young life. To find classes offered in your area, check out The Association of Pet Dog Trainers.
Can you give me some basic training tips to help ensure my JRT is easy to live with?
Jack Russells are an intelligent breed, you must establish right from the start that you are the Alpha leader, they’re liable to end up training you before you train them. It’s important to establish house rules from the beginning and be firm in sticking to them. If the dog won’t be allowed on the furniture as an adult, then don’t let him on the furniture as a puppy. If you don’t want your dog begging at the dinner table, then don’t toss them food while you’re eating. They are extremely Intelligent and will test their limits throughout their life. Can your dog be trusted to have the run of the house without supervision? Crate them while you are out so you don’t give them the opportunity to give you grief. Jack Russells are wonderful house dogs when you provide them with plenty of exercise, strong leadership, and consistent discipline. Jack Russell Terriers are always a work in progress!!