Jack Russell Terrier facts for kids
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| Common nicknames | JRT Jack |
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| Origin | England | |||||||||||||||||||
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| Domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) | ||||||||||||||||||||
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small dog from the terrier family. These dogs were first used for fox hunting in England. They are mostly white, but can have different types of fur: smooth, rough, or a mix called 'broken-coated'. They can also have different colored markings.
People often confuse the Jack Russell with other similar breeds. These include the Parson Russell terrier and the Russell terrier. The Russell terrier is a bit shorter and stockier. Sometimes, the name "Jack Russell" is used for other small white terriers too.
Jack Russells are very energetic dogs. They need a lot of exercise and things to keep their minds busy. Luckily, they are usually quite healthy dogs. This breed got its name from Reverend John Russell. He bred these dogs in the early 1800s. The Jack Russell has changed a bit over the years. This is because of how they were used and what different dog clubs decided.
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What Does a Jack Russell Terrier Look Like?
Jack Russell terriers still look much like they did 200 years ago. This is because they were bred for work, not just for looks. They are strong, tough, and determined dogs. They usually stand between 25 and 38 centimeters (10-15 inches) tall at the shoulder. They weigh about 6 to 8 kilograms (14-18 pounds).
Their body should be balanced with their height. This gives them a compact and neat look. Most Jack Russells are white, with more than half of their body being white. They can have black, brown, or tan markings. Their fur can be smooth, rough, or a mix of both, called a broken coat. A broken-coated dog might have longer hair on its tail or face.
A Jack Russell should always look alert and ready. Since they are working terriers, their chest size is very important. Their chest must not be too big. This allows them to fit into and work inside animal burrows. The red fox was the main animal they hunted. So, a working Jack Russell had to be small enough to follow a fox into its den.
Jack Russell Terrier Personality
Jack Russells are first and foremost working terriers. They were originally bred to chase foxes out of their dens during hunts. These dogs are usually very smart, athletic, brave, and like to bark. If they don't get enough exercise or things to do, they can become moody or destructive. They get bored easily and will find their own fun if left alone.
Their high energy makes them great for dog sports. These include flyball or agility. It's a good idea for owners to take them to obedience classes. Jack Russells can be stubborn sometimes. They might also be aggressive towards other animals or people if they are not socialized well.
Even though they are small, these dogs are not the best choice for apartment living. This is unless the owner can give them lots of exercise and mental challenges. They have a huge amount of energy for their size. This can sometimes lead to trouble with bigger animals. They might seem like they never get tired. They will still be energetic even after their owner is ready to rest. Jack Russells that are socialized well are friendly with children. However, they will not put up with rough handling, even if it's accidental.
This breed is known for being healthy and living a long time. Jack Russells can live from 13 to 16 years if they are cared for properly.
Images for kids
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A drawing of Trump, the dog purchased by the Rev. John Russell.
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Carlisle Tack, a Fox terrier born in 1884, who was owned by John Russell.
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An example of a broken coated Jack Russell terrier
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An example of a rough-coated Jack Russell terrier
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The Parson Russell terrier (pictured) shares a common ancestry with the Jack Russell terrier.
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His Master's Voice (1898) by Francis Barraud
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A Jackabee is a planned mating between a Jack Russell terrier and a Beagle
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A Jack Russell terrier wearing a dog harness
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A working Jack Russell terrier exits a den pipe
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Jack Russell Terriers playing with a ball
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A Jack Russell Terrier dog taken as a pet
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A Jack Russell Terrier dog in Belgrade
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A smooth-coated Jack Russell terrier puppy
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A rough-coated Jack Russell terrier puppy
See also
In Spanish: Jack Russell terrier para niños
