Grooming
A Jack Russell Terrier’s grooming doesn’t require heavy lifting, in part thanks to their relatively fuss-free coat and their small size. And their shedding is also on the low side, compared with other breeds. As with many terrier types, rather than using a brush, a stripping comb is recommended. Try this tool every six to eight weeks for removing any dead hair from the top coat.
Bathing once a month is sufficient as Jacks tend to stay pretty clean. But if yours has been digging underground and getting dirty, they may need a bath a bit more often. Bath time is a great time to clip their nails. (You’ll know it’s time for a nail trim when you can hear them tapping on hard surfaces.)
Daily teeth brushing from puppyhood is ideal. Remember, even if it seems like a struggle, regular dental care is important for fighting plaque and preventing dental disease. Be sure to spring for a professional teeth cleaning by your vet once a year.
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Training
Take advantage of your Jack Russell Terrier’s intelligence by starting to train them early and often. A Jack’s traits include a deep love of chasing and digging—but your training goals shouldn’t curb these natural tendencies; instead, redirect them toward positive outlets.
In truth, these behaviors are healthy, rewarding and enriching for a Jack. So, the best approach is to ensure your pup has an appropriate outlet, so they won’t destroy your lawn or dig up your tulip bulbs. One idea to try is to designate a sandbox for your pet, so they have a place where digging is allowed and encouraged. (It’s a win-win!)
Future pet parents of this breed will be glad to learn the Jack Russell Terrier’s temperament is very trainable. This dog is highly motivated and eager to have fun, so stick with positive reinforcement (yup, training treats are fine!) as you work with your pup.
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Diet
A Jack Russell Terrier should do well on a high-quality commercial dog food. Look on the package for a statement that says it meets nutritional standards set forth by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). (This organization sets the standard for complete and balanced pet food.) When choosing dog chow, always shop according to your dog’s age and pick a food that fits their life stage, whether you have a puppy, an adult or a senior dog. Talk to your veterinarian about the many options, as they are in the best position to help you pick the right food and develop a suitable feeding chart for your dog, based on your pet’s individual needs.
If you fancy yourself an accomplished chef and hope to prepare your dog’s meals at home, always run the menu by your vet to be sure it includes the right mix of nutrients for this high-energy, on-the-go breed.
With all that energy and training, it’s safe to say you’ll be giving your Jack a lot of treats. But those treat calories count! If you notice your dog plumping up, your vet can recommend a plan to help your Jack lose weight and still get all nutrition they need.
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Exercise
Lace up your running shoes! Raising a Jack Russell Terrier means a solid commitment to vigorous exercise, so you should plan to walk your pet at least a few times a day totaling an hour. A healthy Jack would even appreciate more walking, if you can swing it.
Hiking and running are also excellent physical activities for your Jack Russell, as is a romp in a fenced-in yard where your pup can roam safely. And don’t forget that playtime is part of exercise, too, so consider a variety of toys that will give your pup lots of opportunities for enrichment and fun. These playthings help to combat boredom, so keep your Jack Russell occupied with fun toys of all kinds, such as ones that squeak, bounce at odd angles, hold a yummy snack or light up when they roll.
If you’re looking for other options to help meet your Jack’s need for lots of exercise, try dog sports. They excel at obedience, agility, flyball and rally, among others. These sports are a great way not only to meet their exercise needs but they’re a great way to strengthen the bond you have with your pup.
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Environment
The Jack Russell Terrier’s qualities make this dog a solid pick for families with kids as long as everyone loves to move and both children and pup have been taught to interact each other. Remember, though, that the Jack is a very bold dog in a small-pup package, which means that, like the Pomeranian, they may act extra feisty around bigger dogs. As mentioned, a cat-free abode is best as this animal tends to chase all things feline.
An experienced pet parent is recommended for a Jack Russell Terrier puppy, as are homes with access to fenced space for running (again, because of the chase factor). Rural living is the ideal environment, especially if there’s an enclosed area for racing and playing. Even though they’re small, living in an apartment may be difficult for this lively breed unless the person is extremely active, and the neighbors won’t mind all the barking.
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