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Jack Russell Terrier Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Jack Russell Terrier so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank78
Reviews3
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Jack Russell Terrier dog profile picture
OriginEngland flagEngland
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Jack Russell Terrier known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
JackRussell Terrier
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Jack Russell Terrier? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred The Jack Russell is considered a purebred dog breed, but many mixes and hybrids have been created from this breed. We have compiled a list of Jack Russell Mixes.

Jack Russell Terrier Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Jack Russell Terrier? Learn how big the Jack Russell Terrier breed typically grows.
Small
Weight Statistics
How much does a Jack Russell Terrier weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Jack Russell Terrier breed.
11-18 pounds (5-8 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Jack Russell Terrier?
14.5 pounds (6.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Jack Russell Terrier? Jack Russell Terrier height:
8-15 inches (20-38 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Jack Russell Terrier?
11.5 inches (29 cm)

Jack Russell Terrier Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Jack Russell Terrier puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Jack Russell Terrier costs.
$700-$1000
If you choose to purchase the Jack Russell Terrier, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Jack Russell Terrier for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Jack Russell Terrier gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Jack Russell Terrier? How many Jack Russell Terrier are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Jack Russell Terrier is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Jack Russell Terrier Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Jack Russell Terrier? Discover the Jack Russell Terrier's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Very smart: Jack Russell Terrier is an excellent dog breed. You can teach them many tricks and commands. The limit is your creativity. They understand and memorize new commands in 5-15 repetitions. This breed obeys the first command 85% of the time or better.

The Jack Russell Terrier is one of the top breeds in the dog intelligence ranking.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Jack Russell Terrier? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's trainability and response to training methods.
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Jack Russell Terrier as a watchdog? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's alertness and guarding instincts.
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are good watchdogs. Their main job is to observe and they're consistent in their effort. Good vocal cords and a sense of hearing belong to them. Usually, they're territorial and protective about their property, so the Jack Russell Terrier dogs will alert you if they sense something different.
Territorial Protection
Is a Jack Russell Terrier protective of its territory? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's guarding instincts and behavior.
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are extremely protective guard dogs. This breed doesn't hesitate to protect its territory so the Jack Russell Terrier can be a good choice if you want an excellent guard dog. Keep calm and the Jack Russell Terrier will take care of unwanted people or animals.

Jack Russell Terrier Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Jack Russell Terrier have? Learn about characteristic Jack Russell Terrier temperament and behavior traits.
StubbornIndependentEnergeticAlertCourageousCheerful
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Jack Russell Terrier sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Jack Russell Terrier dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Jack Russell Terrier a good family dog?
High: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Jack need? Jack Russell Terrier social needs:
Jack Russell Terrier dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Jack Russell Terrier to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Jack Russell Terrier roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Jack Russell Terrier is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Jack Russell Terrier have high prey drive?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Jack Russell Terrier dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Jack Russell Terrier Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Jack Russell Terrier bark a lot? Learn about typical Jack Russell Terrier vocalization patterns and triggers.
A lot: Jack Russell Terrier is a particularly loud breed. They often enjoy barking and howling loudly. If you want a quiet dog, not the best choice.

The main triggers for barking are fear, attention, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking, and defense.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Jack Russell Terrier? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Jack Russell Terrier breed.
The Jack Russell Terrier is a highly playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Jack Russell Terrier live in an apartment? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's suitability for apartment living.
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Jack Russell Terrier breed. If you don't have a garden, think carefully about your decision, keeping Jack Russell Terrier indoors can cause a lot of problems.

Jack Russell Terrier Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Jack Russell Terrier to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's flexibility to new situations.
Jack Russell Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Jack Russell Terrier be left alone? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's tolerance to solitude.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Jack Russell Terrier Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Jack Russell Terrier biting potential? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Jack Russell Terrier has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Jack Russell Terrier mouthy? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's tendency to use mouth during play.
Jack Russell Terrier dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Jack Russell Terrier dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Jack Russell Terrier bite? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Jack Russell Terrier bite force: Weak. The Jack Russell Terrier bite force is considered weak when compared to other dog breeds. The bite force Jack Russell Terrier measurements usually fall below 200 PSI, making them one of the breeds with the weakest bite force. The bite force of a Jack Russell Terrier may be weak, but it's important to remember that any dog's bite can still be dangerous if not managed properly. Despite the bite force of Jack Russell Terrier being lower, it does not make them any less lovable or enjoyable as pets.

Jack Russell Terrier bite wounds might not be as severe, but it is still essential to be cautious and prevent any biting incidents.

They are usually not aggressive and very friendly towards children and other animals. To ensure a well-behaved dog, it's essential to learn how to train a Jack Russell Terrier puppy not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, a Jack Russell Terrier can be a wonderful addition to any family, providing love and companionship for years to come.

Jack Russell Terrier Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Jack Russell Terrier live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Jack Russell Terrier breed.
12-16 years
The average lifespan of Jack Russell Terrier: 14 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Jack Russell Terrier handle different weather? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's climate adaptability.
Prefers average to warm weather conditions
Different dogs have different preferences when it comes to weather conditions. However, in general, most dogs prefer average to warm weather conditions, as they typically find hot weather conditions to be uncomfortable and taxing.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Jack Russell Terrier? Discover typical conditions affecting the Jack Russell Terrier breed.
The Jack Russell Terrier is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Jack Russell Terrier need vet visits? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's veterinary care requirements.
Average
The Jack Russell Terrier should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Jack Russell Terrier breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Jack Russell Terrier breed? Most common health risks of Jack Russell Terrier:
Legg-perthes DiseasePatellar LuxationDeafnessGlaucomaLens Luxation

Jack Russell Terrier Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Jack Russell Terrier? Understand daily activity needs of the Jack Russell Terrier breed.
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Jack Russell Terrier need? How much exercise do Jack Russell Terrier dogs require per day?

Do Jack Russell Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises?

Jack Russell Terrier dogs need a lot of exercises. Long walks should be on a daily schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Jack Russell Terrier breed need?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs don't need too much sleep. They are energetic and desire to live active life. If you think naps are overrated, this breed can be the best choice for you.

Jack Russell Terrier Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Jack Russell Terrier prone to weight gain? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's obesity risks.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Jack Russell Terrier's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Jack Russell Terrier weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Jack Russell Terrier need daily? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's feeding requirements.
1/4 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Jack Russell Terrier Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Jack Russell Terrier hypoallergenic? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Jack Russell Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Jack Russell Terrier come in? Discover all possible Jack Russell Terrier color variations.
BlackTan White
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Jack Russell Terrier need? Learn about Jack Russell Terrier coat maintenance requirements.
Easy to groom: The Jack Russell Terrier doesn't require a lot of grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Jack Russell Terrier is a good choice if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Jack Russell Terrier drool a lot? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's drooling habits.
The Jack Russell Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Jack Russell Terrier could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Jack Russell Terrier.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Jack Russell Terrier smell bad? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Jack Russell Terrier has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Jack Russell Terrier have? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's fur characteristics.
Rough
Bathing Needs
How often does a Jack Russell Terrier need baths? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's bathing requirements.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Shedding Level
How much do Jack Russell Terrier dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Jack? Do Jack Russell Terrier dogs shed a lot?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are heavy shedders. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Be prepared for the daily vacuum cleaning. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type.

Jack Russell Terrier Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Jack Russell Terrier good with children? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's behavior around kids of different ages.
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Jack Russell Terrier get along with other pets? Discover the Jack Russell Terrier's compatibility with other animals.
Jack Russell Terrier dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Jack Russell Terrier temperament with other people:
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are average friendly towards strangers.
Cat Friendly
How well do Jack Russell Terrier dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Jack Russell Terrier breed live with a cat?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Jack Russell Terrier good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Jack Russell Terrier dogs get along with other dogs?
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Jack Russell Terrier can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Jack Russell Terrier breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Jack Russell Terrier breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Jack Russell Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Jack Russell Terrier dogs good office canines? Do Jack Russell Terrier dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Jack Russell Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Jack Russell Terrier dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Jack temperament with senior people? Are Jack Russell Terrier dogs good for elderly owners?
Jack Russell Terriers are commonly okay with elderly people.

Jack Russell Terrier As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Jack Russell Terrier be a service dog? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Jack Russell Terrier is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Jack Russell Terrier good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Jack Russell Terrier is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Jack Russell Terrier good at detection work? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Jack Russell Terrier is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Jack Russell Terrier do search and rescue? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Jack Russell Terrier is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Jack Russell Terrier good on boats? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's maritime capabilities.

Yes

Jack Russell Terrier breed usually likes being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, as a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Jack Russell Terrier pull carts? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Jack Russell Terrier is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Jack Russell Terrier used in military service? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Jack Russell Terrier Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Jack Russell Terrier usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
4-8 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Jack Russell Terrier pregnant? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Jack Russell Terrier: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Jack Russell Terrier have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Jack Russell Terrier Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Jack Russell Terrier in? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's AKC classification.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2012 as a Terrier breed.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Jack Russell Terrier in? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's international classification.
Recognized by FCI in the Terriers group, in the Small sized Terriers section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize a Jack Russell Terrier? Learn about the Jack Russell Terrier's official recognition.
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Australian National Kennel CouncilContinental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubNew Zealand Kennel ClubUnited Kennel ClubIrish Kennel ClubClub Espanol De TerriersJack Russell Terrier Club Of America

Jack Russell Terrier Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligence Rating: Very smart: Jack Russell Terrier is an excellent dog breed.
  • Grooming Requirements: Easy to groom: The Jack Russell Terrier doesn't require a lot of grooming.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Jack Russell Terrier is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Watchdog Rating: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are good watchdogs.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Jack Russell Terrier dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Dog Friendly: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Maritime Work Ability: Jack Russell Terrier breed usually likes being on a boat.

    Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

    Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages.

Cons
  • Allergy Friendliness: Jack Russell Terrier dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Apartment Adaptability: Not an apartment-friendly dog the Jack Russell Terrier breed.
  • Shedding Level: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are heavy shedders.
  • Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Jack Russell Terrier's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Mouthing Tendency: Jack Russell Terrier dogs have a higher than average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Jack Russell Terrier is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Cat Friendly: Jack Russell Terrier dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Jack Russell Terrier is not the best dog breed for office environment.

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Jack Russell Terrier Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Kermit

    Feb 15, 2025, 4:41:45 AM:

    People do not realize how strong this dog is it can be the most strong dog ever with a estimated bite force 250 stronger then a German Shepard Pitbull and Labrador retriever

  • HELLO CUTE!

    Nov 19, 2020, 8:45:37 PM:

    SUCH A CUTE DOG BREED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • Someone

    Nov 19, 2020, 8:44:34 PM:

    The cutest dog breed ever!