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United Kingdom•terrier
Jack Russell Terrier
popularGood with Kids
Bold, lively, inquisitive terrier with strong hunting drive. Highly intelligent but independent-minded. Loves to wander, dig, and explore.
Weight4-7 kg9-15.5 lbs
Height25-38 cm10-15"
Lifespan13-16 yrs
Overview
Personality and care at a glance
BoldLivelyActiveCuriousIntelligent
Height
25-38 cm10-15"
Weight
4-7 kg9-15.5 lbs
Lifespan
13-16 yrs
Breed Traits
Size
Small - Size category based on typical adult weight
Energy Level
Athlete - requires intense daily exercise and jobs to do
Trainability
Independent thinker - requires patience and creativity
Grooming
Minimal grooming - occasional brushing
Barking
Frequent barker
Attachment Style
How much this breed typically wants to be near their people versus enjoying time on their own.
IndependentHighly Dependent
Balanced companionship
Size Comparison
🧍
Human~6ft / 183cm🐕
Jack25-38 cm10-15"Compatibility
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Things to Consider
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Exercise
Activity requirements for Jack Russell Terrier
extreme energy90-180 min/day
The Jack Russell Terrier was bred for work and needs intensive daily exercise. They thrive with a job to do and can become destructive without adequate physical and mental outlets.
1-2 hours daily of vigorous physical and mental activity
Recommended Activities
Moderate intensity
Advanced Training
Complex training routines for mental and physical challenge.
30-45 min
High intensity
Extended Exercise Sessions
Long runs, hikes, or bike rides for serious endurance work.
60-90 min
High intensity
Working Tasks
Herding, tracking, or other breed-specific work they were designed for.
Varies
High intensity
Competitive dog Sports
Agility, trials, or other competitive activities.
45-60 min
High intensity
Multiple Daily Sessions
Split exercise into 2-3 sessions throughout the day.
30-45 min each
Keep in Mind
- Inadequate exercise can lead to destructive behavior
- Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise
- This breed is not suited for sedentary lifestyles
Grooming
Coat care and maintenance for Jack Russell Terrier
Low Maintenancefur coat
Jack Russell Terriers require minimal grooming maintenance. Occasional brushing and basic hygiene care will keep them looking their best.
Weekly Brushing
A quick brush once a week removes loose hair and distributes natural oils for a healthy coat.
Weekly
Occasional Bathing
Bathe only when dirty or smelly - typically every 2-3 months. Over-bathing can strip natural oils.
Every 2-3 months
Nail Trimming
Keep nails trimmed to prevent discomfort and clicking on floors. If you hear clicking, they're too long.
Every 2-4 weeks
Dental Care
Brush teeth regularly or provide dental chews to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.
2-3 times per week
Training
Training approach for Jack Russell Terrier
Independent Thinker
The Jack Russell Terrier thinks for itself and may question why they should follow commands. Training requires creativity and understanding their motivation.
Best Approach
Understand that independence isn't disobedience - it's how they're wired. Find what motivates them (often not just treats) and make training feel like their idea.
Training Tips
Essential
Find Their Motivation
Discover what truly motivates them - it might be play, specific treats, or simply their own curiosity.
Essential
Keep It Interesting
Vary your training approaches and keep sessions unpredictable to maintain their interest.
Essential
Build Relationship First
A strong bond makes them more willing to cooperate. Focus on relationship before commands.
Recommended
Respect Their Nature
Don't expect robot-like obedience. Appreciate their unique personality while establishing boundaries.
Common Challenges
- May ignore commands they find pointless
- Can be selectively obedient
- May need 'what's in it for me' motivation
- Recall can be challenging
Nutrition
Feeding guidelines for Jack Russell Terrier
Small Breed2-3 meals$13-32/month
Small breeds have higher metabolisms than larger dogs and benefit from multiple meals per day with appropriately sized portions.
Feeding Tips
Careful Portion Control
Small breeds are prone to obesity. Measure food carefully and adjust based on activity level.
Small Breed Formula
Choose foods formulated for small breeds with appropriate kibble size and nutrient density.
Watch Treat Calories
Treats add up quickly for small dogs. Keep treats to 10% or less of daily calories.
Always Fresh Water
Ensure constant access to clean, fresh water. Small dogs can dehydrate quickly.
Health
Common health conditions to watch for in Jack Russell Terrier
1
High Risk
3
Common Issues
Understanding breed-specific health risks helps you provide better preventive care. Regular vet checkups and health screenings can catch many issues early.
High Risk Conditions
Common Issues
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian about your pet's specific health needs.
Ownership costs
Estimated expenses for Jack Russell Terrier
Monthly costs
Food
$13-32
Insurance
$30-69
Supplies
$13-26
Monthly total
$56-127
Annual costs
Veterinary care
$384-648/yr
Parasite prevention
$288/yr
Annual total
$672-936/yr
Estimates based on 2024-2025 research, adjusted for Jack Russell Terrier's size. Actual costs vary by location and provider.
Regional insights
Local factors affecting pet ownership costs in United States
- •Pet industry expenditure reached $152B in 2024, projected $157B for 2025
- •66% of households own pets (86.9 million homes)
- •Pet CPI continues to outpace general inflation
What's not included
- •Initial adoption/purchase fees
- •One-time equipment purchases (beds, bowls, leashes)
- •Emergency veterinary surgeries
- •Boarding/daycare services
Sources
2 references for Jack Russell Terrier
American Kennel Club Breed Information
Registry·American Kennel Club
Canine Health Information Center - Jack Russell Terrier
Health·OFA-CHIC
Information sourced from breed registries, veterinary organizations, and peer-reviewed research