This terrier is a strong, active and agile purpose-bred, working breed dog; and is coupled with a great character/temperament. It has a medium length body that is very flexible and is matched with smart movement and a keen expression. This Jack Russell can aptly be described as a lively, active and alert terrier with an enthusiastic and intelligent appearance; and is considered bold, fearless, friendly with a quietly confident disposition.  

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The Jack Russell Terrier was originally bred by Reverend John (Jack) Russell, an avid fox hunter, during the mid-1800’s in England as a purpose-bred hunting terrier. In time however and across continents the Jack Russell Terrier has evolved into many versions of itself due to human intervention. The purest form of the originally bred Jack Russell Terrier can today be found in Australia and New Zealand and not in fact in the United Kingdom, however they are not far behind. 

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In South Africa however, due to heavy handed breed standard interference, the Jack Russell has become a much larger, bulkier and heavier terrier weighing in at about 8kgs instead of 6kgs at 25cm high; which is the breed standard of most registering bodies. These terriers are referred to by some, as the “Afrikaner” or “Boer” Terrier. They were intentionally bred to be sturdier and tougher versions of the original Jack Russell Terrier, able to hunt and exist in the South African bushveld and on the farms. Despite their bulkier appearance they are still avid hunters and “ratters”; and are often seen alongside their human and horse counterparts at equestrian events and venues due to their excellent rodent-hunting abilities and jovial nature. These terriers are a firm family favourite pet in many South African homes. 

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In addition to their incredible ability as natural hunters their intelligent, friendly, loyal, affectionate personalities make them ideal family pets too as they get on very well with humans of all sizes and most other canines. The Jack Russell Terrier referred to here is a healthy, multi-purpose, purpose-bred breed, which needs to be respected and preserved. This is a mammoth task of breeding better and better with each genetic combination and lesson learned in terms of both conformation and temperament by those that love the breed and consider themselves to be guardians of the Jack Russel Terrier breed.

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The Jack Russell can jump up to 5-6 times its height and over a meter wide; and are incredibly athletic; giving one no surprise of their never ending ability to turn anything and everything into an obstacle course – yes, even trees. Jack Russell Terriers love to swim and if one has a swimming pool it is important to teach them to swim.

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They are considered to be one of the fastest dog breeds in the world, (they need to be able to catch those critters), and additionally are thought to be one of the smartest dog breeds. They live an average of 13-16 years and are regarded to be one of the healthiest dog breeds too! Although considered to be one of the healthiest dog breeds, they may be prone to suffer from certain ailments and these include; skin allergies, ear infections, benign tumors, arthritis and hypothyroidism. Jack Russell Terriers love to dig and bark and so it is important to take this into consideration when considering bringing one into your home and property.

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Due to their intelligent and active natures Jack Russells require regular exercise, a firm hand when needed, and training from a young age to stimulate them and calm them when they become overexcited.  A brisk or fairly lengthy walk or swim or mental stimulation in terms of tricks and games will however have them snoozing on your bed or the couch for hours on end!

A Jack Russells Terrier or if you are daring enough – a small pack of Jack Russells –  make the best companions, work buddies and family members for all of these reasons and so many more. The Jack Russell Terrier’s cute but mischievous nature will have everyone in their new family and homes falling in love with them, and spending many joyous hours cuddling or getting active -  and always having much fun!