Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is synonymous with one word . . . VITALITY! He’s the equivalent of Pee Wee Herman on Red Bull. For certain, if science were to somehow corral the incredible energy this remarkable small dog possesses there would be little need for solar or windmill power as an alternative source.
Admired for both his courage and tenacity, this little fellow is perhaps the best pound for pound watch dog in the canine world. If it hadn’t already been named after an English parson that loved to hunt it’s totally conceivable that we might refer to this breed today as the “Rocky Marciano” Terrier, in deference to one of the best pound for pound fighters in the ring the world has ever seen.
An instant downloadable ebook on training your Jack Russell Terrier.
Origin
The origin of the Jack Russell, unlike many other breeds, is easy to trace. It was developed in Devonshire, England in the early 1800’s. Around that time, the Reverend John (Jack) Russell, a sporting parson who loved to hunt fox, spotted a white terrier accompanying the local milkman on his daily rounds. Completely intrigued by her appearance, Russell purchased the dog and she became the foundation for his breed. His intent was to develop a dog with the speed, stamina, and agility to chase out a fox that had gone underground, and one that could also keep up with the horses and hounds included on the hunts.
The Jack Russell name has been used to describe a wide variety of terriers over the years, even resulting in legal battles. There remain basically two main varieties: The original “Parson Jack Russell” and its smaller, shorter legged cousin, “Jack Russell.” The AKC recognizes only the Parson variety for show.
Appearance
This breed is small, sturdy, and tough as nails. The Parson, as noted, has longer legs, but both varieties have bodies longer than they are tall with incredible speed and balance. It has distinctive v-shaped ears that fold forward, along with a coat that can be either smooth or rough. Regardless of texture, most Jack Russell’s are white, or white with black, tan, or lemon markings. The non white colors are always well defined and usually confined to the head and tail.
The feet are round and cat-like, with thick pads, and the high-set tail is docked so that the tip is level with the skull.
Males are 10-15 inches and 15-18 lbs. Females are 9-14 inches and 14-17 lbs.
Temperament
Both varieties of Jack Russell are intelligent, energetic, and literally “full of life” animals that can make playful, affectionate pets. They will settle well into most families provided they are given firm obedience training early on. Training must start early because these dogs are easily distracted by surrounding activities and scents. Their hunting instincts are so strong that they will chase just about anything that moves. This exuberant little guy, by his very nature, will keep your property free of many small interlopers, including rodents and snakes.
Alert, confident, and utterly fearless, Jack Russell’s make excellent watch dogs. However, these admirable qualities can sometimes get them into scraps with other dogs. They can also, at times, be protective of their property – toys, food bowls, etc.
Grooming
Jack Russell’s need minimal grooming, although they should be brushed weekly using a firm bristle brush. Bathe a Jack Russell only when necessary. Over bathing will increase this breed’s tendency to shed. It is probably not the best pet choice for anyone with allergies or otherwise looking for a light-shedding dog. As with most breeds, check the ears and teeth regularly and keep the nails trimmed.
Exercise
The “Jack” is a breed that needs vigorous play and exercise daily. They were bred as runners and indeed they are in their element with space to run and play. As such, they are not ideally suited to apartment life. Due to their strong hunting instincts a leash is an absolute must when walking the Jack Russell and a secured area should be used when exercising or playing outdoors off the leash.
Summary
An intriguing and athletic breed, the Jack Russell is not for everyone. A prospective owner should first understand the true nature of this dog. It cannot be overstated that the Jack Russell will make an exceptional companion with proper obedience training. They will enjoy children and even other dogs if exposed to them early on. This is a dog with incredible energy and endurance. And in the proper environment it certainly has the ability to endure itself to any owner for many energetic years.
For more information on the Jack Russell, please read Jack Russell Terrier 
Also here is an instant downloadable ebook on training your Jack Russell Terrier.