Jack Russell terriers

Behavior:
Most terrier breeds are remarkably similar. The same words are used over and over -- quick to bark, quick to chase, lively, bossy, feisty, scrappy, clever, independent, stubborn, persistent, impulsive, intense.Jack Russell Terriers are incredibly active go-getters. They MUST have regular opportunities to vent their energy and to use their busy minds to do interesting things. Otherwise they will become rambunctious and bored -- which they usually express by barking and destructive chewing. Bored Jack Russells can make a shambles of your house and yard. Many Jack Russell Terriers are dominant or aggressive toward other dogs. Two Jack Russells should not be left alone together -- one may kill the other over possession of a toy. Most Jack Russells also have incredibly strong instincts to chase and seize small fleeing creatures. They are capable of seriously injuring or killing smaller animals, including cats and pet rabbits.Terriers are often too quick to sound the alarm at every new sight and sound.Terriers can be stubborn and dominant (they want to be the boss) and will make you prove that you can make them do things. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say.

History:
Jack Russell's have been around for about 200 years and originated in southern England. The official name of the Jack Russell Terrier is the Parson Russell Terrier. Their official name came from Reverend John Russell, a famous British huntsman who was renowned for his use of terriers for his passion of fox hunting. The Reverend received the nickname "The Sporting Parson". That is how his terriers that he bred earned the name Parson Russell's. "Jack Russell" was a term that was used and misused after the Parson's passing. At this time, basically all hunting and working terriers became known as Jack Russells, and held little similarity to the original terriers bread by the Parson.

Size
Jack Russell's stand 13 - 15 inches high to the shoulders. They weigh about 13 - 17 pounds.

Life span:
The average life expectancy of Jack Russell dogs is 13 - 15 years or longer.

Training:
Jack Russell dogs are easy to train because they are fast learners. That being said, they will also attempt to use their cleverness to try and do things his way. You need to be firm in your training, and don't let his charming demeanor fool you.Of all the different Jack Russell training techniques you could teach your dog, obedience training is the most important. You're in for plenty of trouble if you don't take command and allow your Jack Russell to walk all over you.You need to show your Jack Russell who is boss from the very moment you get him. The longer you wait to train your dog, the more difficult he will be to control. For instance, it isn't fair to let a puppy get away with things like tugging on the leash, and then reprimand him for it when he gets older. He won't understand what he's doing wrong.Jack Russell training is about showing your dog where he stands in your family "pack". You can help teach him you are the master by Walking through doors before him and Eating first before giving him his food and
Being firm and consistent with your training and discipline. Jacks are balls of energy, which can help make Jack Russell training more effective and fun for both of you. How? Think about it, you need to make your Jack want to do what you want him to do. Just like a child, you shouldn't expect an enthusiastic response unless it is something fun and interesting to do. If you can't keep your pup's attention, you are only wasting your time and his.
Obedience training requires plenty of your time and energy, but it's the only way you will show your Jack you mean business as you enjoy spending time with him. Plus, the more time you spend with your dog, the more you will pick up on his habits and deter bad ones from growing.Don't forget that a Jack Russell puppy's attention span last only seconds. Therefore, you need to make sure in the beginning that training isn't only consistent but also shorter. Have 5 - 10 minute training sessions with your dog, and then play with him. As your Jack becomes older, his attention span will improve, and you will be able to have longer training sessions of up to 30 minutes.

Disciping:
When you discipline your Jack, be firm but gentle. Let him know you won't tolerate his misbehavior, and continue to teach him until he gets it right. It's in the Jack's nature to try your patients and outwit you. Stand your ground, and the Jack will know who's boss. Note: Never hit your dog when disciplining!