Dog breed · Terrier
Jack Russell Terrier
A small hunting terrier with enormous drive, best suited to active owners who enjoy training.
Small13–16 yearsEnglandNeeds more space
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Terrier
- Origin
- England
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 6–8 kg (13–17 lb)
- Height
- 25–38 cm
- Lifespan
- 13–16 years
- Coat
- Smooth, broken or rough
- Temperament
- FearlessEnergeticCleverPersistent
History
Bred by Reverend John Russell in Devon during the 1800s to bolt foxes from earth.
Appearance
Mostly white with tan or black markings, wiry and athletic.
Exercise and activity
An hour or more daily plus digging boxes, flirt poles and scent games.
Care and grooming
Simple coat care; rough coats benefit from occasional hand-stripping.
Health considerations
- Patellar luxation
- Lens luxation
- Deafness
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Ataxia in some lines
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Jack Russell Terrier
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: An hour or more daily plus digging boxes, flirt poles and scent games. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Patellar luxation, Lens luxation, Deafness, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, Ataxia in some lines), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- Dogs Trust — dog care, behaviour and welfare advice