Exercising your dog

You’ll need to be high energy to keep up with your Jack Russell Terrier - they need plenty of vigorous exercise every single day. They thrive on being walked at least a few times a day, for around an hour in total.

Always keep them on a lead because of that high prey drive. A securely fenced garden or dog park where they can run around is also their idea of a good time. They’re great swimmers too.

Daily playtime counts towards their exercise time. A bored Jack Russell Terrier can spell trouble so it’s important to provide plenty of toys to ward off boredom, from ones that squeak and bounce to ones that hold tasty treats.

Training your Jack Russell Terrier

Training a Jack Russell Terrier isn’t about reigning in their natural instincts, like chasing and digging, but redirecting them towards more positive outlets. Jacks benefit from early and regular training which provides a good channel for their energy and intelligence.

To help them learn your prized veggie patch isn’t for digging, create their own sandbox that they’re allowed to dig in. Securely fence it and use different soil to what’s in the rest of the garden so they learn what’s acceptable to dig in and what isn’t.

Keen to learn new things and for mental and physical stimulation, Jack Russell Terriers are easy to train. Positive reinforcement works well, especially training treats.

Your dog's health

By recognising health problems in Jack Russell Terriers early you can seek advice and treatment from a veterinarian.

Reduce the risk of health problems by purchasing a puppy from a responsible breeder. Always inspect breeding facilities and breeding dogs, and never buy from a distant online seller.

Health Issues to watch out for:

Patellar luxation

Legg-Calves-Perthes Disease

Compulsive Behaviours

Eye Issues

Grooming your dog

Grooming is a breeze with Jack Russell Terriers. Their coat doesn’t need much special attention and they won’t shed that much either. You might find that a deshedding tool is better than a brush, at untangling the short (and possibly wiry) fur and removing dead hair. Because their coat is so short, a groom with a brush or deshedding tool every six to eight weeks should be fine.

Their short, low-shedding coat also doesn’t need a regular bath (unless they’ve been turning your rose garden into a mud kitchen). Aim for once a month or as needed. Bath time is a good opportunity to clean those floppy ears and clip those nails.