Jack Russell Terrier

Ch Corn Row Thyme

In the 19th century, the Rev. John Russell of Devonshire, England, an avid foxhunter, developed a small dog to help him hunt fox. Following his death, other breeds were often crossbred with some of his dogs to increase their salability as being from “Jack Russell’s Terriers”. Eventually these dogs developed into the Jack Russell Terrier we know today. This small but brave dog excelled at hunting fox. He was also used to hunt other small animals such as raccoons.

In England, Ireland, and Australia, the longer-legged square dog is known as the Parson Russell Terrier while the lower, longer dog is called the Jack Russell Terrier. In the United States the name Jack Russell Terrier has been universally applied to the long-legged dogs. However, effective April 1, 2003, the AKC changed the name of the Jack Russell Terrier to the Parson Russell Terrier as requested by the Jack Russell Terrier Association of America (the AKC parent club), which was changed to the Parson Russell Terrier Association of America.

The UKC recognizes the Jack Russell Terrier as the long-legged dogs and Russell Terrier was the name given to the short-legged dogs on January 1, 2001.

The Jack Russell Terrier stands between 10 and 15 inches tall at the shoulder. He may have a smooth, broken, or rough coat that is white or white with black and/or tan markings. His small size allows him to follow his prey into its den to flush it out.

As a true terrier, the Jack Russell Terrier is bold, agile, alert, and lively. Possessing a 'big dog personality in the body of a small dog', the fearless Jack Russell is not the dog to back down, even when faced by other larger breeds. A loyal and affectionate dog, he makes a good companion with early obedience training and socialization. With early socialization, he will tolerate other dogs well. The Jack Russell enjoys his role at the center of the family!

It should be emphasized that the Jack Russell Terrier is used to working. On the hunt, he is able to keep up with the horses, and therefore has a high energy level. He requires daily outdoor exercise. He is very intelligent and will invent his own entertainment if bored.

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