FCI 3/2/345 · Country of origin United Kingdom
Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier was developed in the early 19th century in Devonshire, England, by Reverend John Russell, who bred exclusively white terriers for fox hunting in tight burrows. Originally valued for its fearless nature, endurance, and ability to follow prey underground, today’s Jack Russell is a small but tireless and quick-witted dog. It requires ample exercise, consistent training, and mental stimulation to stay balanced. Loyal and lively with its family, it nonetheless retains a strong prey drive.
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The breed originates in England and was developed in Australia, which is its country of development. It descends from the 19th-century hunting terriers of the Reverend John Russell, bred to work underground on fox. The FCI recognised it in 2000.
Lively, alert and active, with a keen expression. Bold and fearless, friendly but quietly confident. This is a working terrier in a small body — the hunting drive has to be reckoned with.
Depending on the coat (smooth, rough or broken) a weekly brush is enough; the rough coat needs stripping. Exercise and mental work matter more — the breed is tireless and takes boredom badly.
DNA tests cover primary lens luxation (PLL) and spinocerebellar ataxia; patellar luxation and deafness in predominantly white dogs are watched. Otherwise the breed is tough and long-lived.
Manages a flat if it gets the exercise — the size of this dog says nothing about its demands. Reservations with children for the temperament. Reservations for a first-time owner: it is clever, and it knows how to get its way.
A good working terrier with the ability to go to ground; an excellent companion dog.
Companion; earthwork and dog sports.
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