Jack Russell Temperament
The Jack Russell Terrier is a working terrier. They were breed to be excellent diggers and be very vocal. Why? These terriers would chase after prey and usually follow them underground (digging) and when barking, the hunters would be able to locate the dog and prey easier.
Not only Jack Russell Terrier is not only a high energy, protective and fearless but also very smart.
Jack Russell terriers are not for everyone. They are anything but lap dogs and require a lot of attention. They also need lots of exercise, not just physically but mentally too.
What happens when a JRT is not properly exercised and not trained properly? Many things including hard to manage behavior, digging in unwanted areas, escaping from the yard, and what seems like never ending barking. Most people just give up with this breed and abandon them (ever wondered why there are quite a few jack russell shelters?) after so long, so before even thinking about buying one, make sure you’ll be able to give them the exercise they need.
Have a smaller child? Jack Russell Terriers usually get along find with small children as long as they are taught not to strike or tease them. Unlike other breeds, a jack russell terrier won’t put up with constant abuse such as tail and ear pulling from a child. They usually get along fine with other pets but same-sex aggression can be a problem, especially in males. They are put in dangerous situations with other larger dogs, why? The JRT think they are bigger then they really are and are fearless so they won’t back down from other dogs, no matter how big or small.
A jack russell terrier should never be left alone with small children and especially cats or other small pets.. it’s pretty obvious why, being they are hunting dogs and all.
