The Jack Russell breed is
one of the most famous for their temperament. They are often shown on commercials,
television, or movies bouncing off the walls. But they are also well respected
as a friendly, family dog. What truth is there to the stereotypes of the Jack
Russell, and how will the temperament of this dog work in your family?
A
Happy Little Dog
Jack Russells are, for the most part, a happy breed. They
are inclined to get into mischief, but they remain happy and contented, as long
as their needs are being met by the people in their lives. But these needs are
quite large, and many new owners are not aware are the large amount of work necessary
to own a Jack Russell, which leads to many being abandoned by frustrated owners.
A
High Energy Dog
First and foremost, Jack Russells were bred to hunt foxes.
Because of this, they are extremely high-energy dogs, and as such they are born
with an extremely high energy level. They were also bred to track their quarry
underground, and are excellent diggers, so they will be caught digging in your
back yard, tracking dirt into your home on a frequent basis.
Jack Russells
will find ways to expend their inherent energy. If their owners do not provide
them with enough exercise, they will be found barking incessantly for now apparent
reason. The Jack Russell needs to be part of a highly active family.
A
Territorial Little Dog
Jack Russells do not know they are little dogs,
and they do not like dogs of other breeds. Do not be surprised if your Jack Russell
picks fights with the neighborhood dogs, no matter how big they are. Jack Russells
also tend to be quite protective of their owners, or even one particular member
of a family. This makes them good watchdogs, but makes it difficult to introduce
a new person into the family.
The Fearless Canine
Jack Russells
have very little fear of common hazards. They will readily dart into speeding
traffic when tracking a squirrel or rabbit, unhampered by the cars whizzing by.
Those who own these little superheroes need to provide consistent training and
discipline to show them exactly where the boundaries are, and thus keep them safe.
A Highly Intelligent Breed
Part of the reason that Jack Russells
are so well loved is for their intelligence. Couple this with a stubborn streak,
and many Jack Russell owners find that instead of training their dog, their dog
is training them! Jack Russell Terriers will need owners that match their level
of smarts, as well as stubbornness, if they are going to be trained.
Intolerant
Of Mistreatment
Jack Russell Terriers have no concept of normal behavior
of children. They will not tolerate the types of things that small children do
to small dogs, such has having their ears pulled, toys stolen, and even food taken.
Families with small children, such as those younger than six, should have significant
experience with the breed before introducing a Jack Russell into the home. The
dog will strike out at a child to protect what he feels is his personal space.
The
physical appearance of the Jack Russell and the way the dogs are portrayed
by the media often make unsuspecting owners think that they are calm, easily trained
dogs. This assertion could not be farther from the truth. With the proper training,
a Jack Russell can become a much-loved member of the family, but before purchasing
one, you need to understand the unique temperament of this little dog.
Attention: To discover how
YOU can have the Happiest, Healthiest and Best Behaved Jack Russell,
get a copy of this Jack Russell Guide
NOW!
