Jack  Russell  Terrier

 < Back  To  Gallery  Three

Breed  Character Summary

The breed has a sturdy and robust appearance and an outgoing character; breed standards emphasize that the Jack Russell must have a "keen expression". Jack Russell Terriers are predominantly white (must be more than 51%) with black, tan, or tricolour markings, particularly on the face and at the base of the tail. They have small V-shaped ears that usually fold sharply forwards

Russell terriers were first bred by the Reverend Mr. John Russell, a parson and hunting enthusiast born in 1795. In his last year of university at Oxford he bought a small white and tan terrier bitch called Trump from the milk man. Trump was purchased based upon appearance alone. (Burns, 2005) She was the basis for a breeding program to develop a terrier with high stamina for the hunt as well as the courage and formation to chase out foxes that had gone to ground, but without the aggressiveness that would result in their harming the fox, which was considered extremely unsporting.

Most JRTs easily mingle with children, though they do not tolerate even unintentional abuse. Most are outgoing, and very friendly towards other dogs

Jack Russell Terriers are considered an intelligent, high-energy breed. Despite their high-energy, they are often considered one of the smartest dog breeds in the world, thus their common appearance in television and movies. Their compact size, friendly and inquisitive nature, and intelligence make them popular as pets. Built for speed and strength, they will always be ready to play. However, they require consistent training and a good deal of attention and exercise to maintain their temperament and to occupy their minds.

What's  in  a  Name

In this case as with the Doberman the breed takes the name from its creator. Jack being an English nick name for John. The Reverend's vocation providing the obvious connection for the recently Kennel Club recognised "Parson Jack Russell Terrier". The breed as a type at least is tremendously popular throughout the world and in the states is often crossed with the American "Rat Terrier" to produce the "Jack Rat Terrier".

Commonly used nick names

J.R.T.s, Jackies and Russells

The three most common misspellings of the breed name are;

Jack Rusell, Jack Russel and  Jack Rustle  

 < Back  To  Gallery  Three