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      The Jack Russell Terrier derives its name from the Parson John Russell, of Devonshire, England,  "the hunting Parson", 1795 - 1883.  The Parson had a passion for hunting, both on foot with Otter hounds and on horseback for fox.   To successfully pursue his quarry, he required another tool, the earth dog.  The type that suited him was any terrier with a body small enough to quickly negotiate the earths of his district, bold enough to encounter quarry below ground, and vocal enough to send it fleeing the earth. Russell became known for producing a strain of terrier, a particular type, one that would later bear his name.  It is a 10 - 15" white bodied terrier with colored markings. Over the years the Jack Russell Terrier has shown great versatility in hunting many types of quarry in all types of  terrain.

      The success of the Jack Russell in the hunt field protected him from the whims of the show ring for many years. Today only a small percentage of terriers are used in the hunt field.  Most are exhibited in agility, obedience, racing, and conformation.  However, the primary goal of working terrier people worldwide is to remind breeders and buyers that "form follows function" and to preserve the working body and instincts of the Jack Russell. In America, the Jack Russell is used successfully for vermin control, hunting rats, opossum, armadillo, fox, woodchuck, raccoon, mink, stoats, basically anything that lives in the earth.  Because the dog's heart at some time takes him into the earth, it is the responsibility of the owner to be aware of the dangers encountered if he allows his or her pet to run free.

      The Jack Russell Terrier is a free spirit, independent with extreme high drive and energy.  He is intelligent, loyal and fearless. Consequently, the terrier must be protected from his own instincts to range wide, go into the earth, and from the attitude that he is equal in stature and strength to any beast that challenges him.  This can be the terrier's downfall. The Jack Russell is an inter-active, working, family dog that assumes a role in the family as his new pack. Because he is cute, clever, & endearing, he can easily manipulate his owners to do his bidding.   He often "trains" the smaller children and other family members to stand behind him in the pecking order.  A Jack Russell requires supervision and discipline.  He is not the dog for everyone.

      The Jack Russell is inquisitive and busy.  He barks less, runs less and is less prone to neurotic idiosyncrasies if he has a secure yard and lots of exercise.  He may be a successful apartment dweller IF the owner is dedicated to proper exercise and management of dog.  A bright, energetic terrier left alone for hours will find something to do, be it chasing a squirrel, barking at the neighbor's cat, or chewing great-grandmother Em's mahogany table.  Proper management means making sure the terrier is not provided temptation which may get him in trouble. He is a natural escape artist, digging like a badger and climbing like a cat.  Caring for a Jack Russell puppy requires no less attention than caring for a 3 year old child. Terriers will become more complacent with time.  However, if your expectations are for a quiet, sedate companion, choose a Labrador.

      A common human solution to terrier boredom is to get another playmate.  Keep in mind the Jack Russell is first and foremost a hunting dog.  While he may appear to get along with the pet bird while you are in the house, it is only a ruse to please the owner.  Whether accidental or intentional, they may kill smaller pets.  Another dog can provide a playmate and comfort when the owner is not home.  The average owner should never house more than two Jack Russell's together unsupervised.  Like small children, they tend to choose sides and pick on the weakest member.  An unsupervised terrier fight may end in death.

      Because terriers are active and curious, they can mix well with older children, often giving the child a companion while teaching him or her responsibility for another life.  Again, management is the key to a happy household.  Children must be supervised and taught to respect the dog.  They must not be permitted to maul the dog, steal his toys, or take his food; the only defense a dog has is to snarl or bite.  Supervising the interaction of the child and dog can prevent this undesirable, but natural canine behavior.

      We suggest that you seek out reputable breeders and spend time with as many terriers as possible before purchasing a Jack Russell. Understand what he is and decide if he will fit into your lifestyle.  The average life of a small terrier is 12 to 15 years. The purchase of a puppy should be a life commitment to the dog, accepting the bumps and warts along with the wet kisses.