Tips for owning a Jack Russell Terrier

Warning:  If you are thinking about buying a Jack Russell Terrier there are a few things you should know.

1. When people roll their eyes and say, “Oh, no” when you mention that you are thinking of getting a Jack Russell, believe that they know something you don’t know.


2. Under that puppy cuteness and loveability lies a creature that will give you unwavering loyalty and attention . (most of the time this would be a good thing, but let me give you an example. ) Me, very quietly reading the paper when Sadie jumped up on my lap. Sadie is pushing against me trying to vie for my attention. All she wants is attention, you say. Yes, of course she does, she’s a Jack Russell. She wants my attention 24/7. She wants to know where I am at all times, what I am doing, and how she can get all of my attention at any given moment.

3. If you can survive the first two years of having a Jack Russell you will be rewarded with an intelligent, strong willed, loving dog. But there will be times during the first few years when you wonder if it’s going to be you or the dog. Let me give you an example. Jack Russells like to chew.
and chew…..
and chew!

4. Jack Russell like to be dominant. They are called little Napoleons. They like to sit higher than you on the back of the couch and be assertive in their behavior. Let me give you an example:


5. If you are not around Jack Russells will resort to being pals with other animals or small children.



6.  Jack Russells love to be active. Plan on going for long walks and playing with you dog a lot.


7. jack Russells are very curious. They will sit and watch for hours to spy a squirrel.


 
8. Jack Russells love the water. It is prudent to put a life jacket on them because they will swim for hours as long as someone is in the water.



9. When you are gone, your dog will miss you, pine for you, and empty out your trash cans.
10.  Your dog will become part of you family and want to be around you all the time…even when you go to the bathroom. It is common for a Jack Russell to burrow under the covers in your bed at night. This lump is Sadie. She didn’t want to get up in the morning and Don made the bed anyway.
11. If you don’t think you need to crate a Jack Russell, you haven’t owned a Jack Russell.
12. Jack Russells can harm themselves. Let me give you an example. They will sneak away and chew anything…electric razors, your eyeglasses, tissues, any small thing that you thought was in the trash, and food of any kind. You will find that having a Jack Russell is like having a two year old in your house. You learn to get wastebaskets with lids, put away everything high up where she can’t reach, and keep an eye on her at all times. 13.  But no matter what a Jack Russell can give you love….with no strings attached. She can be there for you, cuddle you, and warm your heart. She is a wonderful companion and devoted friend. That is why people have Jack Russells. If it wasn’t for that the breed would have been eliminated a long time ago for being just too much trouble.