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.

Jack Russells who are not trained on a consistent basis, or are not exercised regularly, may occasionally exhibit aggressive or unmanageable behaviour, including excessive barking, escaping from the yard, or digging in unwanted places inside and outside the house. In America, several Jack Russell rescue networks have to work constantly to find temporary and permanent homes for JRTs whose owners could not meet these requirements for keeping JRTs as house pets. Prospective Jack Russell Terrier owners are advised to do their homework.

Most JRTs easily mingle with children, though they do not tolerate even unintentional abuse. Most are outgoing, and very friendly towards other dogs, but a good number show same-sex aggression issues. Some JRT’s exhibit a “Napoleon Complex” regarding larger canines that can get them into dangerous situations. Their fearlessness can scare off a larger animal, but their apparent unawareness of their small size can lead to a lopsided fight if not kept in check.

A well-cared-for Jack Russell can live for over 15 years. One main health concern is cataracts. They are often seen in dogs bred by backyard breeders or puppy mills who have not CERF tested the breeding stock they use. Other concerns are Lens luxation, congenital deafness (responsible breeders will have their dogs BAER tested), Patellar luxation, cerebellar ataxia, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, and von Willebrand’s disease.