Jack Russell Terrier
Talk about smart, Jack Russell Terriers have their very own magazine, "True Grit"! Owners would not be surprised if their dogs could read it. Recently there was a video clip on television involving a dog who wanted to get at some treats that were in a desk drawer. The dog, not being able to open the drawer from the front, went under the desk, and pushed the drawer open from behind.. Maybe that is why the cerebral "Frasier" on TV has a Jack Russell ("Eddie"). Jack Russell Terrier owners are pretty smart themselves (they have to be to stay one step ahead of their doggies). The Jack Russell Terrier Club of America successfully prevented their breed being from recognized by the AKC (which would have resulted in the animals being ruined for the sake of "dog shows") by allowing the AKC to register a "Parson Russell Terrier". The Jack Russells are now free to remain the healthy, genius, hyperactive pets that their owners treasure. If you are thinking of getting one, be prepared for them to challenge you mentally and physically. Keep in mind that they were bred to hunt foxes, so don't even think of having a ferret or a cat in the same house. While they will not necessarily kill these other pets, they will be truly baffled why you don't after they have gone to the trouble to corner them. They are also not very tolerant of clumsy petting from children, nor will they enjoy being cooped up in an apartment. Having said that, if you can provide an outlet for the boundless energy of this dog and don't mind them training you, they can be a joy to have. Because they have been bred for temperament rather than appearance, there is some variety in size, ranging from small to very small. They have folded ears and are mostly white, with tan or brown markings.
|
| "Dean" (male) courtesy of Happy Hills Animal Foundation Status: verified, Age: 4 yrs Size: small Weight: 18 lbs
|
"Meghan" (female) courtesy of Mt Pleasant Animal Shelter Status: verified, Age: 6 yrs Size: small Weight: unknown
|
"Brandie" (female) courtesy of Happy Hills Animal Foundation Status: verified, Age: 2 yrs Size: small Weight: 11 lbs
|
"Natalie" (female) courtesy of Happy Hills Animal Foundation Status: verified, Age: 8 yrs Size: very small Weight: 8 lbs
|
