Deborah Britt-Hay

Jack Russell Terriers are energetic and adorable dogs with a few special requirements when it comes to raising them. For example, your pet mouse or snake will be regarded as prey by a Jack Russell, so don’t get a terrier if you already have a rodent or rodent-eater. All puppies have special needs, and Jack Russells are no exception, so consult a pre-puppy shopping list before you bring your dog home.

All dogs are social by nature, as proven by the formation of packs. When you separate your puppy from his littermates, you and your family effectively become his pack. When you have to be gone, whether for work or play, your puppy is left without his playmates. You can make this time easier for your puppy by doing the following: Exercising the dog right before you leave the houseLeaving special chew toys for your puppy to use during your absenceProviding a quiet, peaceful area with food, water, and a soft bed for your puppy to enjoy while you're awayKeeping your departures and returns low-key and unemotionalNever punishing your Jack Russell Terrier upon your return for any behaviors during your absenceSometimes, regardless of your best efforts to provide a peaceful oasis for your puppy, he will still view your absence with some trepidation.

Most Jack Russell Terriers (JRTs) make wonderful pets, but not all make wonderful show dogs. It's much easier to find a dog of pet quality than it is to find a dog of breeding or show quality. Don't allow a breeder to dissuade you from a dog you're drawn to in favor of a more expensive show-quality dog unless you're seriously planning to breed or show your dog.

In spite of the efforts of responsible Jack Russell breeders to rid the breed of all genetic problems, some disorders still pop up from time to time. This article shows you discusses some of the more common problems found in the breed. Please understand, however, that this is not an all-inclusive list, and it shouldn't be used as a guide to diagnosis.

Depending on your Jack Russell Terrier's outside activities, you should only have to bathe him every month or less. Of course, if your terrier is out rolling in the dirt on a daily basis, you may have to bathe him a bit more frequently. Short, more frequent baths are better than long, infrequent ones. Get your dog used to baths when he's still a puppy.

Before you bring your Jack Russell Terrier puppy home, you need to go on a pre-puppy shopping spree. Following is a list of items you need when you bring your puppy home. As your puppy gets older, you can add more items to the list. A harness (not a collar) suitable to your puppy’s size Toys such as balls or