Jack Russells - Big Dogs?

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While standing only 10" - 15" tall, the Jack Russell Terrier is a breed whose history and tenacious nature make it rival some of its larger cousins. Both energetic and loyal, these sturdy animals have a history of both bravery and devotion, lending proof to the statement; big things come in small packages. Originally bred as a working dog for forcing foxes from their dens during hunts, the Jack Russell has become more than just an employee of English Lords and Ladies, but also a lovable companion that can capture our hearts with a single look or impressive trick.

Many would laugh at the idea of the small stature Russell Terrier acting as a protector of their home or person, but at a carnival in New Zealand, five children were saved from two attacking pit bulls, by a Jack Russell named George who charged straight at them. Unfortunately, George did not survive the fight, but was recognized for his bravery and posthumously awarded the PDSA Gold Medal. Another well known Jack Russell was the spunky and energetic Eddie, played by a father and son named Moose and Enzo on the long running television sitcom Frasier. Eddie, actually received more fan mail than any other character on the show, and it was read to him by his owner, the actor who portrayed Frasier's father Martin.

Although not standing very high, the Russell Terrier gives an impression of sturdiness and balance with a well proportioned body and good muscle definition. Two V-shaped ears hang to the front and a tail set high in the back that was normally in the past, docked to five inches to give the owner a place to hold the dog back during the excitement of a fox hunt. In the show ring, it is considered poor to have their tail down and this is an indication that something is very wrong with the dog. Although, normally sleek coated and predominantly white in color, the Jack Russell Terrier can also sometimes be found sporting a shaggier coat of almost entirely brown, thus causing it to be confused with another variation of the Terrier breed, the Parson Russell Terrier, although the general public simply refers to them all as Jack Russell Terrier and is largely oblivious to the existence of other breeds.

If considering a Jack Terrier as a new pet, one should be forewarned that despite their small size, these lively little guys are not suited to apartment or condominium living, unless their owner is prepared to invest a considerable amount of time and effort to the exercise and excitement of their new 'big dog' minded friend. With their tempered aggressiveness, the Jack Russell Terrier can act as a suitable guard dog, warning you of the unexpected arrival of in-laws coming up the walkway, while not actually landing you in hot water by something as rash as biting the mailman. Fiercely protective, but still gentle and great around children, these are excellent family dogs as well. Keep in mind however that a Jack Russell Terrier can sometimes get in to trouble with other larger dogs if it feels that its space or its owner is threatened. These are tendencies that any prospective new owner should be aware of, but can easily be tempered with obedience classes as the Jack Russell Terrier is an eager learner and a quick study.
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