Jack Russell Terrier
Smart, active and determined
Jack Russells 101
Terrier groupThe Jack Russell Terrier, also known as the Parson Russell Terrier, is high-energy and independent dog who is as close to a real working terrier as it gets. JRT fans often laugh about the trouble these little charmers get into, which is good because these dogs can get into a lot of it. They are determined diggers, alert watch dogs and an endless source of entertainment.
What we love about Jack Russells
Endless energy, endlessly amusing.
The JRT is intensely devoted to family, scrappy with other dogs, and generally not safe around small pets such as rats and guinea pigs. They’re a very smart breed, but not particularly obedient – they can be stubborn and strong-willed. Despite that, these bright terriers do well at a variety of canine sports.
Energy level
Energy level: 100% (Very high)
Bark level
- Very vocal
- Talkative
- As needed
Bark level: Very vocal. This breed is very vocal and barks frequently
Size
Size: 10 to 12 inches tall. This is a Small sized Dog.
- Energy level
- Very high (100%)
- Bark level
- Very vocal
- Height
- 10 to 12 inches
- Lifespan
- 12 to 14 years
- Weight
- 9 to 15 lbs
The Jack Russell Terrier stands 10 to 12 inches tall and weighs 9 to 15 lbs. Jack Russell Terriers have a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. They are known for a very high (100%) energy level and a very vocal bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do Jack Russell Terriers get?
- Jack Russell Terriers stand 10 to 12 inches tall and typically weigh between 9 and 15 pounds.
- How long do Jack Russell Terriers live?
- The average lifespan of a Jack Russell Terrier is 12 to 14 years.
- Are Jack Russell Terriers good for first-time dog owners?
- Jack Russell Terriers are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Do Jack Russell Terriers bark a lot?
- Jack Russell Terriers are very vocal — they bark frequently and use their voice to communicate.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This Jack Russell Terrier health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.
Mature adult Jack Russell
Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions
Mid-life Jack Russell Terriers should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health.
- Dental disease
- Above Average Risk
- Pancreatitis
- Above Average Risk
- Skin allergies
- Above Average Risk
40% on risk scaleSenior Jack Russell
Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions
Senior Jack Russell Terriers face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Cataracts and Kidney failure pose very high risk. Liver disease is at high risk.
- Cataracts
- Very High Risk
- Kidney failure
- Very High Risk
- Liver disease
- High Risk
Jack Russell puppy
Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions
Jack Russell Terrier puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Toxicity poses very high risk.
- Toxicity
- Very High Risk
- Gastritis
- Moderate Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
Young adult Jack Russell
Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions
As Jack Russell Terriers grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant.
- Allergic reaction
- Above Average Risk
- Skin allergies
- Above Average Risk
- Foreign body ingestion
- Above Average Risk
Mature adult Jack Russell
Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions
Mid-life Jack Russell Terriers should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health.
- Dental disease
- Above Average Risk
- Pancreatitis
- Above Average Risk
- Skin allergies
- Above Average Risk
Senior Jack Russell
Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions
Senior Jack Russell Terriers face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Cataracts and Kidney failure pose very high risk. Liver disease is at high risk.
- Cataracts
- Very High Risk
- Kidney failure
- Very High Risk
- Liver disease
- High Risk
Jack Russell puppy
Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions
Jack Russell Terrier puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Toxicity poses very high risk.
- Toxicity
- Very High Risk
- Gastritis
- Moderate Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
Young adult Jack Russell
Risk level for common Jack Russell conditions
As Jack Russell Terriers grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant.
- Allergic reaction
- Above Average Risk
- Skin allergies
- Above Average Risk
- Foreign body ingestion
- Above Average Risk
Nationwide can help you save on your Jack Russell Terrier's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 6 months)
- Toxicity: Very High Risk, Gastritis: Moderate Risk, Ear infection: Moderate Risk
- Young Adult (7 months to 5 years)
- Allergic reaction: Above Average Risk, Skin allergies: Above Average Risk, Foreign body ingestion: Above Average Risk
- Mature Adult (6 years to 9 years)
- Dental disease: Above Average Risk, Pancreatitis: Above Average Risk, Skin allergies: Above Average Risk
- Senior (10+ years)
- Cataracts: Very High Risk, Kidney failure: Very High Risk, Liver disease: High Risk
Jack Russell Terriers gained popularity thanks to appearances in movies and TV shows. On the TV show “Frasier,” Eddie was played by two dogs: Moose and his son Enzo. The children’s series “Wishbone,” set in a fictional Texas town, featured the imaginary literary adventures of the title character, a JRT played by a dog named Soccer. Soccer got the part after showing off a back-flip.
Jack Russell Terrier coat care and colors
The Jack Russell Terrier comes in short- and wire-haired varieties. The short-haired version requires only regular brushing and the occasional bath. Depending on the length and condition of the wire coat, keeping the Jack Russell clipped short may be easier. For most Jacks, all that’s needed is occasional brushing to keep the coat in good shape. Additionally, acclimating puppies to having their feet handled will make a lifetime of nail trims easier.
Do Jack Russells need haircuts?
Do Jack Russells need haircuts?
What kind of brush do you use on a Jack Russell?
What kind of brush do you use on a Jack Russell?
How often do Jack Russells need to be bathed?
How often do Jack Russells need to be bathed?
Jack Russell exercise & training
Jack Russell fun facts
Top girl names for Jack Russells
of Jack Russells are female
of Jack Russells are male
Top boy names for Jack Russells
Nationwide loves Jack Russell Terriers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among Jack Russell Terriers insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
Jack Russell Terrier statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Jack Russells
Best. Jack Russell Terrier insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free