Jack Russell Terrier
Also known as Terrier Jack Russell
Great Britain, Small sized Terriers
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 25–30 cm
- Weight
- 5–8 kg
- Life expectancy
- 13–16 yrs
- Bold
- Energetic
- Clever
- Determined
- Playful
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small, energetic working terrier from Great Britain, developed for bolting foxes and controlling vermin. It is compact and athletic, usually predominantly white with tan or black markings, with a smooth, rough or broken coat. It is longer in the leg than its close relatives, and built for stamina rather than show.
Temperament
Bold, lively and clever, with a high prey drive and a strong will. It is often affectionate with its family but may be scrappy with other dogs. It needs consistent, reward-based training and early socialisation.
Exercise
Needs at least an hour of daily vigorous exercise, plus mental games. Without enough activity it may become destructive or noisy.
Grooming
Smooth coats need occasional brushing; rough and broken coats need weekly brushing and occasional tidying. Shedding can be steady.
Care & wellbeing
Secure fencing is important, as it can dig and jump well. Keep dental care up and weight in check.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 6.5 kg adult- Water
- 260 ml–390 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 460 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Jack Russell Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A small, energetic British terrier bred for working with hounds and bolting foxes. Bred for stamina and courage, it is an intelligent, driven dog that does best with plenty of activity and mental work.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Primary lens luxation
- Patellar luxation
- Deafness
- Hereditary ataxia
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- DNA test for primary lens luxation
- Hearing tests
- Knee checks
- Eye tests
Not every Jack Russell Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 13–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Jack Russell Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
- Owners ready for a long commitment — often well into their teens
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Jack Russell Terrier get?
Adult Jack Russell Terriers typically stand about 25–30 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 5–8 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Jack Russell Terriers live?
Typically 13–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Jack Russell Terrier need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Jack Russell Terrier need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Jack Russell Terriers easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Jack Russell Terriers shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Jack Russell Terriers good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Jack Russell Terrier live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Jack Russell Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to primary lens luxation, patellar luxation, deafness. Not every Jack Russell Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Small sized Terriers
- Internationally recognised
- 2003