Jackapoo
Also known as Jack-A-Poo · Jackadoodle · Poojack
United Kingdom, Doodles and designer crosses
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 25–40 cm
- Weight
- 5–11 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–16 yrs
- Energetic
- Clever
- Fun-loving
- Tenacious
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Jackapoo
The Jackapoo crosses a Jack Russell Terrier with a Toy or Miniature Poodle. It is a small, sturdy dog with a coat that can be wiry, wavy or curly, often in white with tan or black. Personality and coat lean towards one parent or the other in unpredictable ways.
Temperament
Energetic, clever and fun-loving, Jackapoos often have plenty of terrier spirit, including a strong urge to chase and dig. They are quick learners when training is kept varied and rewarding.
Exercise
Expect to give about an hour a day of walks and games. Recall can be unreliable around small animals, so practise it thoroughly.
Grooming
Coat care depends on type: wiry coats need a weekly brush, while curlier coats need more frequent brushing and trimming. Shedding varies, and hypoallergenic claims should be treated with caution.
Care & wellbeing
Both parent breeds can carry inherited eye conditions, so ask about DNA testing. Provide toys and activities to give terrier instincts an outlet. A painful, red or cloudy eye can signal lens luxation, which is an emergency for a vet.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 8 kg adult- Water
- 320 ml–480 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 530 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times 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 Jackapoo
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Jack Russell and Poodle crosses gained popularity in the UK and United States from the 1990s and 2000s. The cross was bred to combine a terrier's lively character with a lower-shedding coat. It remains loosely defined with no standard.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Primary lens luxation
- Patellar luxation
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease
- Deafness
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Primary lens luxation (PLL) DNA test
- PRA-prcd DNA test
- Patella check
- Eye examination
Not every Jackapoo 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 12–16 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 Jackapoo right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
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 Jackapoo get?
Adult Jackapoos typically stand about 25–40 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 5–11 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Jackapoos live?
Typically 12–16 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 Jackapoo 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 Jackapoo need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Jackapoos easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Jackapoos shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Jackapoos good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Jackapoo live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Jackapoos have?
The breed can be prone to primary lens luxation, patellar luxation, progressive retinal atrophy (pra). Not every Jackapoo 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
- United Kingdom
- Type
- Doodles and designer crosses
- Recognition
- A crossbreed, not recognised by kennel clubs