Dog breed · Terrier
Jack Russell Terrier
Energetic, fearless, clever
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 6–8 kg (13–18 lb)
- Height
- 25–30 cm (10–12 in)
- Life span
- 13–16 years
- Origin
- England
By Maya HartThe coat
Short · Patches
Stroke it to see how it lies.
At a glance
Are Jack Russell Terriers right for you?
You will love
- Next to no grooming
Be ready for
- May not share a home happily with other pets
- Needs a lot of exercise every day
- Barks or howls a lot
- Several inherited health problems — choose a breeder who screens
How big, really
Adult Jack Russell Terriers weigh 6–8 kg (13–18 lb). Shoulder height shown at the top of the range.
About the Jack Russell Terrier
Bred to bolt foxes from their dens, the Jack Russell is a big dog in a small body: tireless, brave and endlessly curious. They are great fun for active owners who enjoy training and games, but can be a handful in a quiet home.
Bored Jack Russells dig, bark and escape. Their hunting instincts are strong, so small pets such as hamsters and rabbits are at risk. They are generally healthy and long-lived, and many stay lively well into their teens.
Health to know about
- Luxating patella
- Primary lens luxation (DNA test available)
- Deafness
- Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease
- Spinocerebellar ataxia
Care in short
- An hour or more of exercise and games daily
- Secure fencing — they dig and climb
- Puzzle toys and training to occupy the brain
- Supervise around small pets
Kit for a Jack Russell Terrier
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Best for short coats
Rubber grooming mitt
4.3Soft rubber nubs pick up loose hair and double as a massage.
- Works wet or dry
- Most pets enjoy it
Best for busy minds
Treat-dispensing puzzle toy
4.5Turns part of a meal into a ten-minute job for clever, energetic dogs.
- Adjustable difficulty
- Easy to wash
Best for walks
Padded no-pull harness
4.5Front clip discourages pulling without pressure on the throat.
- Four adjustment points
- Reflective trim
Similar breeds
Questions owners ask
How big does a Jack Russell Terrier get?
Adults usually weigh 6–8 kg (13–18 lb) and stand 25–30 cm (10–12 in) tall.
How long do Jack Russell Terriers live?
Typically 13–16 years.
Are Jack Russell Terriers good with children?
Usually fine with supervision (3 out of 5 on our scale). Every dog or cat is an individual; always supervise young children.
Do Jack Russell Terriers shed?
A moderate amount, more in spring and autumn.
What health problems are Jack Russell Terriers prone to?
Luxating patella; Primary lens luxation (DNA test available); Deafness; Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease; Spinocerebellar ataxia.
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts