Let’s face it, there is all sorts of bad press about Jack Russell Terriers out there. A couple of experiences involving bad pet parents and a case of a bad dog or two have made this breed into one as bad as the myth revolving around a pit bull. If you are considering looking at a Jack Russell Terrier as being a pet, but are concerned about the stories you’ve been hearing, here are some myths that we can take away from your decision.
1. Jack Russell Terriers are hyper and crazy
While this dog is definitely one who would need an active owner and lifestyle, Jack Russell Terriers are not hyper or crazy, as the myths suggest. They simply need plenty of time and space to run around, play, and interact with you. They don’t like to be cooped up in a small apartment where there is no room to move around or play. They need to run and have a great time in an open space. If you are an owner who can give him time to play and run around, you’ll see that he is actually a very calm dog.
2. They will destroy your home and yard
Again, this myth relates back to having a Jack Russell Terrier in a place that doesn’t give him time to play or run as he needs to. This breed of dog will dig a hole in your yard if you don’t give him something to do, but any dog would if he got bored enough. Play with him regularly and you’ll stay safe from holes. Additionally, dogs get lonely when they’re left alone for many hours at a time, so don’t be surprised if you come home to a destroyed pillow or two after leaving him along for 12 hours straight.
3. They will bark all the time
As any guard dog will do, Jack Russell Terriers will bark if they think there is a predator nearby. As you already know, however, so will any other kind of dog that you bring home. Jack Russell Terriers are good guard dogs, so they will bark at anything they think is dangerous. If you find that your dog is barking for no reason, however, he probably just wants some attention. Take him for a walk or play with him for a while, and he’ll calm down.
4. They aren’t good with kids
This is a total myth that is the nugget as to why Jack Russell Terriers are perceived as bad dogs that only cause harm and destruction. Jack Russell Terriers are great companions with children above three years old because they get lots of attention from them. They love to play and be around children because they are just as rambunctious and active as the dog himself. That being said, you should never leave your child unattended around the dog, just like you wouldn’t do that with any other breed of dog. Children and Jack Russell Terriers are a great mix that will provide plenty of great memories.
5. They are not indoor dogs
Jack Russell Terriers can definitely be indoor dogs, as long as they get enough time and space to play outside. Like any dog, their instinct is to go outside and have a great time inspecting their property. If you deny this to your pooch, you are forcing him to go against his nature. He will enjoy being indoors as long as he is given time and things to do outdoors as well. Keep that in mind when planning out your day.
6. They are vicious and nasty
This, again, is a myth that came from a bad experience between owner and dog. As mentioned, Jack Russell Terriers are guard dogs, so if you come into their property and try to approach a Terrier’s family without “permission” from the dog, he could perceive it as a threat and act accordingly. But most dogs would do that, too. You have to treat the dog well and make sure that everyone is happy and feels secure. This dog breed is no more vicious than any other one out there.
7. They are hard to train
While Jack Russell Terriers tend to rebel every once in a while, they are not hard to train. In fact, this is a very smart dog breed who simply gets bored doing the same tricks and tasks over and over again. If you give him space and time to play, he’ll listen to your commands and learn them very quickly so that you and dog are both happy with the arrangement. Your dog will listen to your commands as long as they are logical and aren’t to simple. You are looking at a very smart dog breed.
With these myths exposed for the truth behind them, you can start to make an informed decision about what dog breed is the best mix for you and your lifestyle. Happy hunting!