Jack Russell
The Jack Russell Terrier is one of Britain's most beloved small dogs, created in the early nineteenth century by Reverend John Russell of Devon, a keen fox hunter who wanted a compact, predominantly white terrier capable of flushing foxes from their burrows.
This working heritage remains evident in the breed's character today.
6-8kg
Weight
Small
Size
13-16yrs
Lifespan
About the Jack Russell
Standing 25–30 centimetres at the shoulder and weighing 6–8 kilograms, Jack Russells are remarkably sturdy for their size, with short coats that come in smooth, broken, and rough varieties, always predominantly white with tan, black, or tricolour markings. Their temperament is best described as bold and energetic, with an inquisitive nature and fearless confidence that can surprise first-time owners. Highly intelligent and responsive to training, they possess strong terrier independence and a powerful hunting instinct that demands consistent, experienced handling. Jack Russells are lively, affectionate companions who thrive with engaged owners willing to provide mental stimulation and up to an hour of daily exercise. They enjoy learning new tasks and can be remarkably entertaining at home, though their prey drive means they may not always tolerate small animals. With appropriate care and training, these spirited dogs typically enjoy lifespans of 13–16 years, making them long-term, rewarding companions for the right household.
Jack Russell at a Glance
- Group
- Terrier
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 6–8 kg
- Height
- 25–30 cm
- Lifespan
- 13–16 years
- Coat
- Short
- Sheds
- Yes
- Exercise
- Up to 1 hour per day
- Typical price
- £500–£1000
Jack Russell Temperament
The Jack Russell Terrier is a bold, energetic and highly intelligent small breed with an inquisitive nature and an instinctive drive to investigate everything around it. It is feisty and fearless, with a strong hunting instinct that makes it a tireless explorer on walks. Despite its size, it is full of confidence and can be stubborn, making consistent training from an early age essential. Jack Russells are lively and entertaining companions that respond well to mental stimulation and enjoy learning new tasks. They are loyal and affectionate with their families but may not always tolerate small animals due to their terrier instincts. An active, engaged owner will get the very best from this spirited and characterful breed.
Jack Russell Lifestyle
The Jack Russell is one of the more adaptable breeds when it comes to home size and copes well in a flat and does well with some outdoor space, even if it isn't large. They tend to do best out in the countryside.
Dog Food for Jack Russell
Top-rated foods for Small breeds, ranked by FurScore. How we score →
Recommended Food for Jack Russell
Jack Russell Food Costs
Estimated based on a typical Jack Russell weighing around 7 kg, using the food prices shown above.
Per day
£1.78 - £1.89
Per month
£53 - £57
Per year
£648 - £691
Jack Russell Characteristics
The Jack Russell demands serious exercise and won't be happy with a quick stroll around the block and trains well and tends to enjoy learning new skills. They are very patient and gentle with kids and handle being left alone without much difficulty. The coat benefits from a brush once or twice a week and sheds moderately. They are sharp and quick-witted, which is a joy, but means they need keeping mentally occupied.
Jack Russell Pros & Cons
Pros
- Bright, spirited, and highly trainable with an impressive ability to problem-solve
- Compact and muscular with the agility and stamina to match any active lifestyle
- A natural at canine sports like agility and flyball
- Loyal and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their owners
Cons
- Needs significant daily exercise and mental stimulation or they will find their own entertainment
- A strong prey drive means off-lead time requires careful supervision
- Can become anxious and unsettled if left alone too often
- Without early training, they can become persistent barkers
