Jack Russell Terrier Care - Keeping Your Dog Groomed and Healthy
Jack Russell Terrier care is the most important aspect of owning a JRT. This page provides all the information you need to keep your dog in good condition and keep an eye out for warning signs of sickness.
Jack Russell Terrier Grooming
Regular grooming is an essential part of Jack Russell care. You should groom your dog at least once a week if it is a short-haired Jack Russell. You can use a special brush or a grooming mitt for this. A rough coat Jack Russell requires more frequent grooming and you will have to pluck the hairs. Click here for more info on how to groom a
long hair Jack Russell.
Jack Russell hair doesn't retain dirt very well, so a bath is usually only needed once every few months. Of course, there will be some dogs who insist on rolling in the filthiest mess they can find at every opportunity. It's important to use a shampoo that is designed for dogs. Dog skin has a different pH level than human skin, so human shampoo can damage your dog's skin and coat. You don't have to clean the entire dog at once - this can build up a negative reaction toward bath time. Dogs have a short attention span. Try bathing the dog a little at a time, in 15-minute sessions, just like when you're training.
Do Jack Russell Terriers Shed?
Shedding will depend on the coat type of your Jack Russell. Smooth coats shed more than rough coat Jack Russells. Smooth coat Jack Russells will need brushing more often when they are shedding a lot to let new hairs come through. Shedding is caused by light exposure, so if your JRT is inside most of the time with electric lights, don't be surprised if it sheds a little all year round.
Jack Russell Terrier Weight
The average weight for a Jack Russell is between 6 to 8 kilograms (about 13-18 pounds). This is of course subject to genetics, but if your Jack Russell is much heavier than this you will want to find out more about Dog Obesity before the dog's weight problems lead to other health issues, like arthritis.
Exercise is a really important part of Jack Russell care and also makes a big difference in training. You can find out more about the role exercise plays in my free training e-course.
Spaying and Neutering
A big part of Jack Russell Terrier Care involves ensuring your dog doesn't end up pregnant with unwanted pups. Spaying applies to female dogs while castration is the term that applies to males. Read more about the health benefits of
spaying your female dog
or
neutering male dogs.
Jack Russell Terrier Health
One of the most imoportant aspects of Jack Russell Terrier care is aintaining your dog's health. This is the key to enjoying a long, full and happy life together.
Sadly, there are many diseases and illnesses that affect Jack Russells. One of the most serious of these problems is leptospirosis in dogs. Another serious canine health issue that can also be highly dangerous to humans is rabies. Rabies is a deadly disease and almost all human cases are the result of dog bites. Get informed about rabies in dogs. and keep your dog and yourself safe.
The following link will give you insight into some of the common health problems Jack Russells face, what to look out for and what you might be able to do to help your dog. Remember - don't use this site as a substitute for professional help. Your pet is too important. If in doubt, consult your vet.
Read about Jack Russell Terrier health problems here.
Jack Russell Life Expectancy
It's not unusual for a JRT to have a lifespan of 12 or 13 years, with some few living up to the age of 20. If you want your dog to live longer, you will need to give your Jack Russell Terrier care of a high standard and take it to the vet for regular check-ups.
Jack Russell Terrier care becomes more complicated as your dog ages. There's a disease that afflicts older dogs which can make it appear that the animal is ageing before its time. If you have an older JRT, you'll want to find out more about Cushing's Disease in dogs.
Eventually there will come a time when you have to say the ultimate goodbye to your dog. Also, you may have times when your dog displays signs of grief for a departed family member. Read more about dog grief.
Consistent and thorough Jack Russell Terrier care is especially important if you have a show dog or you want your dog to compete in trials, but a pet should also be given regular care. Of course, a big part of JRT care is consistent and positive training. If this is a problem with your dog, my free 7 Day Crash Course To Better Jack Russell Behavior may be what you're looking for.
Breeding Care
There's so much that can go wrong when you're breeding puppies, it boggles the mind. Be prepared to feed and care for
lactating dogs
the right way and be aware of the dangers of canine eclampsia and
mastitis
in nursing bitches.
