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The red fox was historically the Jack Russell's most common prey.
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When the breed was being established, a chest size of 12 to 14 inches in diameter was the most sought after trait (to make it ideal for entering fox burrows).
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Jack Russell's have three recognized coat types: Smooth, Rough, and Broken.
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In order to avoid behavioral problems, Jack Russell's should be exercised regularly. Excess energy and boredom can lead to destructive behavior like barking and digging.
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JR's are stubborn, proud, and demanding. To balance this they are also loyal, brave, and funny.
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Abandonment of Jack Russell's because of uncontrollable negative behavior is a problem with the breed, and there is a network of Jack Russell rescue organizations trying to save and rehabilitate these wonderful dogs.
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They have been known to kill cats and small animals, even pets in their own household.
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Fearless by nature, they are not afraid to show aggressive behavior toward dogs much larger than they are.
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Because they are very genetically sound, Jack Russell's can live upwards of 18 years and have relatively few inherited problems.
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One of the few congenital problems with this breed is deafness, but puppies are usually tested before being put up for adoption.
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A female named Trump was the template for the Jack Russell breed, a white and tan bitch that Reverend John Russell bought from a milkman. He went on to single-handedly develop the breed that bears his name.
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The term Jack Russell has come to represent a number of working terrier breeds, well beyond the scope of John Russell's original breeding program.
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The frisky dog Eddie on the television show Frasier was a Jack Russell.
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Although they can be good with children, Jack Russell's will not tolerate abuse, and family members should be careful to treat them with respect.
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Many of the potential behavioral issues that plague Jack Russell's as adults can be avoided with firm and patient handling in puppyhood.
