Jack Russell Terrier Training
Jack Russell Terriers and Parson Russell Terriers are very similar dogs, the Parson Russell being taller, from about twelve inches in height. The two breeds’ behavioral characteristics are generally the same:
- Highly energetic, and soon bored
- Tend to yap and bark a lot as they are soon aroused
- More likely to bite than many breeds
- Can be difficult to leash train
Some of these behaviors can be appropriately trained using techniques described in other posts on this site. The standard training practices of being consistent, assertive and not indicating stress to the dog will be required but coupled with persistence and more patience than is often the case with “normal” dog training.
Russell Terriers like a challenge and plenty of exercise and activity, so much so that they do well in advanced training like agility training and the more energetic exhibition activities. This aspect lends more emphasis to the idea of completing basic training as soon as possible with the young dog, but NOT at the expense of losing sdome of the individual dog’s spirit, character and natural exuberance.
One of the most important parts of training the Jack Russell Terrier is to ensure that it is socialized when young with other dogs, pets and children, especially the latter and under supervision with all three. It is worth doing a little teaching of the children too, when a Russell Terrier is around. Teasing the Russell puppy will be risky both immediately and longer-term as if an inappropriate reaction occurs in the dog, which will rapidly become a hard-to-stop habit if not admonished.
A feisty and difficult Russell may require the use of additional training tools such as training collars and leashes, but only usually if it has not been trained properly early enough. As an owner, you will be in the best position to judge when these might be appropriate. However, help is available if required. Jack Russell Terriers and Parson Russell Terriers make great pets, but getting the right training in early is the key.
