Data Bases • Custom Term Papers • Free Term Papers • Free Research Papers • Free Essays • Free Book Reports • Plagiarism? Links • Top 100 Term Paper Sites • Top 25 Essay Sites • Top 50 Essay Sites • Search 97,000 Papers @ DirectEssays.com • Search 101,000 Papers @ ExampleEssays.com • Search 90,000 Papers @ MegaEssays.com Free Essays • Term Paper Sites • Chuck III's Free Essays • Free College Essays • TermPaperSites.com • My Term Papers • Get Free Essays • Essay World • Planet Papers	Search Lots of Essays Back to Subjects - Animal Science & Zoology jack russell terriers jack russell terriers The Jack Russel Terrier is an amazing little dog. The breed has been used for centuries; with it’s main purpose being Fox hunting. It was not discovered until recently, however, what great companions they make. There are many aspects of the breed one should take into consideration before a puppy is purchased. The aspects that will be discussed in this essay are: personality, overall appearance, and training as well. The Jack Russell Terrier is a breed which takes a lot of effort to own, but is very rewarding once a strong bond has been developed with the animal. Before choosing a puppy a potential owner should study what characteristics they want out their Terrier and also what to look for when making a decision on a puppy. The breed has a size range from 10-15 inches at the withers in the standard of the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America and 12-14 inches in the American Kennel Club (AKC) standard. “It can have smooth, wiry, or broken coat. It is mostly white with black, tan, or brown markings” (Brown 35). There is also short and long legged varieties as well. There are many characteristics which make a dog “good” by the AKC and JRTCA. The dog must appear balanced and be in fit condition. Ears are moderately thick with the flap tipped forward towards the front of the skull. The chest is relatively shallow and narrow, giving an athletic appearance. The rear end provides power and propulsion, feet are cat-like with hard pads, and the high-set tail is docked to about four inches in length. Movement should be free, lively, and well-coordinated (Nicholas 42). Another important factor is the dogs bloodline, and if it is even certified. It is especially important if the potential owner cares to breed the dog that they take all these factors into consideration. It is much easier to find willing breeders when one owns an exceptional dog. One must remember though the dog’s characteristics and bloodline directly correlate to how Most owners, if asked, would not give up their Jack Russell for anything in the world, However, if asked in the first six months of ownership they would have given anything to get rid of it. The care and training of a Jack Russel Terrier are very important to make sure it becomes a well adjusted adult. The Jack Russell needs little grooming and no special physical care. However, he does need to be obedience-trained to walk on a leash, come when called, and stand to be handled. “ Try figure out what your dog is perceiving and feeling. This is the beginning of being able to reach an understanding with your pet and learning how to communicate with it” (Dibra) . Obedience trials are offered by the JRTCA nation wide. Some examples of the trials offered are agility, go-to-ground, search n' sniff, and racing for the breed. These events are a great way to teach a dog obedience while still having fun. Jean and Frank Jackson note that “ it requires the patience of a saint to get a Jack Russell to be perfect. By attending JRTCA events we find it soothes our nerves, and gives the dogs a chance to mingle” (130). The training of a Jack Russell is tiresome, but, with persistence, is often overcome within the first year. The Jack Russell Terrier is a very intelligent breed, and show it off in their personality. He is a fearless, happy, alert, confident, intelligent and lively hunting dog. These qualities make him a sturdy, vigorous companion, ready to meet the world on a moment's notice, and, unless he is appropriately trained and exercised, can be subverted into wanton destructiveness. "The unique personality of this feisty little terrier is capturing the hearts of many, but they are not a dog for everyone. While adaptable to a variety of environments, they are first and foremost bred to be hunting dogs" (Plummer 3) This quote describes the breed’s insatiable urge to chew, dig, break, and maul anytime their owners are not looking. It is suggested that having something that is okay for the dog to chew on around at all times is a very good idea. A good example of such a toy is a “Nyla Bone”, which is made of nylon and is easily digestible, or just regular rawhide strips. The Jack Russell makes a perfect companion and is often compared to human beings because of their intelligence. Overall the Jack Russell Terrier is not a breed which everyone can handle owning ,but is definitely one that everyone can enjoy. If the discussed factors are taken into account and a puppy is chosen wisely a new owner should have no problem becoming very close to their new friend. There is a wide spread interest for the dog around the world and is still rapidly growing. With the Jack Russell gaining exposure in Hollywood and more people being introduced to the breed it’s popularity is increasing exponentially. There fun loving personality and their audacious tenacity to look adorable keeps onlookers and owners alike coming back for more. However, maybe it is the dog who has the upper hand because as Dibra notes “ no one can really own a Jack Russell, you Bibliography: Works Cited Dibra, Bash. “Techniques From the Trainer to the Stars.” 3 March 1997. 16 October 1999.. Nicholas, Anna Katherine. Jack Russell Terriers. Neptune City: T.F.H Publications, 1998. Brown, Catherine. The Jack Russell Terrier An Owners Guide to A Happy Healthy Pet. New York: Resource Publications, 1995. Plummer, Brian. The Complete Jack Russell Terrier. Neptune City: T.F.H Publications, 1992. Jackson, Jean & Frank. The Making Of The Parson Jack Russell Terrier. London: Bankston Publishers, 1985. Word Count: 896
Copyright © 2005 College Term Papers, INC All Rights Reserved.