Jack Russell Terriers are a type of working terrier that has been bred strictly for hunting since their beginnings early in the 1800’s.  The breed takes its name from the Reverend John Russell who developed it in Devonshire, England in the mid to late 1800’s.  The Reverend Russell, who lived from 1795 to 1883, had a passion for fox hunting and for breeding dogs that excelled at fox hunting.

Jack Russell Terriers are generally happy, self assured, energetic dogs.  They are smart, assertive little dynamos that make very loyal companions.

Most Jack Russell's live to hunt.  Some hunt in the field, but others who live in more confines spaces enjoy hunting the odd mouse or rodent.  Below is JBA Gray-Leigh doing what Jack Russells' enjoy the most!  She had located something in the hollow of an old tree.

Although all Jack Russell’s are of one general type, hunting, they do come in three different coat types, smooth, broken, and rough.  Coarse coats are dominant over smooth ones.

Height also varies.  While they're mature height is between 10 and 15 inches, it is important to know that when showing your Jack Russell they are classified into two groups.  They are 10" to 12 1/2", and over 12 1/2" and up to 15".

Colors and markings also vary, but all JRT’s have to be at least 51% white or completely white.  Tan and/or black markings are allowed, as are black and brown noses.

Another breed trait is their upright tails that are cropped soon after birth so that it will be about four inches long as an adult.  Dewclaws are also removed soon after birth.

Most JRTs can adapt to cold weather just fine, but most are more comfortable wearing a sweater if the temperature reach the 30s or below.

The Jack Russell Terrier Club of America, known as the JRTCA, is one of the most unique registries in the world.  The JRTCA is the elite organization that registers dogs on their own merits, not simply on the fact that the parents are registered.  The AKC registers puppies of all breeds at birth if their parents were registered, which allows genetic defects to continue within the breed.  The JRTCA on the other hand, opposes this notion.  A dog is not eligible for registration until its first birthday and has reached adulthood and is free from defects.  We do guarantee our puppies for a full year for any genetic abnormalities.  At the time of the dog's first birthday, the registration application is sent in along with the following:

• A JRTCA Veterinary Certificate, completed and signed by a licensed veterinarian stating that he/she has examined the dog and found it to be free from inherited defects.

• A Pedigree, complete to at least four generations showing that the dog is not inbred and signed by the breeder.

• Stud Service Certificate, completed and signed by the owner of the sire, verifying parentage.

• Photographs, clear color photos with the dog standing on a firm ground.  Pictures are required to clearly show each side and the front of the terrier so the candidate can be evaluated for adherence to the breed standard.

True Grit is the national magazine of the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America. It is published to keep members in touch with each other and abreast of what is going on throughout the country and within the JRTCA.  It is included in your JRTCA membership and we highly recommend it.