Training the Jack Russell Terrier

Many experienced, as well as inexperienced, dog owners are overwhelmed by the demands of a Jack Russell Terrier, leading to the dogs being abandoned even before they reach adulthood. Jack Russells are first and foremost hunting dogs. The traits and skills that make them excellent hunting dogs (i.e., digging, barking, aggressive nature, ability to follow scent) are often interpreted as bad habits that cause people to give them up.

Jack Russell Terriers require a long-term commitment to obedience, activity, exercise and entertainment... their unique character, intelligence and high energy level can frustrate you, will undoubtedly entertain you, and can bring you great joy (when they're happy!) or great grief (when they're not!).

Most behavioral problems are due to a lack of companionship, discipline, activity and exercise.

Training Articles

• The instinctive desire for a secure den is the basis of the psychology behind using a crate as a training aid.
• Housebreaking is finding a means of preventing the puppy from doing his duties in the house and giving him only an opportunity to do it outside.
• Dogs with separation anxiety are so attached to their owners that they become extremely agitated when left alone.
• A Jack Russell Terrier that bites can be a big problem. You must stop this aggressive behavior before it becomes dangerous.
• Terriers fed diets they can't properly digest will eat their stool because they consider it semidigested food rather than waste.
• Condition your deaf terrier to react benignly whenever anything startles it.
• Submissive urination is often an expression of admiration and submission to you, the dog's leader. In dog terms, it is a complement.