The Jack Russell Terrier is a breed with which it is immensely fun. They can be wonderful pets, but only if they are raised under control. This small terrier is energetic and fierce, and caring for one of these dogs can be challenging. If you are considering purchasing a Jack Russell, there are a few things you should know about training and education.
All puppies can be difficult to raise, but Jack Russell are in their league. These dogs are intelligent, but they will need some time to get involved in your training plan. As soon as your puppy gets home, you should start training him. The sooner they get used to following a series of rules, the better. These dogs are independent thinkers, and if they want to do something, they will do everything in their power to do just that. Here are some tips from professionals for training Jack Russell terriers.
1. Choosing a puppy
Unofficial training starts from the moment you get in touch with the breeder. You should ask about the individual characters of the puppy. It is important because puppies come from the same litter doesn’t mean they will have similar personalities. In fact, they are vastly different. You should choose a puppy that would be easier to train and socialize. Talk with the breeder and ask for his opinion and advice. A good breeder will know how to recommend a puppy that will suit you best.
2. Other pets
Jack Russell is a terrier and it does not have a good relationship with some pets, such as guinea pigs, ferrets, bunnies, snakes, rats or anything similar to rodents. Terriers have a naturally high prey instinct, and mixing them with these types of pets is a recipe for disaster. These dogs were originally grown up to hunt and control pests, hunt foxes and other small animals, and to insure unwanted guests in homes and farms. It’s not something you can easily throw out of the breed. This may not be Jack Russell’s training advice, but it’s something new owners absolutely must know.
3. Training for urination
Training a Jack Russell terrier to perform urination will take longer than the average puppy. These dogs are not unintelligent, but they simply need a long time to fully accept your rules. Most dogs can learn “where to defecate” relatively quickly, but it will take your Jack Russell about 8 months to fully accept the rules. There are many explanations on this issue, and our favourite is that they simply loved to mark their territory. These dogs wanted to let the pests know that it was their territory.
4. Take your position of a leader
Some dogs, such as the Alaskan Malamute, do not respond too well to role-based training. However, Jack Russell responds well. You need to position yourself as the leader of your household. Your dog needs to know that you are setting the rules and he needs to listen to you. If you don’t, the dog will take that position and it can be difficult to change roles. Never use fear or punishment as a way to take on that role. It will be enough to simply be constant and stick to a schedule.
5. Patience
If you ask any Jack Russell terrier owner, he will undoubtedly tell you that the key to successful growing up of these dogs is patience. These dogs can be stubborn and you will need a lot of patience if you want to own one. You will have to repeat the command over and over again for the dog to accept them. Make sure you have enough patience for your dog.
6. Obedience training
Basic obedience training is probably a good idea no matter what breed you have at home, but obedience training is a necessary part of Jack Russell terrier training. Basic obedience will not only teach your dog some useful commands like “wait,” “sit,” and “lie down,” but will also teach your dog that you are the leader. This type of training is essential if you want to have a well-behaved dog at home.
7. Get a cage
Some owners think cages are cruel, but in fact a Jack Russell terrier could benefit from that. Dogs like to have their own place where they can relax and be left alone. This is especially true of Jack Russell puppies. They are energetic and if you don’t make them rest, they will just keep going. Like young children, puppies can become grumpy if they are tired.
