Jack Russell Terrier
Male: 6-8 kg, Female: 6-8 kg
25-30 cm at the shoulder
13-16 years
England
About the Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a legendary working terrier, originally developed in the early 19th century by Reverend John Russell in Devonshire, England. Purpose-built for the hunt, this breed was designed with a specific 'spanable' chest to allow it to navigate narrow underground fox dens. Despite their small stature, they possess the stamina and courage of a dog ten times their size, making them tireless companions for active owners. In the modern Australian home, the Jack Russell is a charismatic and devoted family member. While they have transitioned from the hunting field to the suburban backyard, their sharp intellect and high prey drive remain intact. They are famous for their 'big dog' personality, often forgetting their size when interacting with larger breeds. For those who can provide the mental and physical outlets they crave, the Jack Russell is an incomparable and endlessly entertaining partner.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Jack Russell Terrier is distinguished by its lithe, flexible body and rectangular silhouette, appearing slightly longer than tall. A key breed-specific requirement is the 'spanable' chest; a judge must be able to encircle the chest behind the shoulders with two hands, reflecting the breed's ability to work underground. Their movement is free, jaunty, and full of character, with a level topline and a tail set high. What truly sets the Jack Russell apart is its 'varminty' expression—a keen, sparkling alertness in the almond-shaped eyes that signals a fearless and ready-for-anything attitude. This unique combination of rugged utility and spirited elegance makes them a standout example of functional conformation.
In Australia
It is believed that the first Jack Russell Terriers were imported into Australia from the UK in the mid-1960s, establishing the breed's presence before official registration systems were implemented. In 1972, the Jack Russell Terrier Club of Australia was formed. The Jack Russell Terrier Club of Australia was established with the express purpose of preserving the breed's working characteristics.
Bred For
Fox hunting; specifically developed to bolt foxes from their burrows using its small, flexible frame and vocal persistence.
Temperament
Bold, fearless, highly intelligent, energetic, and alert.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
(), , Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA), Late Onset Ataxia (LOA), and hereditary .
Grooming Needs
Low to Moderate; smooth coats need weekly brushing, while broken and rough coats require occasional hand-stripping to remove dead hair and maintain weather resistance.
Living Suitability
While they can adapt to apartment living if their significant exercise needs are met, they thrive best in homes with a small to medium-sized, securely fenced yard where they can explore and play safely.
Good with Kids
Generally good with older children who understand how to interact with a high-energy dog; their exuberant nature may be overwhelming for very young toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Can be assertive with other dogs and typically has a very high prey drive towards smaller household pets like cats, rabbits, or guinea pigs.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and quick to learn, but possesses a strong independent streak; they require consistent, positive reinforcement-based training to keep them focused.
Coat & Colours
Smooth, Broken, or Rough; always harsh, dense, and weatherproof.. White must predominate (at least 51%) with black, tan, or brown markings.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Jack Russells are more likely to experience certain breed-specific predispositions that owners should prepare for. They are prone to Primary Lens Luxation (PLL) and Patellar Luxation (sliding kneecaps); maintaining a lean weight and choosing a fresh-food diet can help support joint health and overall longevity. Like many terriers, they can be predisposed to skin allergies or atopic dermatitis, often reacting to fillers in commercial kibble—many owners find that a fresh Majestik diet helps maintain a clear, healthy coat. You may also find they have an irresistible urge to dig or chase due to their high prey drive; providing a dedicated sandpit and engaging in scent games can satisfy these natural instincts. They are quite vocal and will likely alert you to every passerby with a sharp bark, but this same trait makes them excellent little watchdogs. While they can be stubborn during training, their immense loyalty and 'busy' personality make them a joyful addition to an active home.
Feeding Guide for Your Jack Russell Terrier
Healthy Weight
6.0-8.0 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
140-210 grams
Adult Jack Russells should be fed approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily in high-quality fresh or raw food. For an average 7kg adult, this is roughly 140-210g per day, ideally split into two meals to maintain steady energy levels. Adjust portions based on individual activity levels, as their high-energy nature can lead to rapid calorie burning.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-protein, nutrient-dense diet is essential to fuel their high metabolism. They thrive on fresh, whole-food diets that avoid artificial fillers which can trigger common terrier skin sensitivities.
A balanced raw diet for a Jack Russell should consist of 80% lean muscle meat, 10% edible bone, and 10% organ meats (half of which should be liver). Majestik's Kangaroo or Beef blends are excellent choices, providing the lean protein required for their active muscles without unnecessary fats. Incorporate small amounts of leafy greens and omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flaxseed to support skin health, as terriers can be prone to seasonal dryness.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Jack Russell Terrier Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Jack Russell Terrier? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
4-8 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.