Jack Russell Training:  Anti-Jack Russell Terrorist Basics

Jack Russell Training requires focus and commitment, but when done in stages it is not too overwhelming or time consuming. Training is necessary in order for your Jack Russell Terrier to live in your house along side the rest of the family. Training starts the minute you bring your puppy or adult dog into your home and continues throughout their life span.

It’s a misconception that training your Jack Russell has to be difficult and expensive.  It is also a misconception that the members of the Jack Russell Breed are all hyper and crazy. While it does require patience and creativity on your part in order to train and live with a Jack Russell Dog, the rewards of owning one are well worth it.

There are a few basic things a Jack Russell owner needs to know so they can do the training themselves and get the full potential out of their terrier.

Top 3 Things to Remember When Training a Jack Russell

1. Jack Russell Terriers are very intelligent and can become bored quickly.

2. Jack Russell Terriers require daily and extensive exercise.

3. Jack Russell Terriers like to be part of the action and don’t like to be left alone.

Most dog behavior problems are not a result of having a “bad” dog, they are the result of having a “bad” relationship with your dog. Training your Jack Russell is all about understanding how he is wired and how to communicate what you want.

Mental Stimulation

Consistent training will help give your Jack Russell Terrier the mental stimulation that he craves. Training does not have to be regimented or boring. The key is to always make it fun and give a great reward in the end. Once you have taught your Jack Russell the basics, you can start teaching him tricks. This will challenge him and keep his mind active and engaged.

Exercise or Lack of It

It is an unwritten law. ” A tired dog is a happy dog.” This applies even more to a Jack Russell Dog because they have so much pent up energy.

Jack Russells that get sufficient exercise can expend their energy through running, playing with other dogs, training, or doing agility or gaming. When a terrier doesn’t get sufficient exercise they will redirect their energy into bad behavior. When it comes to training, it is much easier to hold the attention of a dog who is a bit “worn out”.

Companionship and Socialization

Your Jack Russell needs not only your companionship, but the companionship of other dogs as well. A Jack Russell who is left alone for long periods of time will display more unruly behavior than a dog that spends a lot of time at the dog park socializing or being active with his owner. Jack Russells who are left by themselves are more prone to try and escape and run off, have food obsession issues, and can be possessive about toys.