All About The Jack Russell Terrier

The Mask, the Wizard of Oz, Wishbone, and Frasier. What do these four popular shows and movies have in common? The Jack Russell Terrier! This small size dog breed has been a favorite in the media for not only being charming, but shrewd and very cheerful. There are many amazing qualities and facts about the Jack Russell Terrier. Here are just a few things to know about them.

The Jack Russell Terrier originates from England about two centuries ago. The original purpose of the Jack Russell Terrier was to hunt foxes. Being that foxes are agile and quick animals, the Jack Russell requires just as much energy to keep up with the fox. That being said, in addition to being intelligent dogs, these dogs have an almost unlimited amount of stamina and must always be kept physically busy.

This is actually the contrary of what TV shows and movies portray. The JRT's shown in the media usually appear to be animals that are content with being in one's arms or lap. While these dogs are very affectionate, anyone who is thinking of adopting such spirited dog should keep in mind that they were bred to hunt and to work. As such, they require a great amount of attention and dedication. When keeping these dogs active with mental and physical activity will decrease, if not eliminate, any unwanted behavior, such as destroying furniture and clothing.

Bravery is the next trait to know about this breed. They appear to have no fear and will have no problem defending itself or standing up to a much larger breed of dog. They are also content with being the only Jack Russell in the home. Experts recommend separating or keeping two Jack Russell Terriers from each other. They can become quite possessive with things that they see, and again, have no problems defending what they feel is theirs.

It's always best to understand the characteristics and traits of a dog, regardless of the breed. This will help to make sure that there's a solid relationship between the JRT and its human owner. It is true that these small breeds require plenty of attention and time, but it is well worth to know that they enjoy, as well as excel, at training and will have no issues understanding what they are being taught. In the end, not only Jack Russell Terriers are hardworking, intelligent, and witty dogs, but kind, charming, and loving to their human friends.

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5 Great Reasons to Adopt Small Dogs

Are you thinking to adopt a small breed dog, but are quite confused whether to go for it or not? Small breed dogs are cute looking showering lots of love and affection. They are happy for life filling your life with full of joy and happiness. With their low energy, fairly cool indoors, and decorous with other residents, these dogs provide lots of reasons to adopt them.

You can find that many Hollywood stars are pet parents of these small breed dogs. However, some people are prejudiced about owning these little pups as it seems to them that training these animals is quite difficult due to their cute and innocent appearance. Nevertheless, giving training at an early age or with the help of a dog trainer can definitely turn them into well-mannered pets, always following your commands.

Added to this, dog lovers' other worry is about high maintenance due to the perception that they are specially meant for millionaires. On the contrary, this is not true as there does not require much budget for maintenance of this breed. So, if you are interested in getting a small dog, then go with it as there are many other benefits attached to it, which you will definitely like to cherish.

They are Adorable

Small dogs are as cute as puppies. Appearing as a bouncing ball of fur, they are great for sight and simply adorable to fall in love with them. With low agility profile and adjusting in the lap, they are liked by everyone in the house - whether small or big.

They are Small

Normally, pet parents consider their dog's appearance wondering whether he will retain his innocence and cuteness; the fact remains intact if it is for small dogs. Because the size of a normal breed dog increases and the sweet look just diminishes away as he adds up the years. On the other side, this does not apply to a small dog because they don't develop in size with age, which would make you feel that you are the pet parent of the same young puppy. Isn't it interesting to have that innocence and cuteness same like a puppy with your small dog!!!

They Don't Take Much Space

Well the sizes speak for themselves. Big - means huge space and Small - means less space. No wonder because of the small size, these dogs require comparatively less space than huge dogs. Having smaller compartments, it becomes quite cumbersome to have big dogs, but for small dogs, they can fit in any smaller space.

They Can Adjust Everywhere

A very strong positive point of having a small dog is that they can adjust anywhere in any given space. Whether you are planning for a campervan tour, or a cruise voyage or planning a holiday to a new destination, there is nothing to worry whether your small furry pal can be adjusted. During the journey they are effortless to transport, lift and opt-for.

They remain Calm

Small dogs are not as aggressive and full of energy as their bigger counterparts. This is a very good thing if you are a senior citizen or have small kids. Rather than jumping on the passersby or terrifying others due to their large size, small dogs are easier to handle going on the walks or visiting the dog parks.

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5 Popular Dog Breeds And Some Health Problems That They Are More Prone To Suffer

The most popular dog breeds each have potential health issues that are common to their breed. Increased knowledge of the predisposed or more common health problems of a breed can sometimes make us more aware and enable us to be more pre-emptive and proactive should a problem occur.

Below are five breeds and their commonly associated health issues. This is not an exhaustive list and should never be used as a guide for diagnosing health issues in your dog. Any suspected health problem should be properly diagnosed and treated by a veterinary professional.

German Shepherds

Whilst it is more commonly known that this smart and active breed require a lot of stimulation and exercise to keep them in peak condition, they are also prone to the following conditions:

• Hereditary canine hip dysplasia - a condition that is due to a deformed hip socket that can lead to lameness or arthritis.

• Chronic eczema- studies have shown that this common non-contagious skin disease that is estimated to be prevalent in 3-10 percent of dogs has a higher incidence rate within the German Shepherd breed.

• Keratitis - This is a disease of the cornea of the eye and German Shepherds are more prone to the affliction than many breeds of dog.

Jack Russell Terriers

Jack Russell Terriers commonly live a lot longer than many breeds and regular exercise will help them to keep healthy. Health problems common to Jack Russell's include:

Glaucoma - This can lead to a gradual loss of vision

• Epilepsy - Jack Russell Terriers have a higher predisposition to epileptic seizures than many other breeds.

• Hernias - Sadly hernias are more commonly seen in Jack Russells than many other breeds.

Labrador Retriever

This smart and affectionate breed benefits highly from a lot of exercise and this helps to keep their weight down which strongly contributes to avoiding the cardiovascular problems commonly seen in overweight retrievers.

Other health problems associated with Labrador Retrievers include:

• Hip C - In common with German Shepherds and other large breeds

• Cataracts - Cataracts are common within the breed but can usually be surgically removed.

Lhasa Apso

These lovely little dogs require a regular grooming routine to avoid tangles and associated fur issues.

Health issues common to the Lhasa Apso include:

• Eye problems - The Lhasa Apso breed more commonly suffer from dry eyes, corneal ulcers and cataracts than many other breeds and owners should keep a particular watch in this area.

• Renal dysplasia - This is an inherited kidney disease that is found to be more common in the Lhasa Apso breed.

Dalmatians

This engaging breed, commonly affectionately associated with the popular Disney movie that carries its name is more prone to the following health issues than many other breeds:

• Deafness - This is a common hereditary defect associated with the Dalmatian breed

• Kidney stones - Dalmatians are commonly more afflicted with kidney stones than many other breeds.

To help to relieve the effects of Hip Dysplasia and Joint pain that can effect dogs of all ages, a supplement of Glucosamine can be given.

Liquid Glucosamine
for Small Dogs

Liquid Glucosamine Vegetarian
(can be given to dogs allergic to shellfish)

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