Longevity
Life expectancy
Its life expectancy is generally between 13 and 16 years.
Build
A robust breed?
The general robustness of the Jack Russell Terrier is average to good. It is an enduring and dynamic dog, but this sturdiness does not exclude vigilance regarding certain hereditary conditions and dental follow-up.
Watch points
What to watch for
A serious selection in breeding and regular veterinary follow-up are important in this breed, in particular to detect early the orthopedic, ophthalmic and neurological conditions that may appear in some individuals.
Cerebellar ataxia : Neurological condition that impairs coordination of movements and balance.
Cataract : Clouding of the lens that can gradually reduce vision.
Lens luxation : Displacement of the lens, painful, which may constitute an ophthalmic emergency.
Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease : Condition affecting the head of the femur that can cause pain, lameness and locomotor discomfort.
Myasthenia : Neuromuscular disease causing weakness and abnormal fatigability.
Deafness : Hearing loss that may be present from a very young age in some individuals.
Glaucoma : Increase in intraocular pressure that may damage vision.
Patellar luxation : Displacement of the kneecap that can cause discomfort, lameness or intermittent pain.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Jack Russell Terrier's tolerance to cold as well as heat is average. It adapts to temperate conditions, but requires caution during marked weather episodes.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
The Jack Russell Terrier’s tendency to gain weight is average. Sufficient daily activity and a ration adapted to its lifestyle help maintain a balanced physical condition.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Have the knees and eyes monitored during veterinary check-ups.
- Brush the teeth regularly to limit tartar.
- Check the eyes and ears frequently.
- Trim the nails when they become too long.
Vaccination
Jack Russell Terrier vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Jack Russell Terrier? Like all cats, the Jack Russell Terrier receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Jack Russell Terrier is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Jack Russell Terrier vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Jack Russell Terrier?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Jack Russell Terrier
Monitoring of the knees and eyes is particularly relevant in this breed. Regular dental follow-up is also recommended in order to limit tartar and associated complications.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
