Trump - The original Jack Russell - A little dog with a bold personality.
These spirited dogs truly embody the term "Small Dog Syndrome," compensating for their compact size with an outsized personality. As the saying goes, inside every Jack Russell is a big dog waiting to break free.
Reverend John Russell
Born on December 21, 1795, in Dartmouth, Devon, England
Reverend John Russell
Reverend John Russell was born on December 21, 1795, in Dartmouth, Devon, England, and passed away on April 28, 1883, at the age of 87, in Black Torrington, Devon, England.
He attended Exeter College, Oxford, and became a prominent figure known for his passion for fox hunting and dog breeding.
Reverend Russell is celebrated as the developer of the Jack Russell Terrier and the Parson Russell Terrier, both distinct variations of the fox terrier breed.
Russell’s journey as a breeder began when he purchased his first small tan-and-white female terrier from a local milkman. According to legend, while studying at Exeter College, he spotted the dog, named "Trump." She had striking dark tan markings over her eyes, ears, and the tip of her tail, with a small patch near the root of her tail. Captivated by her appearance and traits, Russell made her the foundation of a new line of fox-hunting terriers.
These terriers, now famously known as Jack Russell Terriers, were bred to be agile and strong, with short, sturdy legs—perfectly suited for digging out foxes that had gone to ground during hunts. Russell’s dedication to breeding these dogs left an enduring legacy in the world of dog enthusiasts and fox hunting alike.
History of a Jack Russell Terrier
Originally known as the Fox Terrier, this breed has a rich history dating back over 200 years, when it was favored by fox hunting enthusiasts. In the late 1800s, it was renamed after Reverend John (Jack) Russell, an avid hunter and the breed’s passionate advocate. Born near Dartmouth in 1795, Jack Russell came from a family of clergymen. He was educated in Tiverton before attending Oxford University. After being ordained as a minister in 1819, he served as the vicar of Swimbridge in Devon. To honor his legacy, the local pub was renamed the "Jack Russell Inn," a name it proudly carries to this day.
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Originally bred as hunting dogs, Jack Russell Terriers have a natural instinct for running and chasing. Their high energy levels mean they require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Without proper activity, they can quickly become bored, which may lead to destructive behaviors.
After World War II, the demand for hunting dogs significantly declined, leading to a decrease in Jack Russell Terrier populations. Over time, these spirited dogs found new roles as beloved family pets and loyal companions.
Jack Russell Terriers are a highly energetic breed that thrives on ample exercise and mental stimulation.
Known for their friendly and lively nature, these dogs embrace life with unmatched enthusiasm.
In a single day, a Jack Russell Terrier can experience more adventures than many dogs do in an entire month!
Ranked 84th out of 184 breeds for intelligence, they also stand out as one of the fastest, scoring 1 out of 10 in speed.
This remarkable breed is full of surprises, always ready to amaze and inspire with their boundless energy and spirit.
Jack Russell Terriers are known for their boundless love, unwavering loyalty, and fearless nature. These spirited dogs are full of passion and courage, ready to take on anything that comes their way.
The Fox Hunt
Fox hunting rose in popularity during the eighteenth century and, over the following century, evolved into a more structured and fast-paced tradition, particularly favored by the gentry.
Initially, terriers were made to run alongside the hounds, but many struggled to keep up and were often too exhausted by the time they reached the fox's den.
To address this, riders began carrying terriers in specially designed saddle bags, releasing them fresh and ready for action once they arrived at the den. Before the hunt, hunters would barricade as many foxholes as possible to prevent the fox from immediately taking refuge. However, foxes often located alternative dens, abruptly ending the chase.
When a fox took cover, terriers were sent into the hole while the hounds were held back to avoid interference.
A good hunting terrier needed a balanced temperament—too timid, and it couldn’t face the fox; too aggressive, and it risked killing the fox outright, which was equally undesirable.
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