How to Stop a Jack Russell Terrier Biting
Jack Russell Terrier’s are very popular dogs today; a glance at pet sales in your local classifieds will likely have several ads for these vivacious animals. They are small dogs not usually measuring more than 15″ at the shoulder, white bodied with brown and black markings around the face. Their small size, energy and looks have made them the number one pet choice for many people. The problems come in when your Jack Russell becomes aggressive.
If you are having problems with a Jack Russell that bites or otherwise shows aggression it is a problem you need to nip in the bud early. In order to properly challenge this behavior it is a good idea to know a little more about the breed and some potential reasons the dog may be acting out.
Breeding
Originally bred as working dogs the Jack Russell Terrier has boundless energy and focus. The dogs were trained for fox and other ground animal hunts. Their job was to find the animal and either bolt it or keep it in place until the ground critter can be dug out. To do this the Jack Russell must constantly bark and work the animal. This requires a lot of energy and stamina on the part of the dog.
Boredom
When their energy has no outlet, such as in the case of house pets it can quickly turn to restlessness and aggression. In fact, most behavioral problems in Jack Russell terriers can be attributed to lack of companionship, discipline, stimulation and exercise. The first rule of owning a Jack Russell is exercise, exercise, and more exercise.
You should take your terrier for a walk on a regular basis, if you do not have the time for this exercise look for a service that can help you out. Walking your dog on a leash does several important things, it gives them exercise, companionship and discipline.
Training
The best method to stop a Jack Russell from biting is prevention. From a young age, puppies of all breeds will explore the world with their mouths and this leads to nipping and biting if the habit is left unchecked. Training your terrier from a young age that biting or even nipping is inappropriate behavior is your best course of action.
Just Say No!
Dogs still have a few characteristics of their wild ancestors the wolf, in the wild there is a chain of command set up with the alpha male in complete control of the pack. Anytime your dog is allowed to nip and bite you or others many times they are establishing dominance, and this is not the relationship you want to have with your pet. Establish yourself as leader of the pack by firmly telling them no when they bite. In a firm, loud voice communicate to your dog that biting is not acceptable.
Dog’s are a humans best friend, most of the time! When it comes to Jack Russell terriers the key to keeping the relationship congenial is to understand the breed and be consistent with discipline and exercise.