If you own a Jack Russell or have encountered one before, you would know how strong, determined, fast, and agile they are.
They have an abundance of energy and a very strong prey drive.
They also love chasing small animals, and this trait has led many to ask whether or not a Jack Russell can catch a rabbit.
Let’s find out.
Can A Jack Russell Catch A Rabbit?
Yes, Jack Russells can catch a rabbit because they have a very high prey drive and because they were specifically bred for the purpose of hunting small animals, including rabbits. The Jack Russell Terrier is described by its creator, Parson John Russell, as the best that a dog could be, “…strongly made, nimble and quick as a squirrel, with keen senses of sight and smell well adapted for hunting rabbits.”
Are Rabbits Scared Of Jack Russells
Yes, rabbits are scared of Jack Russells and dogs in general. Rabbits are very intelligent animals and they know very well when they’re being hunted, but despite that, they do live in fear of predatory animals.
Can A Rabbit Hurt My Jack Russell?
While a rabbit won’t hurt your Jack Russell physically during a chase, it can pass ticks and fleas to your dog. This in itself can pose some potential health risks to your Jack Russell.
In addition to this, if your Jack Russell has eaten the rabbit then it can get bacteria or tapeworms. This also poses risks to your dog’s health and if your Jack Russell has eaten a vet and you’re concerned, consult a vet.
Are Rabbit Droppings Harmful To Jack Russells?
Despite the fact that Rabbits can pass ticks and fleas, or tapeworms to your dog, their droppings will not pose any danger to your Jack Russell should he eat it. It can make your backyard an unpleasant place to be, but your pup will be fine.
Can a Jack Russell Live With a Rabbit?
No, Jack Russells cannot live with a rabbit and I would strongly advise that you do not bring a Jack Russell into a home where a rabbit is kept as a pet or vice versa.
Due to the fact that they were specifically bred for hunting small animals such as rabbits, it is most likely that a Jack Russell will not live in harmony with a rabbit. Jack Russells have a natural hunting instinct that cannot be trained out of them.
Should I Punish My Jack Russell For Killing A Rabbit?
No, you shouldn’t punish your Jack Russell for killing a rabbit because they have a strong prey drive, and it is only natural for them to hunt and ultimately kill a rabbit.
As mentioned earlier, it is not a good idea to keep a Jack Russell and a rabbit in the same home, and it is important that you understand that your pup will hunt the rabbit if given the chance.
Why Did My Jack Russell Bring Me A Dead Rabbit?
If your Jack Russell has just walked into your room with a dead rabbit, then don’t be alarmed and remain calm. This is normal behavior and this is just his way of trying to please you. He also wants to share his catch with you and provide for you.
Just take the dead rabbit from him gently and dispose of it. You may also just acknowledge this gesture by either rubbing his belly or rewarding him with a treat.
Conclusion
There you have it, a Jack Russell is perfectly capable of catching a rabbit. Our favorite furry friend was specifically bred to hunt small animals such as rabbits, so it is in their nature to hunt.
They are small, agile, determined, and have a strong prey drive.
If you own a Jack Russell, think twice before bringing a rabbit into your home as a pet. These two animals will more than likely not be able to live in harmony, and your pet rabbit will lose the fight.
If your Jack Russell has come in close contact with a rabbit or has eaten it, consult with a vet to make sure that your pup didn’t get any fleas and ticks, or tapeworms from the rabbit.
