It’s a great day. You decided to get a Jack Russell Terrier puppy and you are super excited.
But now, it’s time to do some homework before you bring home your new friend with a big personality. You want to make sure that your puppy will be well on their way to having their basic needs covered before they even step foot into their new home.
1. Food and treats
A nutritious diet will mean that your puppy will grow up to be a healthy dog. The first thing to take into consideration is puppy food you want to feed your new friend. You want to make sure that the puppy food you choose will have the correct amount of protein, fat, and fiber in it.
2. Leash and collar
A proper fitting collar will help you to keep your Jack Russell Terrier puppy safe without getting their neck caught or causing them any pain. A leash is just something every dog needs for the safety of both themselves and others.
I recommend a flat leash rather than a retractable leash, but that is really a matter of personal preference. Either will work just fine.
3. Carriers and crates
If you have to leave your puppy at home while you are at work you are going to need something that keeps them safe while also allowing them some freedom.
There are many different types of carriers and crates but anyone would do well as long as it’s safe and comfortable for your pup. Be sure to take measurements before you go shopping so that they get the right size.
4. Toys and chewies
Having the right toys to play with will keep your puppy healthy and happy. Avoid anything with stuffing or very small pieces that could choke your dog. You want to keep them from swallowing things they shouldn’t.
5. Grooming supplies and nail clippers
I always recommend a good brush for getting out those loose hairs. A grooming kit with scissors or clippers and a toothbrush is also very useful for trimming nails and brushing teeth.
Your Jack Russell Terrier will also need a warm place to get bathed. I recommend getting a tub for bathing smaller dogs as it makes these tasks much easier on both you and the dog.
6. Puppy pads
Another thing that can help keep your dog happy is a puppy pad. An incontinence pad will keep your pup from having accidents in the house and give you some peace of mind as well.
Some puppies still have accidents even when they are potty-trained – don’t let them ruin your carpets.
8. Portable dog dish, dog water bottle, and water bottle brush
You will need a place to give them fresh water when they are not at home. A dog bowl that goes with you is an easy solution to this. You will also need to keep their water bowl clean – a bottle cleaner will do the trick.
9. Bedding
A bed for them to call their own will make them feel secure and comfortable. A comforter, dog bed, or even a pillowcase to tuck them in will do the trick. Make sure that you choose something soft and warm for your new friend.
10. Get an ID tag for your dog
The last thing you need to do before bringing your dog home is to make sure that they have an ID tag on their collar. This will help you find them if they get out of the house or if anything happens to them while you are out.
You should also consider getting a microchip for them. These are a good way to keep your dog safe and trackable.
Training your Jack Russell Puppy
Just like with any dog, using positive reinforcement training will work wonders for your Jack Russell Terrier puppy. Teach your puppy the basic commands that you need them to know before they can be fully trusted.
For example, teaching your puppy to come back when called or sit is a great way to start their training.
Raising a Jack Russell Puppy
Raising a puppy is never easy. But don’t fret, if you prepare yourself with the knowledge below, your experience raising your very own Jack Russell Terrier puppy will be a great one.
1. Staying Calm
To get the best out of your Jack Russell Terrier puppy training you will need to stay calm. You don’t want to be anxious about raising a dog or repeat the process with another puppy. Remember, it’s a long-term commitment and you want what’s best for your Jack Russell.
2. Introducing Your Dog to Children
Be sure to introduce your dog to children when they are old enough to interact with him. You don’t want kids fearing dogs, so it’s helpful if they have experience with dogs at an early age.
3. Teaching Your Dog Basic Commands
You must teach your dog basic commands before exposing them to new situations. This will allow you to direct their actions in any new environment they may be in. For example, teaching them no will stop unwanted behaviors from being shown by your pet.
4. Establishing Boundaries
You need to establish boundaries for your pet while they are still a puppy. They don’t recognize that they aren’t allowed on our furniture, for example. It’s our job to teach them that this isn’t OK, so we do so by establishing a boundary and enforcing it consistently.
5. Teaching Your Dog to Walk on a Leash
Your dog needs to be trained to walk on a leash without pulling. This will ensure they aren’t uncomfortable with any new outing. It will also keep you from being dragged across the neighborhood.
6. Crate Training Your Dog
Crate training is one of the easiest ways to teach your dog to behave when you aren’t able to watch them.
7. Teaching Your Dog to Play With Other Dogs
It is good if your Jack Russell Terrier puppy knows how to play with other puppies without showing aggression. This way you won’t have any problems with fights in the future.
8. House training Your Jack Russell Terrier Puppy
House training your puppy is a major part of raising your dog. The whole process takes a while but as always, be patient.
9. Keeping Your Jack Russell Terrier Healthy
A healthy lifestyle is very important for your puppy’s overall well-being even after they are grown. You want your dog healthy so it can live a long and full life. By providing them with the best diet, exercise, medications, and supplements (if needed) you will be able to keep them healthy and strong.
Conclusion
The Jack Russell Terrier breed is known to be one of the most intelligent and friendly dogs in the world. They are a shining example of a loyal dog that has a desire to learn and please its owner.
These characteristics make this breed perfect for families with children, especially if the child is about 2 years old and older. The energy levels of young children will certainly keep your Jack Russell Terrier puppy busy as they follow around their human siblings begging for playtime.
This means you should take special care to ensure that your Jack Russell Terrier puppy will have everything they need before you bring them home.
