Breed Health
Jack Russell Terrier Health Issues
A generally healthy, long-lived terrier, though a couple of hereditary eye and joint conditions are worth screening for.
Common Hereditary Conditions
Lens Luxation
A hereditary condition in which the eye’s lens becomes dislodged, notably documented in this breed; a DNA test can identify carriers before breeding.
Patellar Luxation
A kneecap that slips out of place, common in small breeds; mild cases may need no treatment.
Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease
A hip joint disorder affecting young, small-breed dogs, including this one; early lameness in a growing puppy warrants a vet visit.
Deafness
Congenital deafness appears somewhat more often in this breed, particularly in predominantly white-coated individuals; BAER hearing testing can identify affected puppies.
Preventive Care
Requesting a lens luxation DNA test result from a breeder is one of the more valuable checks for this breed. Watching for any limping or reluctance to bear weight in a young, growing puppy helps catch Legg-Calvé-Perthes early. Given its extremely high energy and drive, ensuring adequate daily exercise also supports overall wellbeing.
Did You Know?
Because Jack Russells were bred to squeeze into narrow fox dens, they retain a strong digging and burrowing instinct even as companion pets — a securely fenced yard with a dig-proof barrier matters more for this breed than most.
Jack Russell Terrier Gifts
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