3 Common Jack Russell Terrier Behaviour Problems (And How To Fix Them)

Remember: Jack Russell Terriers are fearless, energetic working dogs packed into a small body. Give them the exercise and mental stimulation they crave, and they'll become the entertaining, devoted companions they were bred to be.

Where Do Jack Russell Terriers Come From?

Jack Russell Terriers were developed in 1800s England by Reverend John Russell, a fox hunting enthusiast. He wanted the perfect fox-bolting terrier.

He bred for working ability over appearance, creating dogs that could keep up with horses and hounds during hunts whilst being small enough to enter fox dens. The breed remained relatively unchanged for over 150 years due to emphasis on function over form.

What were they bred to do?

Jack Russell Terriers had a very specific hunting job:

• Bolt foxes from underground dens during fox hunts
• Be small enough to fit into fox holes (weighing 13-17 lbs)
• Be fearless enough to confront foxes underground in complete darkness
• Be tenacious enough to never give up
• Be energetic enough to run with horses and hounds for hours
• Be tough enough to withstand bites and scratches

They were working terriers first and foremost.

Key breeding traits:

Jack Russells have extreme high energy and stamina bred for all-day hunting. They're fearless (bordering on reckless) with an intense prey drive and desire to chase and kill small animals.

They have powerful jaws and strong necks for fighting underground, almost obsessive focus once locked onto prey, intelligence combined with independence, and minimal self-preservation instinct. They were bred to never back down from a fight, even against larger predators.

Why Do Jack Russell Terriers Have These Behaviour Problems?

Your Jack Russell isn't being difficult. They're still used for hunting in some areas, but most are now companion dogs living in homes without any hunting outlets.

Their working genetics remain absolutely intact - they still have the drive to dig, chase, and work for 10+ hours. The mismatch between their genetic needs and modern pet life creates significant behavioural challenges.

They require more exercise and mental stimulation than almost any breed their size.

Problem 1: Extreme High Energy & Destructiveness

What's happening: Your Jack Russell is constantly bouncing off the walls, destroying furniture, digging up the garden, or seems impossible to tire out.

Why it happens: Jack Russells were bred to hunt foxes for 10+ hours a day with explosive bursts of intensity. Their terrier drive means they need to dig, chase, and 'kill' things to feel fulfilled. Pet life drastically under-employs them, leaving massive amounts of pent-up energy that manifests as destructive behaviour.

The fix: Provide 2+ hours of intense physical activity daily - this is non-negotiable for this breed. Include structured fetch sessions and, if possible, create a dig pit where they're allowed to dig.

Set realistic expectations: They are going to dig. If you don't want a dog that digs, don't get one. Ideally, create a zone where they're allowed to dig, similar to teaching a puppy toilet training.

Exercise is not a behavioural solution, but do not confuse their size for a lack of exercise requirements. They LOVE TO WORK - try to have an outlet for this.

Be very systematic about feeding and make sure they don't hide and stash bones or pig's ears around the house.

Struggling with their energy levels? Jack Russells need more exercise than most people expect. Join our free Skool community to learn structured exercise routines and mental stimulation games specifically for high-energy terriers.

Problem 2: Dog Aggression & Cat Chasing

What's happening: Your Jack Russell shows aggression toward other dogs, chases cats relentlessly, or has a strong prey drive toward small animals.

Why it happens: Jack Russells were bred to fight foxes and other animals underground in confined spaces. They have no fear and intense prey drive toward small animals. Their terrier heritage means they were bred to be dog-aggressive to compete for prey during hunts. They have minimal self-preservation instinct - they'll challenge dogs three times their size without hesitation.

The fix: Never expect them to be dog-park dogs - accept this as a breed limitation and manage accordingly by keeping them on lead in all public areas. Use "controlled parallel play" only with carefully selected, tested dogs that have been screened for compatibility through multiple meetings.

Keep them on lead or long line in all non-secured areas as their prey drive overrides recall when they spot a target - this is breed reality, not training failure.

Create "interrupt and redirect" protocols: when they fixate on inappropriate targets (other dogs, cats). You need to be able to clearly cut through their "tunnel vision."

Consider them non-cat-safe by default unless raised with cats from puppyhood, and even then, supervision is essential.

Dog aggression becoming dangerous? Jack Russells' fearless nature needs careful management. Inside our Skool community, you'll find safe socialisation protocols and can get advice on managing high prey drive during weekly Q&As.

Problem 3: Excessive Barking & Digging

What's happening: Your Jack Russell barks constantly and digs holes everywhere in your garden or home.

Why it happens: Jack Russells were bred to bark underground so hunters could locate them when they'd cornered a fox - prolonged, persistent barking was essential to their job. Digging was their primary method of accessing fox dens, so the urge to dig is deeply hardwired. Both behaviours are primary job functions, not bad habits that can be eliminated.

The fix: Provide a legal dig pit (sandbox or designated yard area with loose soil) and reward all digging that happens there by hiding toys at the bottom for them to excavate.

Teach "quiet" cues but accept that some barking is hardwired. Practice "bark and quiet" protocols where they get the barking out during structured training sessions, then practice turning it off on command.

Create dedicated "earth work" time daily: 15-20 minutes in a dig pit with buried toys or treat-filled containers they must excavate (not always possible for all owners).

Use "bark on command" training: teach them to bark when you say "speak," then teach "quiet," giving you control over the behaviour.

Make sure you have clear consequences for any inappropriate digging. It must be made clear these behaviours are only acceptable during "go" time.

Barking and digging out of control? These are hardwired terrier behaviours. Join our Skool community to learn how to channel these instincts appropriately and get management strategies from other Jack Russell owners.

Is a Jack Russell Terrier Right for a New Owner?

A Jack Russell Terrier might be perfect for you if you're looking for:

A high-energy dog for very active lifestyles - Jack Russells need 1+ hour of intense daily exercise. They're perfect for people who run, hike, or do outdoor activities and want a tough little companion who can keep up.

A big personality in a small package - Despite their small size (5-8kg), Jack Russells have the confidence and attitude of much larger dogs. They're entertaining, bold, and full of character.

An intelligent, independent thinker - These dogs are smart and trainable but think for themselves. If you enjoy working with an independent breed that keeps you on your toes, they're ideal.

A low-maintenance coat - Jack Russells require only weekly brushing and minimal grooming. They're easy to care for in terms of coat maintenance.

A long-lived companion - With a lifespan of 13-16 years, Jack Russells are with you for the long haul. They're generally healthy, hardy dogs who age well with proper care.

If you're ready for extreme energy levels, can provide 2+ hours of daily exercise, and want a fearless little working dog with endless stamina, a Jack Russell Terrier will bring adventure and entertainment to your life.

Get the Full Support System for Your Jack Russell Terrier

This guide gives you real solutions you can start using today. But raising a well-behaved Jack Russell Terrier is an ongoing journey, not a one-time fix.

That's why we created our free Skool community - to give you continuous support every step of the way.

Inside the community, you'll get:

• Weekly live Q&A sessions where you can ask about YOUR specific Jack Russell Terrier and get personalised advice from experienced trainers
• Full breed-specific courses covering everything from puppy raising to advanced behaviour modification
• A supportive community of other Jack Russell Terrier owners who understand exactly what you're going through
• Video demonstrations so you can see techniques in action, not just read about them
• Troubleshooting help when things don't go to plan (because they won't always!)
• Updated resources as we add new courses and training blueprints

Best part? It's completely free. No subscription. No catch. Just dog owners helping dog owners.

Join The Toe Beans Co community today and get the ongoing support you need to build the best relationship with your Jack Russell Terrier.