Jack Russell terrier crossed with a West Highland Terrier

Question
Hi Carol,

Firstly let me thank you for the hours you must put in to help people like myself.  I have read through allot of the answers you have supplied to other peoples questions but I am wondering if you could help me with a few points;

My partner and I have been looking to get a Jack Russell puppy for a little while now and we have come across a JRT X Westie, do you know anything about this cross breed, specifically any inherent health problems that we should be aware of?

We will be looking to start a family in a few years, will the dog be able to handle the new additions to the family or would a different breed be better for us?  I would hate to get a dog now only to have to re-home it in a few years if there is little chance of it being able to cope with new babies.

We have already got some degu's (a small rodent pet), would we be able to train the puppy to get along with these guys?  I wouldn't expect them to be able to play together but would want the dog to ignore them as much as possible when they are in their cage.

Are you able to let JRT's off the leash, after training, as I have read that you should never let them free as they won't return, I would like a dog that I can train and to let off the leash to play.

Thanks in advance for any help and advice you may be able to offer, and thanks for your time.

Regards
Paul

Answer
Hi Paul,
I apologize for the late response, I was away for a few days.
Unfortunately I'm not well versed in the Westie, but lots of people love and own them.
As far as the degu's -  I would be VERY careful with them. All terriers are vermin hunters, thus the name Terrier (terrain#. Even the best trained terrier will have trouble behaving with rodents around. Just keep them high up and away from the dog #any dog!) You can definitely train them to stay away from them, but I wouldn't trust them alone.

My jack russells all walk with me OFF leash. It takes serious and intense training but is absolutely attainable. You have to train them diligently, but the good thing about Jack Russells is that they WANT to please you and are super smart dogs!!!

You should research Westies to find out about health problems, etc.  Jack Russells health problems include a proneness to allergies. Just make sure you find out about the background of the puppy if you can.  No dog on earth is completely health problem free. You have to find one that you and the dog will be able to live with. Terriers are one of the more healthy breed!
I say go for it!! Good luck and have fun.