Successfully Training A Jack Russell

 

Do You Really Need To Train A Jack Russell?

Some people don't like to train their pets. They want a dog that's easy to get along with and obedient from the get-go, and if that's the case then this particular breed probably isn't for you - you really do need know how to train a Jack Russell correctly. These energetic, garrulous, and rambunctious dogs can be a bit much when left untrained, but fortunately there are steps owners can take.

Jack Russell Training - First Steps

It's never too early to begin training your Jack Russell, even if it's their first day in their new home. Jacks are incredibly smart and can respond to training very quickly, so early exposure to training will provide early results. Begin by organizing their days and the exact times they should eat, play, and sleep; then move on to housebreaking and other obedience issues. The best training incorporates a mixture of scrutiny, positive reinforcement, and a focus on simple tasks.

Learning Words

"No" and "good" should be the first two words you teach your puppy. Tell your dog "no" directly after he does something undesirable, if you wait too long afterwards he won't be able to make the connection. You need respect from them, so it's also important to assert your dominance in order to train your Jack effectively.

Socialisation

Something that can make all the difference in your Jack Russell's overall behavior is socialization at an early age. Their protective instincts can cause Jacks to become rather aggressive around other dogs, but this tendency will subside if they're socialized early enough. Obedience classes are a great place for your dog to interact with his peers, and so are parks or even visits with dog-owning friends.

Hold Their Focus

While Jacks are very smart and intuitive, they also bore very easily. If you lose your dog's focus, you'll have an awfully hard time training him, so interesting and engaging training tactics or essential to effective training. This can easily be achieved by keeping training sessions brief and including plenty of rewards and praise when they do things right - Jack Russells learn by association, and if they associate good behaviour with a treat/cuddle (something positive) they'll be more likely to repeat it.

Assert Your Dominance

Dogs are pack animals that always need a dominant figure to look up to, and if they don't have a leader they'll put themselves in that role instead. Of course you can't have your Jack thinking he's ahead of you in the pecking order, so assert your dominance and establish yourself as master of the house. Fortify your authority by setting rules and limitations on things like playing times, eating times, and sleeping times, and be clear about what the expectations and boundaries of acceptable behavior are. Jacks want to know who is in charge, so let them know - you are.

So, how to train a Jack Russell? Start young, get into a routine, command respect, keep them interested and react appropriately. This training process can be a fulfilling and surprisingly simple experience. Take the time to train your Jack Russell and he will love you for a lifetime.