Suggestions for preventing a Jack-russell terrier from pouncing on snakes?

Question

My friend has a 6 yo jack russell terrier which has been bitten twice by brown snakes (one of the most deadliest in Australia) and barely survived both times. However, due to the venom taking effect only a few hours later, the dog has not learnt to associate its near deaths to the snakes and is likely to continue to pounce on snakes in the future. The owner stays in the hills n has a wide open garden. Short of caging the dog (which she is totally aversed to), what could be done? Thanks!!

Answer 1

Jack Russells are bred to kill small animals like snakes and such, so it is instinctual for him to hunt them. I doubt you will be able to break him of this, I'd just keep him supervised when outside.

Answer 2

Those Jack's are great dogs aren't they? However, killing snakes is instinctive for their breed. I had one about 18 years ago and he would bring snakes up into the yard nearly every day. I never tried to break him of this because I myself kill every snake I see. I don't know if this will work, but you may want to use a toy snake to somehow try and discourage the dog from getting near it(make loud noise or use "No" or "Stop" command when he goes up to it.) He is already 6 and set in his ways, so you may never break him. Good Luck.

Answer 3

Most Terriers will always be like this. I have one and they are adventurous dogs. If your friend values her dogs life she should keep him in an enclosure or build a large one where snakes cannot get in.

Answer 4

Nothing. This is instinctive behavior for the dog ( and the snake too) If she won't protect her pet - it's survival of the fittest.

Answer 5

That is there job they will do what they do unless you keep it in the house or in a pen or typed up.

Answer 6

dont let him go so fat