I would get one JRT first, get her fixed at 6 months and wait until she's at least a year old before getting another female JRT. That's what all of the websites say to do in order to have two JRTs of the same sex. Is this true?
And as long as I take her/them for hour-long walks/runs in the mornings and evenings, would she/they be okay in a large apartment with two cats?
The cats would be about 6 years old (they're used to dogs) by the time I would adopt the first JRT puppy; and one is a tom and the other is female, if that makes a difference.
Also, my mother has JRTs and they always play (sweetly) with her cats. Is this rare, though? I read that the hunting instincts of JRTs sometimes make it difficult to mix JRTs and cats.
What do you think? Any *polite* info will be most appreciated. Thanks.
2006-12-27 07:48:13 · 8 answers · asked by clover 1 in Pets ➔ Dogs
I have a JRT that was a rescue dog, and he is a handful. He torments my cats and loves to make messes.
I live in a Townhouse that is 2200 Square feet and he is constantly underfoot. I love him to death, but would never get another JRT unless I had a yard for them.
They can be aggressive toward other dogs and cats. They aren't always good with children. Mine likes to play rough and that isn't good for little kids.
They are hyper and very smart! Too smart for their own good sometimes. He is good with the one cat and plays well with her...my Tom tolerates the JRT. When he plays with him they're ok...but from what we have heard it's not usually the case.
Our's is big and bad when it comes to larger dogs, and a real wimp when it come to dogs smaller than him. It's really up to the individual dogs personality.
2006-12-27 07:59:08 · answer #1 · answered by rainysnana 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's rare for JRT's to do well with cats but not unheard of. If you get a JRT puppy, and the cats are already in the home you have a better chance.
As well, apartments aren't the optimal home for JRTs, but if you exercise them as you say you will, they will probably do okay. Having a "sibling" will help wear them out.
We're currently in an apartment - and Succotash (our JRT) gets about 90 minutes of walking/running per day and two weekly trips to the off-leash area at the dog park. Any less exercise and he's a terror, but this seems to keep him lovable.
2006-12-27 07:57:33 · answer #2 · answered by magsgundah 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would say to go with only one dog, because JRTs can sometimes be aggressive with their own sex; even the opposite sex.
It factors a lot with how you raise your JRT though, I have seen the very well behaved ones, but owning one myself, he has massive issues with other male JRTs, not other male/female dogs, just his own kind. He's also neutered (at a young age).
To be safe, go with one (but you still have to be wary about the cats). If you've got the time and patience to train and watch two, go for it. Be prepared to put time and effort into them.
2006-12-27 07:56:02 · answer #3 · answered by K 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would look into 'babysitting' young JRTs before adopting, to see what you may be getting yourself into. High-high-HIGH energy, smart which can equate to getting bored easily which can equate destructive, and very territorial. Must be socialized at a young age or they can become nasty biters to anyone not of their 'pack'. JRTs do have a very strong prey drive, so they need to be introduced to kitties as puppies. You are on the right track, it sounds like. Read as much as you can regarding them, you'll need it. Great dogs if you have the stamina.
2006-12-27 08:05:57 · answer #4 · answered by doggzma 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My Mom has a Jack Russell and she is a great dog. She also has cats and the only problem she ever has with her JR is when she gives her a pig ear. Her JR LOVES pig ears and does become very aggressive with those, but that is the only time. Mom did say that she has to put her JR up when she has a lot of company over, but only because the dog will eat everything and makes herself sick. They can be a bit hyper, but her dog is about 5 now and is a lot more calm. Hope this helps. Take care and good luck with the decision.
2006-12-27 07:59:59 · answer #5 · answered by Shelly 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Jack Russell Terriers are very hyper dogs. I can't imagine trying to keep them in an apartment. They are at their best when allowed plenty of time to run. I've yet to see one wear out. I have seen some that are OK indoors but they live on farms are let out often during the day. They can be destructive if left indoors unattended and bored. You may come home and find your couch in tatters.
2006-12-27 07:59:05 · answer #6 · answered by PRS 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You should not put any JR in an apartment, let alone two. These are VERY hyper dogs, even with walks, they will destroy your apartment in boredom. They are usually not good with cats or other small pets, either, as they've been bred for years to chase and kill small furry animals. No offense, but I think this is a very bad idea. You should consider a lap-dog type breed for your apartment, not two terriers.
2006-12-27 07:51:29 · answer #7 · answered by Dreamer 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
As long as you're willing to give the exercise and and attention they need, the size of your living quarters does not matter.
A friend of mine kept FOUR JRTs in her apartment, but she made sure they got enough exercise, and she did agility with them.
2006-12-27 07:54:32 · answer #8 · answered by DaBasset - BYBs kill dogs 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋