Jack Russell Terrier: An Owner’s Guide. Robert Killick

      I feel well placed to write this foreword and was delighted to have been asked. The first thing that makes me suitable is my Jack Russell experience; everyone knows how demanding they are and to have one is a challenge – well, I have four! Each one is totally different, in your face, bright as a button, ahead of the game and completely beguiling. I would not be without them. Secondly, I am suitable through knowing the author, Robert Killick. For some years we have worked together on dog charity projects at Crufts and it is not only his love of dogs but also his encyclopedic knowledge of them that has enabled him to write seven books. He is the right man to write this book and I commend it to anyone who wants to know the real Jack Russell.

       Bill Roache MBE

Introduction

      The Jack Russell Terrier is one of the most important Terrier breeds because it has scarcely changed since its beginnings 150 years ago. Early photos and paintings show this to be true; indeed a photo of my dishevelled Jack Russell could be the litter brother to Trinity Jim, a famous Jack of around 1901. In this book we will present the quintessential modern Jack Russell from puppyhood through to adulthood.

      I will be using the words ‘Jack Russell’ because the average member of the public does not know or, I suspect, care about the split in the breed. Whether he is called a Parson Russell Terrier or a Jack Russell, the names are synonymous with a happy, small, vibrant dog whose fame has spread through Europe, Australia and America as a worker and showdog.

      Arguments rage about this Terrier, particularly his size, but a real Jack Russell is a running machine, slim, muscular with legs in proportion to his body – the short-legged round Terrier is not a proper Jack Russell.

      Of all the many Terriers I have owned and bred in 35 years, my Jack Russell is the most intelligent and affectionate dog I’ve ever had – his zest for life is remarkable. He is not noisy or quarrelsome but he is self-willed and not easy to train. However, success will reward your patience and kindness. In the home he is good with children, playful and amusing, and, as a bonus, he is a great guard dog – no sound escapes him. As a country dog, he will walk you until you fall over and then want more. As a working Terrier he has no equal, being feisty, courageous and persistent, and yet he is flexible and will be at home in the town or city with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation.

      The breed’s creator, Reverend John (Jack) Russell, was a legend in his lifetime, his Terriers were his legacy and they are a legend in our time.

       Robert Killick