Jack Russells are as brainy as they are bold — and if you’ve ever lived with one, you’ll know they’re not afraid to speak their mind or chase a rabbit. Originally bred for the fox hunt, they’re built for action and always on the lookout for their next adventure.
But beneath the boundless energy and terrier tenacity lies a pup that thrives with the right support. Whether you're navigating their strong-willed streak or wondering how to best fuel their curiosity, understanding what drives a Jack Russell can unlock a whole new level of connection.
In this guide, we unpack everything from training tips to temperament quirks, along with the health insights every Jack Russell parent should know.
Read more: Jack Russell breed insights: care, personality & expert tips
Jack Russell temperament and trainability
Jack Russells are spirited and sharp-witted terriers. They thrive in environments that offer stimulation and challenge — but they get bored easily, which can often lead to mischief. These dogs are quick learners, but their independent nature means they don’t always follow instructions.
Their high prey drive and endless curiosity can make recall training especially difficult in off-leash settings. They’re also known to be vocal and persistent — qualities that are charming in moderation but need careful management through training.
Despite their stubborn streak, Jack Russells are eager to engage when training is fun, fast-paced, and filled with reward. Positive reinforcement, consistency, and early training are key to helping them thrive.
Don’t be discouraged if progress takes time. With patience, a playful approach, and clear structure, your Jack Russell can become a focused and obedient companion.
Health considerations that can affect training
Jack Russells are generally a hardy breed, but there are a few health concerns that could impact their training:
Skin sensitivities and allergies: Jack Russells may be prone to skin allergies or sensitivities, leading to itching, redness, or irritation. Such discomfort can distract them during training and affect their well-being. Regular grooming and a diet containing vitamin E, zinc and ingredients with antioxidant properties can help maintain healthy skin.
Joint conditions: Joint issues, including hip dysplasia, can impact a Jack Russell's mobility and willingness to participate in physical activities. Providing a complete and balanced diet with high-quality protein and rich in omega fatty acids, maintaining an appropriate exercise routine and a healthy weight can support your pup's joints.
Sensitive stomachs: Causing diarrhoea, constipation, or gassiness can be uncomfortable and impact your pup’s motivation to learn. Support their digestion with a diet or real food ingredients that’s more digestible than dry food, and look for dietary fibre from fresh vegetables to promote a healthy, diverse and balanced microbiome.
If your Jack Russell seems unresponsive, unusually reactive, or disinterested in learning, it’s worth consulting a vet to rule out health concerns. Adjusting your training style to accommodate any limitations can make all the difference too.
Read more: Understanding your Jack Russell's health issues: how real food can help
How real food fuels your Jack Russell’s focus
Just like us, dogs learn best when they’re feeling healthy, balanced and energised. Diet plays a big role in your pup’s ability to focus, stay calm, and retain information.
Jack Russells benefit from:
Steady energy sources like butternut squash and purple sweet potato, which have a low glycaemic load and help release energy slowly.
Essential fatty acids like DHA and EPA (omega-3s from fish, mussels, and fish oil), which support brain health and development, memory, and learning.
Fresh, bioactive nutrients from ingredients like shiitake mushrooms and blueberries support immunity, skin health, and overall wellbeing.
“A fresh food diet packed with brain-boosting nutrients supports your dog’s ability to learn and adapt. Omega-3s, especially DHA, are critical for memory and cognitive function.”
– Dr Alex England, Lyka Veterinarian, BVetMed MANZCVS (Small Animal Veterinary Practice)
Learn more about Dr Alexander England and his veterinary experience.
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Exercise first for improved focus
For Jack Russells, exercise before training is non-negotiable. These dogs are wired to move, chase, and explore. Without a physical outlet, it’s nearly impossible to capture their full attention.
To burn off excess energy:
Schedule a brisk walk or a fetch session before training.
Offer puzzle toys or games that tap into their hunting instincts.
Keep physical activity safe and controlled to avoid overstimulation.
Once they’ve released that initial burst of energy, your Jack Russell is far more likely to settle into learning mode.
Training tips for Jack Russells
Training a Jack Russell is as rewarding as it is entertaining — their lively personalities make every session an adventure.
Keep sessions short, sweet, and full of positive vibes. Here’s what works best:
Positive reinforcement
This is the gold standard for training. Marking good behaviour with rewards like praise, affection, treats, or continued interaction, teaches your pup how to behave and supports a strong and positive relationship.
Double up on rewards to mark excellent responses from your Jack Russell, like praise and a pat, or praise and a treat.
Find their favourite motivator
Discovering your pup’s hierarchy of high-value rewards is a great way to keep your Jack Russell motivated. Is it a nibble of roast chicken, their favourite squeaky toy, or playtime with you?
Lyka’s Piggy Training Perks are a high-value, low-calorie treat that’s designed to keep your pup motivated and rewarded during training.
Train at the right time
Sometimes dogs don’t have the energy or desire to learn, especially if they’re too tired, too full, or hot and bothered.
Mental enrichment through training can be tiring for dogs, so find the right time to train and stop if you notice your dog starting to lose focus or fatigue.
Stay consistent
Consistency is key to training. Not just in setting your expectations, but in using the same verbal and non-verbal cues.
Be playful and engaging
Dogs are sensitive souls that can pick up on your mood. Keep your sessions fun and your positive energy will be contagious.
Watch their body language
If your pup starts to show signs of stress or tiredness, give them a break. If they’ve reached saturation point, it can be counterproductive to persevere. You can always come back to the training at another point.
Training your Jack Russell puppy
Jack Russell puppies are inquisitive whirlwinds of energy — they’re always on the go and eager to explore.
House training is usually top of the list, followed closely by socialisation and basic obedience cues like sit, stay, and leave it.
What works?
A regular toilet routine
Positive crate training for safe sleep and downtime
Early and controlled socialisation with people, dogs, sounds, places and situations
Jack Russells can be sensitive to harsh corrections, so always stick with force-free methods that build trust and confidence.
Read more: Force-free puppy training: what the experts want you to know
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Training your adult Jack Russell
Just because your Jack Russell’s out of puppyhood doesn’t mean the training stops. In fact, ongoing mental stimulation is essential to keep their mind sharp and behaviour balanced.
This might look like:
Reinforcing polite greetings at the door
Learning new tricks or games
Adjusting to life changes, like moving house
Training for mobility support, like using a ramp in senior years
Dogs have neuroplasticity, meaning their brains adapt and change making them lifelong learners. Keep training light and engaging and celebrate progress, no matter how small.
Read more: Training adult dogs: expert tips to boost learning, brain health & bonding
Real-life insight from Lyka pup parents
Training Jack Russells can be as much fun as it is challenging! For real insight into the world of parenting JRTs, hear from Jessica about her experiences with Max.
“My Jack Russell, Max, is very intelligent so training him inside the house was no problem. However, training him outside of the house was impossible as he just wanted to run around and play! This all changed when we started bringing some of Lyka’s Chicky Chews with us. Now, he will sit at our feet and whine for more, even with other pups playing nearby!”
— Jessica, and Max (he’s on Lyka)
When to call in a trainer or behaviourist
Not sure if your Jack Russell’s quirks are just stubbornness — or something deeper?
A trainer is your go-to for obedience, manners, and routine behaviours. A qualified behaviourist, on the other hand, is best for issues like:
Reactivity
Anxiety or phobias
Aggression
Resource guarding
They work closely with your vet to address underlying causes and create a tailored plan. The earlier you seek support, the easier it is to create lasting change.
“If training your dog is very challenging, it may be worth considering a trainer or a behaviourist. A trainer can help you identify what may be triggering their behaviour and show you how to help your dog cope in those situations. The solution may be as simple as reframing what we expect from our dogs and our behaviours around them.”
— Laura V, qualified dog behaviourist
New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together
Training your Jack Russell is a journey — one that requires consistency, creativity, and compassion. Whether you’re navigating house training with a stubborn puppy or teaching your senior dog new routines, every small win is a step toward a calmer, more connected life together.
And remember, a well-fed brain is a trainable brain. Supporting your Jack Russell’s learning with fresh, real food meals helps unlock their full potential.
Lyka nourishes hundreds of Jack Russells across Australia — from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years — they’re all thriving on Lyka.
