Jack Russell Terriers are happy-go-lucky, spry little dogs that bring much happiness to their owners. On average, a Jack Russell Terrier can weigh up to 13.5 pounds (6 kilograms) and grow up to approximately 12 inches (30 centimeters) in height. So, here is more about this athletic, lively little breed.
Jack Russell Overview
The Jack Russell Terrier is an adorable little dog that is classically white with black and/or tan markings. They can have a smooth, broken, or rough coat. These dogs are known for being clownish, energetic, and stubborn. They are agile, alert, and sociable, getting along well with strangers and other pets. Jack Russells have stout, muscular little bodies and are very athletically capable, able to jump high. They're great for teaching tricks.
Jack Russell Terrier Size and Growth Chart
In the following chart, we explain what to expect from your Jack Russell monthly. Note that this shows averages, so not every Jack Russell will fit exactly. A vet can determine if your Jack Russell is meeting weight markers. The chart for a Jack Russell reaching about 14 lbs in adult size is as follows: 0 months, 0.5–1 pound, 2–3 inches; 1 month, 1–2 pound, 4–5 inches; 2 months, 2–4 pounds, 5–6 inches; 3 months, 3–5 pounds, 6–7 inches; 4 months, 5–7 pounds, 7–8 inches; 5 months, 7–9 pounds, 8–9.5 inches; 6 months, 8–11 pounds, 9–10.5 inches; 7–9 months, 9–13 pounds, 10–12 inches; 12–24 months, 12–14 pounds, 10–12.5 inches. Source: iheartdogs.com
When Does a Jack Russell Terrier Stop Growing?
A Jack Russell Terrier is considered fully grown by around 12 months of age. Some may stop growing at around 9 months as they're small dogs. They're unlikely to grow much past 1 year.
Factors Affecting the Size of Jack Russell Terrier
Several factors can affect the size of an adult Jack Russell Terrier. Genetics play a big role as dogs often take after their parents. Age also matters as Jack Russells typically stop growing at 12 months, with smaller dogs stopping earlier. Overall health can impact size too, as dogs with certain health conditions may have stunted growth.
Genetics
Genetics are very important in determining a dog's size. If both parents are small, the puppies will likely be small.
Age
Age affects size. Jack Russells usually stop growing at 12 months, and smaller dogs stop earlier than larger ones.
Overall Health
A Jack Russell's health can affect its size. Dogs with health problems may grow more slowly or have stunted growth.
Ideal Diet for Maintaining a Healthy Weight
There are ways to ensure your Jack Russell maintains a healthy weight. Feed appropriate portions, which can be tricky and may require working with a vet as different factors affect calorie needs. Choose age-appropriate recipes, as puppies, adults, and seniors have different dietary requirements. Ensure adequate exercise as Jack Russells are active and need about 60 minutes of exercise a day. Understand your dog's needs as each Jack Russell is different.
Feed Appropriate Portions
Feeding the correct portions is crucial. It can be hard to figure out on your own, and vet advice is helpful as different factors like neutering, exercise, health, and weight affect calorie needs.
Age-Appropriate Recipes
Buying the right diet for your dog's life stage is vital. Puppies need energy-dense diets, adults need recipes to maintain weight, and seniors need ones to account for body changes.
Ensure Adequate Exercise
Jack Russells are active and need enough exercise daily, or they may gain weight quickly. On average, they need about 60 minutes of exercise a day.
Understand Your Dog’s Needs
Understanding your Jack Russell's needs is important as each dog is different due to genetics and environment.
How to Measure Your Jack Russell Terrier
You can measure your Jack Russell for growth and for buying items like harnesses. Measure length from tail base to neck base, neck circumference at the base, chest around the widest part, waist around the thinnest part, height from floor to the highest point of the shoulder blades with the dog standing straight, and weight using a vet scale or by weighing yourself with and without the dog and subtracting.
Conclusion
Now you know what to expect for a Jack Russell Terrier's growth. Different things influence a dog's growth like in people. You can get averages and learn more about the breed.
- Also see: What Were Jack Russell Terriers Bred For? History, Traits & Characteristics
Featured Image Credit: nexusby, Shutterstock
