Jack Russell Terrier health: what owners should know

Jack Russells are generally robust and long-lived, often reaching 14 or 15. The breed is known to be predisposed to primary lens luxation, patellar luxation, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease of the hip, congenital deafness linked partly to white coat genetics, and inherited forms of ataxia. Responsible breeders DNA-test for lens luxation and the ataxias, have eyes examined, and may BAER-test puppies for hearing.

Keep your terrier lean, brush teeth regularly and stick to routine vet checks. Contact a vet the same day if one eye suddenly looks cloudy, red or painful, or if your dog squints, since lens problems can progress quickly. A persistent skipping gait, a wobbly walk or loss of coordination also warrants a prompt appointment.