Jack Russell Terriers are typically very lively and energetic, with a real love of exploring the great outdoors. Therefore, a key warning sign that all may not be well, involves the dog being reluctant to exercise and showing decreased agility.
Jack Russell Terriers - Signs of Poor Health
While not all of the following signs necessarily mean that a Jack Russell requires medical treatment from the vet, it is always better to err on the side of caution. For example, if the weather is very warm, it is more likely that the dog will struggle to exercise as much and be more thirsty than usual. In Jack Russell Terrier: An Owner's Guide, Taylor (2009) identifies the following warning signs commonly associated with Jack Russells in poor health:
- Loss of appetite
- Requesting food but not eating
- Eating more without weight increasing
- Sudden weight loss
- Excessive/increased thirst (despite weather not changing)
- Reluctance to exercise
- Limping and holding up paw
- Decreased agility
- Pain on movement
- Discharge from eyes/nose
- Persistent cough
- Bad breath
- Yellowy-brown, cracked or missing skin
- Bleeding, swollen or sore gums
- Persistent scratching or obsessive licking
- Dull coat
- Skin inflammation/abscesses
- Bloated abdomen
- Dragging hindquarters
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- vomiting
Clearly, it is perfectly normal for the Jack Russell Terrier to occasionally vomit, have diarrhoea or constipation from time to time, especially when the dog is prone to eating much of the garden. However, if this is a regular problem then vet care is recommended.
Healthy Jack Russell Terriers
After having looked at warning signs that a Jack Russell Terrier may be suffering from health problems, it is important to also know how to identify signs of a healthy dog. For example, a healthy Jack Russell Terrier will typically have a coat that appears glossy and feels pleasant to the touch, with no signs of sore patches or fleas/lice.
Further signs that a Jack Russell Terrier is healthy, recognised by Taylor (2009) include:
- Bright, alert eyes without discharge, swelling or tear stains
- Cold and damp nose without discharge
- White, smooth teeth
- No missing teeth or inflamed gums
- Claws ending level with the pad
- Firm, muscly body without excess weight
- Responsive ears without unpleasant smell or wax
- Clean anal region without signs of fecal matter on fur
Jack Russell Terriers require regular exercise, stimulation, healthy diet, plenty of water and lots of love and company. Those purchasing older dogs or rescue dogs will need to be ensure that the Jack Russell received all its puppy vaccinations and has since then been getting annual boosters.
As highlighted above, key health warning signs that a Jack Russell Terrier may be in poor health, include skin inflammation, limping, weight loss and reluctance to exercise. In contrast, a healthy Jack Russell will love exercising, enjoy its food and be very agile, lively and alert.
Source:
Taylor, D. (2009) Jack Russell Terrier: An Owner's Guide London: Collins
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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