When looking for your perfect dog, you will find some more popular pure breeds and some less popular mixed breeds. One of the slightly less popular dog choices is the Jack Russell – Australian Shepherd mix.
Coming from two fantastic dog parents, the Jack Russell Terrier and the Australian Shepherd, this puppy has been unfairly forgotten. Not many people are introduced to this cute cross. That’s why it’s necessary to present the Jack & Australian mix in the right light… and we are going to do just that.
Buckle up because we’re going to explore the wonderful creation this dog is, and tell you exactly why this dog is the right one for you…
1. How Does Russell Terrier And Aussie Shepherd Mix Look Like?
Dog genetics work the same way as human genetics, meaning they receive dominant and recessive genes from their parents. Mixing a small breed like the Aussie and the Parson Russell Terrier means that there is no way of telling how big or small your puppy might be when it grows up.
Both parents show they share the same coat colors, such as black, tan, and white, with the Australian Shepherd showing less white. The Australian side of the family can carry different colors in each eye, which is a trait the offspring might inherit.
In some cases, mixed-breeds might look similar to one parent, yet still have the recessive traits of another parent. Also, the dog might resemble both parents at the same time! It’s pretty much playing the genetics lottery here.
Therefore, there are no standard traits for a JRT and Australian Shepherd mix doggy. Unless you pay big money for someone to create you the perfect mix of these two dogs, you’ll end up with whatever Mother Nature gives you. Will it be more like a JRT or an Aussie? Only time will tell.
Still, when choosing this mix puppy, one must think of the general traits the parent dogs have.
The Australian Shepherd is a fairly large dog breed weighing around 35 to 75 pounds, and standing tall at 18 to 23 inches at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller.
The Parson Russell Terriers are small dogs weighing 14 to 18 pounds, and males can reach a height of 10 to 15 inches at the shoulder.
It’s a rather odd combination of two dog breeds, but this isn’t the first time in the canine world that big dogs have mixed with small ones. These are all fairly young designer dogs, and you never know what will crawl out of the doggy kennel. Will it be a complete mix of two breeds or more like one of the parents? You’ll never know until it grows up.
2. Is The Cutest Crossbreed Also Kind?
Both parents, the JRT and the Aussie, are huge on pleasing their master. These pups will jump through fire to get you what you want. Their mix? Couldn’t be better! A JRT and Australian Shepherd mix is truly fond of its owner.
Don’t doubt for a second if this is an adoptable dog. Indeed, the JRT and Aussie mix is quite energetic and frenzy in some cases, but that shouldn’t stop you from adopting. The big energy stocks simply mean more time for exercising.
All in all, this pup is made to be with his family at all times. Leaving him alone for several hours a day isn’t a good idea. They belong with you, and they want to feel like they are part of the pack the whole time.
If this isn’t proof of their affection, what is?
This mixed breed will show you any time how much he enjoys spending time with you. What you need to give in return is nurture in every possible way.
Every dog should experience positive reinforcement and socialization from the earliest period of life. Training in puppyhood is crucial to get an obedient dog in adulthood.
To calm this energetic crossbreed, you’ll need lots of patience and love. It’s not that hard, is it?
3. How Healthy Is This Hybrid Dog Breed?
Every dog can develop significant genetic health problems. It’s only a matter of which breed is prone more or less to them. In the perfect world, a breeder would never let you have a sick puppy or a puppy with serious health conditions.
A good breeder will be open about the health problems a breed is facing and offer full health clearance. Any breeder that avoids this isn’t supposed to be a breeder at all, especially not yours!
As we mentioned before, it’s always a lottery with the mixed breeds. The same goes for health issues. In order to get a clear picture of what your crossbreed might be prone to, first, we have to know which diseases the parents fight.
The JRT is a generally healthy dog, but is still susceptible to many health conditions.
The Australian Shepherd is also a genuinely healthy dog, but it still can develop difficult health conditions.
Keeping in mind their health problems, some of them being quite serious, both dog breeds can lead a fairly long dog life. The average lifespan of a Parson Russell Terrier is 13 to 16 years while the Australian Shepherd lives a bit shorter, 13 to 15 years.
This can only mean that the puppy will have the same lifespan as its parents.
Taking a dog to see the vet regularly is of utmost importance. It’s really not a rule that mixed breeds are healthier than pure breeds. Any dog can be as healthy as a horse if only they receive proper care.
4. Grooming An Australian Shepherd Mix
Once more, we go back to the line: It’s all a lottery!
Grooming a Jack Russel and Australian Shepherd mix can be a piece of cake. This is because the parent dogs aren’t that demanding when it comes to grooming.
Truth be told, the Australian Shepherd is a bit more troublesome. You will have to devote time to grooming at least once a week. Snoop around for good hair brushes, such as the slicker brush or the long tooth rake. You will need one.
The Parson Russell Terriers are a delight for groomers. They don’t need as much trimming as an Australian Shepherd. Brushing them once a week, maybe twice during the shedding season, will be just alright.
Both dog breeds are modest shedders, so don’t expect their puppies to be anything less than this.
Grooming is much more than styling the hair and making the pup look adorable; it’s also a matter of hygiene and health. A matted coat hurts, and a dirty dog can become a sick dog. But, a well-treated dog can only be… A HAPPY DOG.
5. How Much Exercise Does This Mixed Breed Need?
Having in mind their history and their primary job, the answer to our question of the house is PLENTY. Both parent dogs were once working dogs that were designed for herding or hunting. It’s only natural to say that their pups will need a lot of exercising, too.
The Jack Russell – Australian Shepherd mix isn’t built for laying around and catching some Zs. Extremely long walks and hikes are what these dogs absolutely adore! Do we really need to mention playing fetch or tug-o-war?
Another thing your doggy might enjoy is treat puzzles. These are an excellent way of having them think hard to get a treat. They really tickle their intelligent side.
In case you’re away from home all the time, you should either bring your pup with you or don’t pick this breed at all. A long absence will only make your dog depressed.
It’s not that hard to devote time for playing with your pup. After all, you took it into your family, so it’s your responsibility now. Never run from your responsibilities.
6. Can YOU Handle The Training?
As mentioned before, this crossbreed is very intelligent, and it should be a delight to train. Well, it would be if they weren’t so stubborn.
This dog needs a strong trainer; someone who will not slack off with the training, and someone they can’t take advantage of.
Every dog breed, including this one, responds best to positive reinforcement training, meaning praise, a treat, or a belly rub after something is well done means the world to these pups. After all, you will catch more flies with honey than with vinegar, right?
What’s interesting about these dogs is that exercising stimulates them. The more training they get, the easier they will be to train.
In addition, early socialization acts positively on every dog’s training. Make sure you two spend enough time at the dog park playing with other four-legged friends. Exposing your dog to many different people and other dogs will teach them to act the right way around anyone.
Chances are, a well-socialized and trained puppy won’t show signs of aggression.
7. Eating Habits
Every dog that is prone to hip and joint conditions, especially hip and elbow dysplasia, should take fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin supplements.
This doesn’t mean feeding them supplements exclusively. Dogs need nutrient-rich kibbles that will ensure that their daily dose of vitamins, proteins, good fat, and carbs is satisfied.
It’s best if you don’t overfeed these dogs, especially because of the dysplasia issue. Small meals throughout the day are the key to proper feeding.
8. Active Home? No Problem!
This breed thrives in active homes where they have plenty of opportunities to exercise and engage in activities. They can be great companions for runners, hikers, or owners who enjoy outdoor adventures.
If you’re an active person or family, this mix can be a perfect fit.
9. Affectionate And Loyal Companions
Despite their high energy, Jack Russell Australian Shepherd mixes are also affectionate and loyal companions.
They form strong bonds with their family members and can be very loving towards their owners. They enjoy spending time with their families, including children, making them great pets for active households.
10. Prone To Separation Anxiety
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The Jack Russell – Australian Shepherd Mix is an affectionate and loyal companion, but their devotion comes with a downside—they don’t handle being left alone very well. This mix is prone to separation anxiety, a common issue in highly intelligent and people-oriented dogs.
If left alone for long hours, they might resort to excessive barking, destructive chewing, or even attempts to escape.
Their need for companionship means they thrive in homes where someone is around most of the time, or at least where they receive plenty of mental and physical stimulation. A tired dog is a happy dog, so making sure they get plenty of exercise before you leave can help minimize stress.
Puzzle toys, interactive feeders, or even a familiar-scented blanket can also provide comfort. However, if their anxiety becomes extreme, professional training or even doggy daycare might be the best solution.
11. Can Be Vocal
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Barking is another trait you’ll need to be prepared for. This hybrid comes from two naturally vocal breeds, so don’t be surprised if your pup has something to say about everything.
Jack Russells are known for their sharp, high-energy barking, originally meant to alert hunters, while Australian Shepherds use barking as part of their herding instincts. This means your dog might bark to alert you of strangers, express excitement, or simply get your attention.
If they’re not given enough stimulation, barking can quickly become excessive, especially if they’re left alone for too long.
The good news? With proper training, barking can be managed. Teaching the “quiet” command and rewarding calm behavior works wonders, and exposing them to common triggers, like doorbells or passing strangers, can help desensitize them.
Keeping them busy with games, training sessions, or interactive toys can also cut down on nuisance barking. While you probably won’t eliminate barking completely, you can certainly teach them when it’s appropriate—after all, no one wants a dog that sounds the alarm every time the wind blows!