🐶 Dog · short coat

Coat care: Jack Russell Terrier

Weatherproof coat with an undercoat and a hard topcoat, in three varieties – smooth, broken and rough; the predominant colour is white.

The Jack Russell Terrier has a coat with an undercoat and a hard topcoat that protects it from the weather. It comes in three varieties: smooth; “broken”, with some longer hairs on the head, face and legs; and rough, with longer hair. A smooth coat is kept in shape with a weekly rub-down with a soft brush or a rubber grooming glove, while broken and rough coats need brushing and periodic plucking of the dead hair. The coat sheds.

🛁 Bathing

Rarely – only when needed, because soap and water soften the hard terrier coat. Dilute concentrated shampoos according to the label, and towel-dry well after the bath.

🪮 Brushing

Once a week. Smooth coat – rub down with a soft brush or a rubber glove in the direction of the hair. Broken and rough coats – a slicker brush or a comb to remove loose hair and dirt.

🍂 Shedding and coat change

Sheds all year round, and because it has an undercoat, shedding may increase when the seasons change. At those times, rub down a smooth coat more often, and on broken and rough coats remove the dead hair by brushing and hand-stripping.

Tips for home

  • On broken and rough coats the dead hair is traditionally plucked out by hand (hand-stripped); clippers are more convenient at home but can change the look and texture of the coat.
  • Trim the nails once a month.
  • Check the ears weekly for dirt and wax.
  • After walks in the countryside, check the coat for burrs and ticks.

Shampoos and conditioners for Jack Russell Terrier

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Frequently asked questions

How often should I bathe a Jack Russell Terrier?

The Jack Russell Terrier does not need frequent bathing – usually only when it gets dirty. Soap and water soften the hard terrier coat, which protects the dog from moisture and dirt. Dilute the shampoo according to the label and towel-dry the dog well.

Does the Jack Russell Terrier shed?

Yes, the Jack Russell Terrier sheds with all three coat varieties. In broken and rough coats some of the dead hair stays in the coat and is removed by brushing and periodic hand-stripping. A weekly rub-down with a rubber glove or a brush reduces the amount of hair around the home. If you notice patchy thinning of the coat or irritated skin, consult a vet.

What is hand-stripping for a Jack Russell?

Hand-stripping means plucking out the dead topcoat by hand or with a special knife. It is done on broken and rough coats, removes old hair that has not fallen out on its own and preserves the hard texture. A smooth coat does not need hand-stripping. Clipping is easier at home, but it can make the coat softer and change its look.

Care for other breeds

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This advice is general. For skin or ear problems, consult a vet.