Jack Chi

The breed Jack Chi has been produced by crossing between the Jack Russell Terrier and the Chihuahua. They are small to medium-sized dogs with a dense coat, short neck, elongated muscular body, large eyes, and a triangular head. Their ears either erect like that of the Chihuahua, or with a curl-over like the terrier parent. This dog typically has a long nose like its Jack parent, and so is the built-up of its body, including the color patterns. However, its coat and the length of its legs are quite similar to that of a Chihuahua. It’s not uncommon for this dog to be shorter than 10 inches at its shoulders. Like the Chihuahua, its muzzle can at times be thinner than the Jack Russell.

Jack Chi Pictures

Temperament and Behavior

Like its parents, the Jack Chi is a very fun-loving, playful, sweet-tempered dog that is friendly to all and sundry, including family members, kids, and other pets. So much so that, it will probably not bark even if there is a stranger at the door. This trait has been a hindrance for them from being a good watchdog.

They enjoy playing with their loved ones, even with other dogs and cats, and have a typical calm attitude. They love to be cuddled by their owners. However, they can suddenly become hyper at times being overly nervous like the Chihuahua.

They are also fond of smelling and would often follow their nose. These active dogs do not get tired easily. They have a prey drive in them for which they would at times chase birds and chipmunks. This dog does not enjoy cold weather.

Care

• Exercise

• Grooming

• Health Problems

Being an active breed, they regularly need lots of exercises. They enjoy playing ball and going out for walks. Take them out for medium to long walks or for jogging. Allow them to play for long hours, without a leash. This should satisfy their playing and preying instincts to a great extent.

The short-haired jack chi doesn’t require intense grooming and maintenance. Brushing them with a hard-bristled brush once a week should be enough to keep its coat smooth and healthy. Also, take care of their teeth regularly.

Although, as a crossbreed dog, the Jack Chis are a hardy breed, they might suffer from a few conditions that are common to their parent breeds. They might be allergic to soy as also might suffer from allergies from tall and fresh cut grasses. Their skin might also be sensitive to insects and insect bites like those from mosquitoes and fleas, and might also suffer from teary eyes. Also be aware of other general dog health issues.

Training

Training the Jack Chi might not be too easy, and in turn might need some patience. Training this breed can be tough and tedious for first-time dog owners. Issues like spatial aggression and separation anxiety might pester your dog at an adult age if properly trained and socialized from an early age.

Be strict but to not be rude. Be assertive so that it accepts you as the leader of its pack. You must hold patience and have enough perseverance to train this little dog. If it is too hectic on your part, you can seek the help of professional obedience schools.

Diet/Feeding

Jack Chis can be picky eaters, but generally are happy to eat what you put out. Care should be taken not to overfeed them as some will eat everything they can and not stop.

These dogs are choosy eaters. Watch carefully what type of food your dog likes to eat, and you can stick to such routines. If you insist on dry dog food, make sure it is high-quality. But your dog might end up eating it all, if they like the food. Sometimes they will just eat everything they can, and will not stop. So be careful not to over-feed them.

Interesting Facts

• During breeding, the Chihuahua is sometimes mixed with the Parsons Russell Terrier, instead of the Jack Russell. Though, both the mixes look alike.
• This breed is even comfortable living on the farm.
• The Jack Chi is known to be a chewer. So it is better to supply them with enough chewable toys so as to avoid the destruction of prized possessions.
• The Jack Chi dogs are amazing at vertical jumping.