How is the temperament of the shorter Jack Russell different from the Parson Jack Russell?
The temperament of the short-legged Jack Russell Terrier is vastly different from the longer-legged, ‘old style’ American Parson Russell Terrier. All JRT’s are eager to please; always ready to play, and enjoy any training time you spend with them. But it seems the smaller, short-legged JR’s are much more amenable to blending in with your family and living in your home. It is the original, older, Irish and English lines that have calmer dispositions and sweeter personalities. As with any dog, who they are introduced to early in life and socialized with, makes a world of difference. If they grow up with another dog, or a cat, they are seen as part of the family and learn the routines of what is acceptable and what is not. They are more easily trainable, very intelligent and have a quick learning curve.
