How Long Do Jack Russell Terriers Live? A Helpful Guide For A Longer Lifespan
There is a common question that people ask before adopting a Jack Russell Terrier dog. It is “How long do Jack Russell Terriers live?”. As a proud owner of two Jack Russells, I can give a simple answer “Yes, Jack Russells live long. They have a long lifespan”
So, how long do Jack Russell Terriers live? What is JRT’s average lifespan? Jack Russell Terriers have a relatively longer lifespan than other small dog breeds. JRTs have an average life expectancy around 14-16 years. Typically, JRTs are a healthy dog breed though they have some severe old age health issues. Therefore, if you properly care for your JRT, you can expect a decent lifespan.
I also hope to share my experience with my two Jack Russells, Shaggy and Lenny. That will be a quick impression of life expectancy, common jack Russell’s health problems, What is the life expectancy of Jack Russell mix, and more.
I have listed the main topics that discuss in this post below. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
What is the average life span of Jack Russell Terrier?
Jack Russell Terriers are one of the healthy and longer-living dog breeds. Their life expectancy is average between 14-16 years. If you plan to adopt a Jack Russell Terrier; Indeed, it is a wise decision. You are going to find a great companion for about One and a half decades.
Jack Russell Terriers are an active, aggressive, and healthy breed. Their life expectancy depends on the nutrition they get, exercise, and timely care of the owner. Therefore, your care for the dog directly affects how long Jack Russell lives.
How long do Jack Russells mix live? Comparing other mix Terriers life span
It is worth knowing how long Jack Russell’s mix breeds live. Therefore, comparing other mix terrier breeds would help you to get a clear idea about the real life expectancy of your lovely dog. The following table explains the compared average life of mix terrier breeds.
Table shows how long do Jack Russell Terrier and other Terrier mix breeds live
| Terrier Breed | Average Life Expectancy | Terrier Breed | Average Life Expectancy |
| Airedale Terrier | 10-12 Years | Miniature Bull Terrier | 11-14 Years |
| American Staffordshire Terrier | 10-15 Years | Norfolk Terrier | 12-15 Years |
| Australian Terrier | 11-13 Years | Norwich Terrier | 12-14 Years |
| Bedlington Terrier | 12-14 Years | Parson Russell Terrier | 13-15 Years |
| Black Russian Terrier | 10-11 Years | Rat Terrier | 15-18 Years |
| Border Terrier | 12-15 Years | Russell Terrier | 13-15 Years |
| Boston Terrier | 13-15 Years | Scottish Terrier | 13-15 Years |
| Bull Terrier | 10-14 Years | Silky Terrier | 12-15 Years |
| Cairn Terrier | 12-15 Years | Skye Terrier | 12-15 Years |
| Cesky Terrier | 12-15 Years | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | 12-14 Years |
| Dandie Dinmont Terrier | 12-15 Years | Tibetan Terrier | 12-15 Years |
| Glen of Imaal Terrier | 10-14 Years | Toy Fox Terrier | 13-14 Years |
| Irish Terrier | 13-15 Years | Welsh Terrier | 12-15 Years |
| Jack Russell Terrier | 13-16 Years | West Highland White Terrier | 13-16 Years |
| Kerry Blue Terrier | 13-15 Years | Wheaten Terrier | 12-15 Years |
| Lakeland Terrier | 12-16 Years | Wire Fox Terrier | 13-14 Years |
| Manchester Terrier | 14-16 Years | Yorkshire Terrier | 13-16 Years |
When is Jack Russell considered as a senior dog?
Jack Russells are small and cute for their entire life. It is challenging to assume a Jack Russell Terriers age by the impression. However, they become moody and lazy when they reach 11-12 years of age.
Their tempers and aggressive attitude get reduced at that age. They tend to be more serious and mature. That is the time when Jack Russell is considered as a senior dog.
What is the average age for a Jack Russell to die?
These lovely dogs can have some health complications in older age, such as partly blinded and deafness. Overall, they will have around 12 years without any significant health complications.
They are a strong and high-tolerance terrier breed. Therefore, mostly it takes more than 12 years on average for a Jack Russell to die.
The proper care and nutrition will support Jack Russell terriers to live up to 16 Years of age.
What Is the Oldest Living Jack Russell?
There is no information about the current oldest living Jack Russell Terrier. However, documented oldest Jack Russell had lived 20 years and 106 days.
It was a Jack Russell terrier born in 1994 named Willie; lived until September 2014 with a loving family in the United Kingdom. Willie, please accept the greetings from Shaggy and Lenny.
What health problems does Jack Russell have? (Jack Russell old age problems)
All dog breeds have common health problems. As a Jack Russell owner, you will want what comes in the future; so, you can prepare for it. Your preparedness will keep your dog healthy and happy.
Partly blindness / Dislocating lenses.
Among the other eye problems that dogs can suffer from, Jack Russells are prone to partial blindness and dislocating lenses. It is called ‘Lens Luxation.’ This problem can be treated completely with surgery. And also, you can use eye drops to control the situation with a Doctor’s prescription.
Gum disease
Gum disease occurs when a tooth’s deep supporting structures are inflamed. The released bacteria from infected gums can spread all over the body and damage the Kidneys and Liver. This condition can be prevented by maintaining your Jack Russell Terriers dental health.
Breathing issues
Breathing problems are more often within the small dog breeds like Jack Russell Terriers. It would be best if you kept them energetic with proper exercises all the time. If the breathing issues or shakings become more compromised, it is advisable to go for surgery.
No one likes to see their lovely pups looking sad or depressed. Therefore, taking action in time is highly advisable.
How long do Jack Russell Terriers live? The answer depends on your care.
We discussed all the information related to the life expectancy of Jack Russell Terriers so far. The exact answer for how long do Jack Russell terriers live is just an average number.
Usually, Jack Russells live happily and playfully for up to 12 years. Therefore, how maximum can Jack Russell live depends on the owner’s care and attention. Significantly, there are few main things needed for a healthy dog, such as;
- Nutrition and Healthy foods
- Exercise
- Early-age training
- Grooming
Jack Russell Terriers are a great life companion and an intelligent family dog you can have in your life. In my experience with Shaggy and Lenny, they tend to be bossy sometimes with your unlimited love and affection.
But, keep in mind to train your Jack Russell well for the maximum obedient result you expect.
I can also assure you that no matter how long do Jack Russell terriers live, they will make that time worth it. They will give you something to remember for your whole life.
Finally, Thank you for reading this post.
“Dog lovers are the most kind-hearted people in the world.”
