I have acquired a JRT puppy but have been reading "horror" stories on US web sites about cat killing, digging, fence jumping terrors. Does anyone have any advice on the raising of a "friendly" JRT? She growls and snaps sometimes and she chases my cats already. should I be worried?
Thanks

Hi guest, in a word, as it stands AT THE MOMENT yes. I can only presume that you did not do a lot of research on the breed before you bought one. They are working terriers and therefore have all the instincts to hunt chase and kill. That is the nature of the breed. However, with a bit of luck and good training to may be able to teach the pup not to chase your cat, but you need to start firm training NOW. If you do not have much experience training dogs, may I suggest you join a training club asap, explain your problem to them , and make your first priority to teach your pup not to chase your cat before bothering about anything else. Wishing you the best of luck

Yes, you should be worried. Firstly you should have bought your puppy from a reputable breeder who socialises there puppies well and also offers an after care and advice service.
I see a lot of dogs come into rescue, primarily because people don't know what they are taking on when they get a puppy, and the breeders don't inform owners. No matter what breed you go into, research the breed, talk to breeders, find a reputable breeder who carries all the health checks testing the parents for PLL, and offers good advice on training.
Caroline Ross (Parson and Jack Russell Rescue)

I recommended this board to the guest, she is a friend. She is trying to join, but is having problems with the board telling her that her cookies didn't work or something....

Leigh?? help! her e mail address is ceecee_willowbark@hotmail.com

She DID check out the breed before aquiring one. She lives in Australia and checked with animal welfare, three breeders and four vets who ALL said that the Australian lines are ok and aren't used for hunting over there.

~Sharon :)