Funny, full of energy, and with lots of personality, the Jack Russell Terrier can also be what we humans call “stubborn.” While dogs are not truly stubborn, Jack Russells can be a challenge to train if they do not have a good relationship with their owner. They may love you, but listening and love are two very different things. It’s not that your dog is stubborn. It may by your Jack Russell doesn’t understand what you are asking or isn’t able to respond in the situation (too distracted). If the reason is he doesn’t understand you, you can remedy that by working on your relationship. Here are three great ways to strengthen your bond with your Jack Russell Terrier so he will be more willing and able to listen to you.
#1 – Learn Your Jack Russell Terrier’s Language
What better way to improve your relationship and deepen your bond than to understand your Jack Russell better? In order to do that, you need to learn how they communicate through body language. Dr. Sophia Yin’s website has a host of free body language posters that can help you learn to speak “dog,” which your JRT will greatly appreciate.
#2 – Training
Not only does it make them a better housemate, training will strengthen your bond with your Jack Russell. When you and your dog train together, you are learning to communicate with each other and that goes a long way to create a lasting bond. As long as you keep training fun and engaging, it will help you strengthen your relationship.
#3 – Play
Play is an easy and fun way to bond with your Jack Russell. Any game she enjoys is fine, just as long as you’re doing it together! Agility trainers encourage play with their students because they have found it creates dogs that listen better and work harder for their owners.
