Jack Russell Terrier Club of America (JRTCA)

09/03/2026

Myth: A pedigree alone guarantees quality.
Reality: A pedigree is a tool—not a guarantee.

Knowledge, selection, and responsibility determine quality.

That’s what preserves the real Jack Russell Terrier.

Photo Credit: Colleen Reeder

09/02/2026

With the 44th Annual JRTCA National Trial coming up fast let's have everyone share their favorite National Trial memory!

Drop a comment or share a picture with your favorite memory from a past JRTCA National Trial!

Pictured is the JRTCA Office Mascot getting ready for her first time in the conformation ring at Nationals.

09/01/2026

When people think about a Jack Russell Terrier, they often notice the coat, markings, or personality first.

But a working terrier's most important tool is actually its chest.
A terrier can have perfect markings and a beautiful head, but if it can't fit underground, it cannot perform the work it was bred to do.

That's why chest span remains one of the most important evaluations in the JRTCA.

Function before fashion.

Photo Credit: Johnna Oliver

08/28/2026

Who is coming to the 44th JRTCA National Trial this year?!

October 9, 10, & 11 in Boonsboro, MD.

Lots of fun planned for dogs and their owners alike, including a new event this year - MONSTER MAYHEM!

More information and the entry link are on the JRTCA members' website. Contact the office with any questions.

We look forward to seeing you all there, it is bound to be a fun and special time as we celebrate 50 years of the JRTCA!

Let us know in the comments if you're coming and what you are most excited for!

08/27/2026

Behind the scenes of responsible breeding…

Health testing isn’t just a formality.
It’s used to make informed decisions—pairing dogs responsibly to reduce risk.

That’s what preserves the real Jack Russell Terrier.

Photo Credit: Sandie LaVake

08/26/2026

08/26/2026

These little dogs make such a huge impact on our lives in so many ways. Don't know where we would all be without them.

In honor of National Dog Day, show us your favorite picture of your pups in the comments!

Pictured: JRTCA Office mascot

08/25/2026

The JRTCA breed standard calls for a terrier whose body length is in proportion to its height.

Why?
Because balance is critical for agility, endurance, and maneuverability underground.

Terriers that become too square or too long can lose efficiency in movement and function.

The goal is a compact, balanced athlete capable of working all day.
Not extremes.
Balance is beauty in a working terrier.

Photo credit: Ted Ely

08/24/2026

As we celebrate 50 years of the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America, here’s something you might not know…

Jack Russell Terriers rely heavily on their sense of smell. Nose-based games and activities are a great way to engage their natural abilities.

This is what 50 years of preserving a working terrier looks like.

Photo Credit: Lynn Hawley

08/21/2026

What should you look for in a breeder?

A contract that reflects responsibility—not just a transaction.
It should protect the dog, the buyer, and the breeder.

That’s what preserves the real Jack Russell Terrier.

Photo Credit: Michelle Ward