Jack Russell Terrier: bathing, clipping and coat care

The Jack Russell Terrier has a short coat. See how we care for it in the salon, how often to visit and what to do at home.

SizeSmall
Weight5–8 kg
Height25–38 cm
CoatShort
SheddingMedium
Jack Russell Terrier
Photo: Wikimedia Commons · CC0 · Wikimedia Commons (cropped)

Breed facts

FCI groupGroup 3: Terriers
OriginUnited Kingdom
Weight5–8 kg
Height25–38 cm
Life expectancy13–16 years

Temperament

Very active, curious and fearless, with plenty of energy. It needs exercise and something to do.

History

Bred in 19th-century England by the Reverend John Russell to hunt foxes.

Fun facts

The name comes from the reverend who bred it: John “Jack” Russell.

The Jack Russell Terrier coat

A short, close coat that is simple to maintain but sheds throughout the year.

There are smooth, broken and rough coat varieties; the rough coat benefits from hand stripping.

What we do in the salon

A full bath with dead-hair removal, nail trimming, ear cleaning and conditioning.

Recommended services

  • Bathabout 1 h

How often?

Bathevery 6 to 8 weeks
Cut / upkeepUsually no cut needed.

Care at home between visits

  1. Brush once a week with a rubber glove or soft-bristle brush.
  2. Dry the skin and folds well after a bath or rain.
  3. Check the skin: a short coat shows any irritation early.
  4. Look after the nails and ears.

Frequently asked questions about the Jack Russell Terrier

Does the Jack Russell Terrier shed a lot?

It sheds moderately. Brushing once or twice a week and a bath with dead-hair removal keeps the home and the coat tidy.

How often should I bring my Jack Russell Terrier to the salon?

In general, a bath every 6 to 8 weeks. Usually no cut needed. It depends on the coat, the cut you like and the condition of the coat: we will advise you at the first visit.

How long do a bath and a clip take?

When you book online, 1 hour is reserved for a bath and 2 hours for a clip, scissor cut or hand stripping. Very dense coats or large breeds may need more time: talk to us.

Does it need clipping?

Usually not: a regular bath with dead-hair removal and weekly brushing is enough.

Weight and height values are approximate and vary from dog to dog. Based on FCI standards and public breed profiles; care text: DogsClub. Last updated: October 2026.