Jack Tzu Dog Breed

The Jack Tzu is a member of either the Terrier or Toy group of breeds, and is most often used as a companion dog. This crossbreed was probably first bred during the designer dog craze in the U.S. in the 1980s. These dogs are well-suited for families, singles, seniors, or anyone desiring companionship. While fairly versatile with living environments, Jack Tzus will require a good bit of exercise, training, and maintenance.

PROS:

• Intelligent
• Very affectionate
• Low barking tendency
• Great with children
• Good watchdog ability
• Fantastic playmate
• Adaptable to most living situations and climates
• Socializes well with other dogs
• High life expectancy (12-15 years)

CONS:

• Fairly stubborn
• Sheds often, and will require frequent brushing
• Can be difficult to train
• High exercise requirements
• Tendency for bossiness if not taught proper discipline
• Fair amount of health concerns

The Jack Tzu, as a Jack Russell Terrier-Shih Tzu mix, is a small-sized, active crossbreed that often has the body structure of a Jack Russell and the scruffy coat of a Shih Tzu. A bit of Jack Tzu information regarding behavior and intelligence: these dogs are affectionate, playful, and alert, but will usually inherit some of their Shih Tzu parents' stubbornness, and thus will require consistent, firm discipline. Jack Tzus are fairly intelligent, though, and can learn many tricks and commands if their owners teach them with patience and firmness.

Behavior-wise, this crossbreed can be odd: a Jack Tzu might be stubborn and independent about certain tasks, yet will beg for attention at any time--and for any reason. While not necessarily prone to Small Dog Syndrome (fussiness, excitability, and lack of discipline), these dogs will become the house "boss" if not shown their proper place; they will chase smaller pets and try to boss around other dogs--especially larger ones!--unless taught not to do so.

Jack Tzus are small but energetic. These dogs are definitely "busybodies," and will be active indoors or out; the good news is they will be ready for playtime--any time.

Active, intelligent, playful, and often stubborn, the Shih Tzu x Jack Russell temperament is one of affection and pride--and a typical Jack Tzu will have no problem letting its owners know its feelings. These dogs are happy and loyal, but they can have minds of their own, and will not obey their owners unless taught to do so (and the earlier, the better).

And in all honesty, training a Jack Tzu probably won't be easy. These dogs are known for being hardheaded, and might refuse to obey rules or commands; for best results, experts say, begin the training when the dog is a puppy if possible, and use firm, positive, reward-based methods.

Despite their stubbornness, Jack Tzus are loyal and protective, and make fairly good watchdogs. While not overly "yappy" (especially for a small terrier breed), these dogs are very alert, and will normally bark if confronted with an unknown sight or sound.

Jack Tzus are moderately healthy overall and have quite a long lifespan, but unfortunately suffer from quite a few minor health problems. Some structural/skeletal issues:

• Legg-Perthes Disease
• hip dysplasia
• patellar luxation
• dental problems

This crossbreed is also prone to several internal ailments, including:

• allergies
• kidney issues
• umbilical hernias
• eye/ear infections
• reverse sneezing