Jack-A-Poo Basics
The Jack-A-Poo is a lively little addition to the family that brings the super-charged energy of a Jack Russell Terrier together with the fun-loving, low-shedding properties of a Toy or Miniature Poodle. While he’s great with kids and is always up for a rigorous game of catch, he doesn’t always do well with other pets and early socialization is important.
The Jack-A-Poo is a mix of Toy or Miniature Poodle and Jack Russell Terrier.
Origin
Because of the rise in popularity of low-shedding dogs, Poodles are often used in the creation of Designer Dogs and this pooch is a classic example of that cross-breeding. The Jack-A-Poo brings together the Miniature Poodle which dates back to 16th century Germany and the Jack Russell terrier that hales from mid-1800’s England.
Pedigree
The Jack-A-Poo does not qualify for registration with the American Kennel Club (AKC) because he is a cross-breed however both parent breeds are members. The Parson Russell Terrier (AKA Jack Russell Terrier) became a member of the AKC’s “terrier” group in 1997 while the Poodle joined the “sporting” group in 1887.
Food/Diet
Your Jack-A-Poo is a smaller to medium sized dog and should be fed a high-quality kibble that reflects his size and activity level. Meals should be spread between 2 to 3 feedings with no fillers such as carbs or grains that may cause him to over-eat to feel full. Because of the Poodle DNA, your Jack-A-Poo may be prone to two digestive diseases: pancreatitis and hemorrhagic gastroenteritis when he hits hit middle age. High fat meals and treats are a big no-no.
A Jack-A-Poo is an energetic pooch who needs regular daily exercise and active play for mental stimulation.
Training
This is one smart little dog with a keen-to-please personality. The terrier in him means he has a feisty, stubborn streak so training will require patience and a firm, consistent approach. Early socialization is important to ensure he knows how to play nice with other animals and is accepting of new faces. As with most dogs, rewards-based training with lots of praise and treats of your choice will net you the best results.
Weight
The weight of a Jack-A-Poo can range between 13 and 25 pounds depending on whether his lineage includes a Toy or Miniature poodle.
Temperament/Behavior
Jack-A-Poos come from two intelligent breeds of dog and make a great family pet due to their affectionate, lively nature. They can have a stubborn side which needs to be addressed during training to ensure he knows his pack leader. This, along with socialization when he is young will help curb the terrier in him and ensure he gets along well with children and other animals. He isn’t keen on being left alone for long periods of time and this, coupled with a high energy level can result in him becoming bored, destructive and barking.
Common Health Problems
Health issues that present in pure-breds can often by-pass a cross of the breed and Jack-A-Poos are not known to suffer from any specific ailment. Medical conditions he may one day inherit from parent breeds could include Addison’s Disease, Von Willebrand’s, patellar luxation and other joint ailments.
Life Expectancy
The average life span of a Jack-A-Poo is 12 to 15 years.
Exercise Requirements
The terrier side of your Jack-A-Poo means he is an energetic pooch who needs regular daily exercise and active play for mental stimulation. Having an active lifestyle is important for this dog has his tendency to become overweight can result in painful joint issues later in life. Because he comes from a breed that wanders, you may want to consider playtime in your own backyard versus a dog park where it may be tough to round him up.
Jack-A-Poos are a great family pet due to their affectionate, lively nature.
Recognized Clubs
Also known as the Jack-A-Doodle, Jackadoodle, Jackpoo, Jackdoodle, Jackapoo and Poojack, the Jack-A-Poo is not recognized by the American Kennel Club however he is recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), Designer Breed Registry (DBR), Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC), International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR)
Coat
The Jack-A-Poos’s coat is typically coarser than that of a Poodle however he did inherit the Poodle’s low-shedding characteristics which make him relatively low maintenance. Twice weekly brushing should be sufficient for this dog with professional grooming every few months to keep him looking his best. He does have floppy ears so inspection and cleaning to remove debris can prevent infection should be conducted at the same time he is brushed.
Puppies
Jack-A-Poo puppies are tiny bundles of energy and need early obedience training and socialization. Some may have chewing issues between 6-12 months of age so be prepared to load up on fun and interesting chew toys to keep him busy. In spite of the inclination to tire this little firecracker out with walks, he does come from two breeds that experience joint issues so take it easy on his little legs.
Photo credit: steffstarr/Bigstock; eriklam/Bigstock
