Jack Russell terriers are born to dig. They've been bred and used for years, and indeed still are, to hunt small animals and dig them out of their borrows. The word “terrier,” means, “go to ground.” In addition to being tough and fast on their feet these little dogs are wonderful and energetic digging machines.
If you really love pristine landscaping and having your yard in perfect order don't opt for this breed. Trying to completely change a fundamental behavior like digging in a breed that has it in their blood is not only nearly impossible, but also cruel to the dog.
That's not to say you can't embrace your Jack Russell with all his inborn qualities and still maintain some order in your yard and garden. Here is a look at some options that can help resolve the conflict.
One strategy is a little repellent but works surprisingly well. If your dog insists on digging in a certain restricted area try picking up some of his own poo and putting it in the hole. Sprinkle a little dirt over it and he is very unlikely to dig there again. It's a good plan for a small area but not very practical for the whole yard.
Planting thorny plants such as roses may discourage digging but is also not a complete solution.
You can give up a small area for him to engage in his hobbies. Make an obvious visual border that he can recognize and let him enjoy is own little playground. Provide the material he likes best, maybe sand, to help him understand where it's OK to dig and where it isn't.
You can enforce a complete no digging policy if you're willing to actively supervise all your dog's outdoor time. You will need to be vigilant as an occasional glance out the window won't be enough. Jack Russell’s don't actually need to dig to be happy and well adjusted but it does serve the purpose of helping him blow off steam and use up energy reserves.
If you choose to adopt a no digging at all policy you will need to compensate with at least an hour a day of active time with him in addition to regular walks and play times. This has the advantage of making life a little safer for you Jack as it cuts down on the chances that he'll manage to dig out. This is a real issue with this breed as not only are they good diggers but once on the outside they will chase anything they can and run the risk of being lost. In all cases that a Jack Russell is given even a small amount of unsupervised time out side the fence should have a buried portion that goes below ground level for several inches to prevent him digging under.
Jack Russell’s make wonderful pets for those people who recognize what they're getting into and are willing and able to deal with a really lively and intelligent dog with boundless energy. Sadly they are among the breeds that often end up in a cycle of shelters hoping for a home where they can be themselves. Honestly evaluate your position before you decide on a Jack Russell. If you do decide to go for it just remember who's the boss and enjoy your new best friend. Train him from the beginning and avoid having your Jack Russell Digging up your yard.
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hunt small animals and dig them out of their borrows. The word “terrier,” means, “go to ground.” In addition to being tough and fast on their feet these little dogs are wonderful and energetic digging machines.
