The Jack Russell has always been an animal that
was out of place when it came to shows of appearance and strict
manners. Most breeders of fine hunting Terriers and hunting
enthusiasts themselves had no interest in the standard dog show
and no inclination toward parading their Jack Russell around a
ring in order to be judged on appearance and style alone.
On the other hand a new generation of Jack
Russell owners who were now used to the breed being embraced in
the home had no desire to bring their pets out into the field;
however they were very enthusiastic about showcasing their little
darling for the public as a part the new national phenomenon. The
one thing that the two sides could agree on was that a Jack
Russell was not a dog you could judge on appearance and manners,
but one that could only be proven by tests of skill and endurance.
Although most Jack Russell breeders and
owners were not interested in shows, and therefore had nothing to
do with them, the few Jack Russell's that were entered into dog
shows became a popular feature and continue to be to this day. In
the instances when Jack Russell's do appear in dog shows and skill
trials; rarely are they judged on appearance and form, and more on
their ability to jump, race, retrieve, crawl in tunnels and
overcome obstacles.
It should be noted however that there is
indeed a specified appearance standard for the Jack Russell in
place with the Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club, Jack Russell
Terrier Club of America, and most other dog shows and
organizations. Jack Russell Terriers who do not meet these
requirements are often still allowed to compete in skills events,
but are barred from participating in any dog showing events. The
new heyday that the Jack Russell was enjoying would soon fall down
around its ears.
