Reputable jack russell terrier breeders ensure that the dogs they produce are healthy and a credit to their breed. They have carefully selected jack russells for their breeding program in an attempt to weed out any faults or illnesses, so that dogs remain strong in both body and mind. Therefore, if you want to be a jack russell owner, you have a responsibility to your jack russell breeder.

What type of responsibilities? It is your job to respect the requests made by jack russell terrier breeders, and know what it means to be a conscientious and good dog owner. Responsibilities include:

Learn everything you can about jack russell terriers (JRT) and share your knowledge with other family members. Before you even make the decision to contact a breeder, you first need to make certain that jacks are the breed for you. Research everything from their history, appearance, and health, to their good, bad, and ugly behavior. Furthermore, your education shouldn't only involve reading about the dog; you should also physically interact with one, and ask other JRT owners about their experience with the breed. Once you are finished with your education, make sure you teach other household members what they should know and expect - especially children!

Understand, acknowledge and accept commitment. Responsible jack russell terrier breeders will not be afraid to tell you that owning a dog is no small commitment, and that it takes patience, time, training, love, and money to care for a jack his entire lifetime. You need to understand that becoming a JRT owner means a commitment of 10-15 years or longer. This is a decade or more of your life that you will be required to care for this pet. You also must acknowledge that you are the dog's primary caregiver, and accept that the pooch is your responsibility. Therefore, if you are buying a dog for your child and are expecting them to take care of it - think again. If you cannot personally take on the responsibility, you should not own a dog.

Honor the breeder's contract. Ethical breeders create an agreement with a purchaser that is made in the form of a contract and must be signed. The conditions will vary depending on the breeder, but to give you an idea, common stipulations include:

• You are not permitted to breed the dog

• The jack russell is to be spayed or neutered if your intention is not to show the dog.

• A veterinarian must be selected based on certain criteria specified by the breeder

• The jack will be provided obedience training

• The owner is to notify and return the dog to the breeder if they are unable to keep him.

Whatever the agreement with jack russell terrier breeders, honor it, as it is for the good of your dog's wellbeing.