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jack a poo mixed dog breed pictures 5 scaled - Jack-A-Poo

Jack-A-Poo

The Jack-A-Poo is mixed breed dog–a cross between the Jack Russell Terrier and Poodle dog breeds. Generally the Poodle parent is Miniature or Toy sized, as opposed to Standard. Affectionate, lively, and intelligent, Jack-A-Poos are energetic pups who make great family dogs.

The Jack-A-Poo has many other names, including Jack-A-Doodle, Jackadoodle, Jackdoodle, Jackapoodle, Jack A Poo, Jackapoo, Jack-A-Poodle, Jackpoo, Poojack, and Poo-Jack. They are considered “designer dogs,” bred on purpose to emphasize desirable characteristics from each breed. As always, please adopt if you’re looking to add one of these dogs to your life. You can find them at shelters and breed specific rescues. Remember, when you adopt, you save two lives: the one you bring home and the one you make room for at the rescue.

These little balls of energy would be well-suited to apartment living due to their small-to-medium size, but only if the owner can take them out for plenty of exercise. Otherwise, they might prefer to live in a house that has space for running around. It’s important to give your Jack-A-Poo plenty of attention and keep them stimulated, so their hardworking, clever nature can be used for good–otherwise, they could become destructive and bark a lot. However, these behaviors can be nipped in the bud with early training. If you’re ready for a high-energy friend who wants to be by your side as much as possible, this might be a great pup for you!

FunkyPaw recommends a carrier for traveling with your small Jack-A-Poo. You should also pick up a dog fetch toy to help burn off your pup’s high energy!

Breed Characteristics:

Adaptability

Contrary to popular belief, small size doesn’t necessarily an apartment dog make. Plenty of small dogs are too high-energy and yappy for life in a high-rise. Being quiet, low energy, fairly calm indoors, and polite with the other residents are all good qualities in an apartment dog.

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They’re also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. You’ll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch.

If you’re new to dog parenting, take a look at 101 Dog Tricks and read up on how to train your dog!

Some dogs will let a stern reprimand roll off their backs, while others take even a dirty look to heart. Low-sensitivity dogs, also called “easygoing,” “tolerant,” “resilient,” and even “thick-skinned,” can better handle a noisy, chaotic household, a louder or more assertive owner, and an inconsistent or variable routine. Do you have young kids, throw lots of dinner parties, play in a garage band, or lead a hectic life? Go with a low-sensitivity dog.

Some breeds bond very closely with their family and are more prone to worry or even panic when left alone by their owner. An anxious dog can be very destructive–barking, whining, chewing, and otherwise causing mayhem. These breeds do best when a family member is home during the day or if you can take the dog to work.

Breeds with very short coats and little or no undercoat or body fat, such as Greyhounds, are vulnerable to the cold. Dogs with a low cold tolerance need to live inside in cool climates and should have a jacket or sweater for chilly walks. You can find a great jacket for your dog here!

Dogs with thick, double coats are more vulnerable to overheating. So are breeds with short noses, like Bulldogs or Pugs, since they can’t pant as well to cool themselves off. If you want a heat-sensitive breed, your dog will need to stay indoors with you on warm or humid days, and you’ll need to be extra cautious about exercising your dog in the heat.

All Around Friendliness

Some breeds are independent and aloof, even if they’ve been raised by the same person since puppyhood; others bond closely to one person and are indifferent to everyone else; and some shower the whole family with affection. Breed isn’t the only factor that goes into affection levels; dogs who were raised inside a home with people around feel more comfortable with humans and bond more easily.

See Dogs Less Affectionate with Family

Being gentle with children, sturdy enough to handle the heavy-handed pets and hugs they can dish out, and having a blasé attitude toward running, screaming children are all traits that make a kid-friendly dog. You may be surprised by who’s on that list: Fierce-looking Boxers are considered good with children, as are American Staffordshire Terriers (which are considered Pit Bulls). Small, delicate, and potentially snappy dogs such as Chihuahuas aren’t always so family-friendly.

**All dogs are individuals. Our ratings are generalizations, and they’re not a guarantee of how any breed or individual dog will behave. Dogs from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences, training on how to get along with kids, and personality. No matter what the breed or breed type, all dogs have strong jaws, sharp pointy teeth, and may bite in stressful circumstances. Young children and dogs of any breed should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone together, period.

Friendliness toward dogs and friendliness toward humans are two completely different things. Some dogs may attack or try to dominate other dogs, even if they’re love-bugs with people; others would rather play than fight; and some will turn tail and run. Breed isn’t the only factor. Dogs who lived with their littermates and mother until at least six to eight weeks of age and who spent lots of time playing with other dogs during puppyhood, are more likely to have good canine social skills.

Stranger-friendly dogs will greet guests with wagging tails and nuzzles; others are shy, indifferent, or even aggressive. However, no matter what the breed, a dog who was socialized and exposed to lots of different types, ages, sizes, and shapes of people as a puppy will respond better to strangers as an adult. Remember that even friendly dogs should stay on a good, strong leash  in public!

Health And Grooming Needs

If you’re going to share your home with a dog, you’ll need to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothes and in your house. However, shedding does vary greatly among the breeds. Some dogs shed year-round, some “blow” seasonally, some do both, and some shed hardly at all. If you’re a neatnik, you’ll need to either pick a low-shedding breed or relax your standards. To help keep your home a little cleaner, you can find a great de-shedding tool

Drool-prone dogs may drape ropes of slobber on your arm and leave big, wet spots on your clothes when they come over to say hello. If you’ve got a laid-back attitude toward slobber, fine; but if you’re a neatnik, you may want to choose a dog who rates low in the drool department.

Some breeds are brush-and-go dogs; others require regular bathing, clipping, and other grooming just to stay clean and healthy. Consider whether you have the time and patience for a dog who needs a lot of grooming, or the money to pay someone else to do it.

Due to poor breeding practices, some breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia. This doesn’t mean that every dog of that breed will develop those diseases; it just means that they’re at an increased risk.

If you’re adopting a puppy, it’s a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you’re interested in. You may also want to ask if your shelter or rescue has information about the physical health of your potential pup’s parents and other relatives.

Some breeds have hearty appetites and tend to put on weight easily. As in humans, being overweight can cause health problems in dogs. If you pick a breed that’s prone to packing on pounds, you’ll need to limit treats, make sure they get enough exercise, and measure out their daily food servings into regular meals rather than leaving food out all the time.

Ask your vet about your dog’s diet and what they recommend for feeding your pooch to keep them at a healthy weight. Weight gain can lead to other health issues or worsen problems like arthritis.

Dogs come in all sizes, from the world’s smallest pooch, the Chihuahua, to the towering Great Dane, how much space a dog takes up is a key factor in deciding if they’re compatible with you and your living space. Large dog breeds might seem overpowering and intimidating, but some of them are incredibly sweet! Take a look and find the right sized dog for you!

Trainability

Easy-to-train dogs are more adept at forming an association between a prompt (such as the word “sit”), an action (sitting), and a consequence (getting a treat) very quickly. Other dogs need more time, patience, and repetition during training.

Many breeds are intelligent but approach training with a “What’s in it for me?” attitude, in which case you’ll need to use rewards and games to teach them to want to comply with your requests.

Dogs who were bred for jobs that require decision making, intelligence, and concentration, such as herding livestock, need to exercise their brains, just as dogs who were bred to run all day need to exercise their bodies. If they don’t get the mental stimulation they need, they’ll make their own work–usually with projects you won’t like, such as digging and chewing. Obedience training and interactive dog toys are good ways to give a dog a brain workout, as are dog sports and careers, such as agility and search and rescue.

Common in most breeds during puppyhood and in Retriever breeds at all ages, mouthiness means a tendency to nip, chew, and play-bite (a soft, fairly painless bite that doesn’t puncture the skin). Mouthy dogs are more likely to use their mouths to hold or “herd” their human family members, and they need training to learn that it’s fine to gnaw on chew toys, but not on people. Mouthy breeds tend to really enjoy a game of fetch, as well as a good chew on a toy that’s been stuffed with kibble and treats.

Dogs who were bred to hunt, such as Terriers, have an inborn desire to chase–and sometimes kill–other animals. Anything whizzing by, such as cats, squirrels, and perhaps even cars, can trigger that instinct. Dogs who like to chase need to be leashed or kept in a fenced area when outdoors, and you’ll need a high, secure fence in your yard. These breeds generally aren’t a good fit for homes with smaller pets that can look like prey, such as cats, hamsters, or small dogs. Breeds that were originally used for bird hunting, on the other hand, generally won’t chase, but you’ll probably have a hard time getting their attention when there are birds flying by.

Some breeds sound off more often than others. When choosing a breed, think about how often the dog vocalizes with barks or howls. If you’re considering a hound, would you find their trademark howls musical or maddening? If you’re considering a watchdog, will a city full of suspicious “strangers” put your pup on permanent alert? Will the local wildlife literally drive your dog wild? Do you live in housing with noise restrictions? Do you have neighbors nearby? Then you may wish to choose a quieter dog.

Some breeds are more free-spirited than others. Nordic dogs such as Siberian Huskies were bred to range long distances, and given the chance, they’ll take off after anything that catches their interest. And many hounds simply must follow their noses–or that bunny that just ran across the path–even if it means leaving you behind.

Physical Needs

High-energy dogs are always ready and waiting for action. Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. They need a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation, and they’re more likely to spend time jumping, playing, and investigating any new sights and smells.

Low-energy dogs are the canine equivalent of a couch potato, content to doze the day away. When picking a breed, consider your own activity level and lifestyle, and think about whether you’ll find a frisky, energetic dog invigorating or annoying.

A vigorous dog may or may not have high energy, but everything they do, they do with vigor: they strain on the leash (until you train them not to), try to plow through obstacles, and even eats and drinks with great big gulps. These dynamos need lots of training to learn good manners, and may not be the best fit for a home with young kids or someone who’s elderly or frail. A low-vigor dog, on the other hand, has a more subdued approach to life.

Some breeds do fine with a slow evening stroll around the block. Others need daily, vigorous exercise, especially those that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting.

Without enough exercise, these breeds may put on weight and vent their pent-up energy in ways you don’t like, such as barking, chewing, and digging. Breeds that need a lot of exercise are good for outdoorsy, active people, or those interested in training their dog to compete in a high-energy dog sport, such as agility.

Some dogs are perpetual puppies — always begging for a game — while others are more serious and sedate. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog.

Vital Stats:

Dog Breed Group:Mixed Breed DogsHeight:10 to 16 inchesWeight:13 to 25 poundsLife Span:12 to 15 years

More About This Breed

Highlights

  • The Jack-A-Poo is a mixed breed dog. They are not purebreds like their Jack Russell Terrier or Poodle parents.
  • Jack-A-Poo coat colors include white, black, brown, tan, gray, and blue–and coats can be a mix of these colors. Noses are always black, and eyes are always brown.
  • Grooming is fairly low-maintenance, only necessitating brushing once a week and bathing as needed.
  • Jack-A-Poos can be great with kids, provided they are socialized at an early age. As with all dogs, it’s a good idea to supervise interaction with young children.
  • They can get along well with other dogs and cats, but if early socialization isn’t possible, it may be best to stay a single-pet home. Also, it’s best not to encourage interactions between small animals, like rodents, and Jack-A-Poos, as it may be difficult to stifle their hunter instincts.
  • Jack-A-Poos are at the top of the spectrum for energy and needing exercise. They should have at least 45 to 60 minutes of exercise every day.
  • Early training and socialization is important for all dogs, but especially Jack-A-Poos, given their blend of intelligence with a stubborn streak. This will help to curb their tendency to bark and desensitize them to children, other animals, and strangers.

History

The exact history of the Jack-A-Poo is a mystery, but it’s clear they were part of the worldwide popular trend starting in the 1980s to create Poodle mixes–an effort to emphasize the intelligent, affectionate traits of the Poodle, as well as their hypoallergenic curly fur. This particular mix likely started in the USA.

As for the Jack-A-Poo’s parent breeds, the Poodle is one of the most ancient breeds in the world–beginning in Germany as waterfowl retrievers, but becoming the Poodle breed we know and love now in France. The Jack Russell Terrier came about in the early 1800s–an expert blend of the natural hunting and tracking abilities of the Terrier and the nimbleness that the Jack Russell’s small size enabled.

“Designer dogs,” with these intentional mixes, are still in high demand, meaning they are also available to adopt from shelters, as not everyone who brings home a Jack-A-Poo–or any dog–ends up keeping them, unfortunately. If you want to make a Jack-A-Poo part of your life, please opt to adopt!

Size

Jack-A-Poos can range from small-to-medium in size, depending on how large their parents are, and especially if the Poodle is Toy versus Miniature.

They typically weigh approximately 13 to 25 pounds, and they measure ten to 16 inches tall. There’s no significant difference in the size between males and females.

Personality

Jack-A-Poos are balls of energy who yearn to be helpful and by your side. Early training and socialization is important for all dogs, but especially Jack-A-Poos, given their blend of intelligence with a stubborn streak. This will help to curb their tendency to bark and desensitize them to children, other animals, and strangers. It will also help to teach them appropriate indoor versus outdoor behavior.

Because of their background in hunting and tracking, they have a tendency to want to dig. You can teach them that this is acceptable outdoors, but not inside–or not at all. Though don’t be surprised if they just can’t help themselves from digging a tempting hole outside occasionally.

With boundless energy and love, the Jack-A-Poo needs a family and environment that can provide plenty of opportunity for both. Their smallish size makes that quite versatile, though their Olympian jumping abilities mean fences won’t necessarily keep them contained, and their smaller size may make them a target for predators of the land and air.

Health

Jack-A-Poos are generally pretty healthy dogs. Mixed breeds have a tendency to “breed out” some of the prominent maladies in purebred lines, with genetics selecting the strongest from each side. Also, small dogs tend to live longer than large dogs.

However, there is a possibility of a Jack-A-Poo inheriting health issues from both Jack Russell Terriers and Poodles. Most are mild, but on occasion, some can be serious. The most common issues for Jack-A-Poos include:

  • epilepsy
  • hypothyroidism
  • Addison’s disease
  • Cushing’s disease
  • Von Willebrand’s disease
  • eye issues
  • patellar luxation
  • hip dysplasia
  • bloat
  • skin disorders

Just like with humans, while you can’t always avoid your own genetics, the Jack-a-Poos’ health can be optimized with appropriate diet and exercise.

Care

As with all dogs, you should keep up with your Jack-A-Poo’s regular veterinary checkups to detect any health concerns early. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy.

Jack-A-Poos are at the top of the spectrum for energy and needing exercise. This is good news to combat their tendency for weight gain. They are versatile at either apartment or house lifestyles, due to their smaller size.

They do enjoy time outside for mental and physical stimulation, and long walks and games (agility, catch, etc.) are particularly appealing; they should have 45 to 60 minutes of exercise every day.

A few words of caution for outdoor time: Jack-A-Poos are excellent jumpers, despite their shorter stature, so anything but the highest fences won’t fully contain them. That smaller size could also make them vulnerable to wild predators. Their sense of adventure and wanderlust could send them off running into unfamiliar territory, as well. In short, it’s a good idea to be outside with them, along with keeping them on a leash, when possible.

As with all dogs, it’s a good idea to cut your Jack-A-Poo’s nails or have your groomer cut them about once a month, as well as to check their ears for redness or irritation about once a week. Brushing their teeth a few times a week is also a good idea to promote good dental health. You can ask your vet to show you how to do any of these tasks.

Feeding

An ideal Jack-A-Poo diet should be formulated for a small-to-medium breed with high energy. Dividing the food into two or three meals during the day, as opposed to unlimited access, will help your dog not to overeat.

Because of the Poodle parent’s tendency to develop bloat, it’s a good idea to keep exercise at least 30 to 60 minutes apart from feeding, both before and after. You may need to take them outside to go to the bathroom before that, especially if they are very young or very old. Every dog is different with how quickly they need to go to the bathroom, but the more vigorous exercise should wait till after the safety period.

As with all dogs, the Jack-A-Poo’s dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Jack-A-Poo’s diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs–including weight, energy, and health–to make a specific recommendation.

Coat Color And Grooming

Jack-A-Poos can inherit coats from either the Jack Russell or the Poodle parent, meaning their coats may be straight, short, coarse, curly, or fluffy. Colors include white, black, brown, tan, gray, and blue–and coats can be a mix of these colors. Noses are always black, and eyes are always brown.

Grooming is fairly low-maintenance, only necessitating brushing once a week and bathing as needed. Professional grooming every so often may help the dog look their best, too.

Your Jack-A-Poo’s tolerance to hot and cold weather is going to depend on which parent’s coat they inherit. In general, Jack-A-Poos are pretty tolerant to both heat and cold, but there are a few differences. Poodles do not have an undercoat, which means they tolerate heat more easily and cold less easily. Jack Russell Terriers do have an undercoat.

As with all dogs, watch for heavy panting as a sign of dehydration or even heat stroke–be sure not to keep your dog outside too long if it’s excessively hot. Many small dogs do well with coats or sweaters when it is extra cold or snowy in the winter, so that may be helpful for your Jack-A-Poo, too.

Children And Other Pets

Jack-A-Poos can be great with kids, provided they are socialized at an early age. As with all dogs, it’s a good idea to supervise interaction with young children. Jack-A-Poos can be stubborn and highly energetic, which can make for a good playmate, but it may cause a bit rougher play than either side would be prepared for, if they’re not properly trained and socialized.

When it comes to other pets, Jack-A-Poos can get along well with them, but if early socialization isn’t possible, it may be best to stay a single-pet home. Also, it’s best not to encourage interactions between small animals, like rodents, and Jack-A-Poos, as it may be difficult to stifle their hunter instincts.

As with all dogs, Jack-A-Poos will do best if they have early socialization and training. This will emphasize the loving, loyal traits of your dog, and it can minimize the hunting ancestry. With early socialization, Jack-A-Poos can be great with children and other pets. However, without that early socialization, they may become aggressive.

Rescue Groups

It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Jack-A-Poos because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Jack Russell Terrier or Poodle breed specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:

  • Carolina Poodle Rescue
  • Jacks Galore

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