The Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mix is a cross between a purebred Jack Russell Terrier and a purebred Australian Shepherd.
Also known as an Aussie Jack, this unique mix combines the characteristics of both parent breeds. However, their appearance will vary depending on the dominant genes.
The Jack Russell Australian Shepherd mix is a compact dog with tons of energy. This mix inherits the energy and alertness of the Aussie and the tenacity and the strong hunting instincts of the Jack Russell Terrier.
In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about this crossbreed, including its history, characteristics, and what you need to add one to your household.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About The Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mix
| Breed Type: | Mixed Breed/Crossbreed/Designer Dog/Hybrid (Jack Russell and Australian Shepherd) |
| Size: | Medium-sized dog |
| Other Names: | Aussie Jack |
| Good Guard Dog: | Yes, especially if they take after the Jack Russell parent dog |
| Good Watch Dog: | Yes |
| Average Weight: | 15 to 45 pounds (Keep in mind that individual dogs may fall outside this range) |
| Average Height: | 10 to 15 inches tall (Keep in mind that individual dogs may fall outside this range) |
| Lifespan: | 13 to 16 years |
| Apartment Living: | Yes, they can adapt to apartment living if provided with sufficient exercise, mental stimulation, and attention |
| Ideal for: | Active Individuals looking for companion dog with a lot of personality, Active families with older children, People seeking a playful and affectionate pet, Experienced Owners, People with time and commitment, People who enjoy regular outdoor activities, people with a fenced yard |
| Coat: | Short, smooth coat like a Jack Russell or the wavy, medium-length coat like an Australian Shepherd (or a combination of both) |
| Coat colors: | Black, white, or tan or multicolored |
| Suitable for first time owners: | No, This dog is best suited to active and experienced dog owners |
| Training: | Easy to train |
| Hypoallergenic: | No, not suitable for people with allergies |
| Shedding: | Moderate to High |
| Grooming Needs: | Brush them at least once or twice per week (brush them more often during the shedding season to help control the amount of loose undercoat) |
| Energy Levels: | High, regular exercise and mental stimulation are important to keep them happy and healthy |
| Exercise Needs: | At least 60 to 90 minutes of physical and mental exercise every day is required to prevent destructive behaviors. However, this will vary depending on your dog’s age, health, and general fitness |
| Tolerance to being left alone: | Must not be left alone for longer than 4 to 6 hours |
| Feeding and Diet: | 1.5 to 2 3/4 cups of high quality dog food divided into 2 or 3 meals. Of course, this amount varies depending on the dog’s age, size, and activity level |
| Maintenance: | When it comes to grooming they are moderate maintenance dogs. However they have incredibly high levels of energy, requiring active training and exercise |
| Possible Health Issues: | Hypothyroidism, Hip dysplasia, Epilepsy, Allergies, Dental issues, Deafness, and Eye problems |
| Temperament: | Energetic, Intelligent, Playful, Alert, Courageous, Loyal, Affectionate, Curious, Independent, Stubborn |
| Cat Friendly: | No. Has high prey drive, can learn to coexist with other pets through early socialization |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes, provided they are properly socialized and trained |
| Kid Friendly: | Yes, They make great companions and playmates for older active children (They do need to be watched around smaller kids) |
| Barking Tendencies: | High |
| Prey Drive: | High |
| Price: | $600 – $2000 USD, depending on the breeder |
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What is an Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix Called?
An Australian Shepherd Jack Russel Mix is also called an Aussie Jack.
The Origin and History of the Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mix
To better understand what an Aussie Jack looks or how it behaves like, we need to consider the historical backgrounds of both parent breeds.
The Origin of the Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier (or Parson Russell) was bred in Southern England in the 1800s by a man named Parson John Russell.
He wanted to develop a small, working Terrier for hunting foxes.
He definitely achieved this goal because the Jack Russell became a trustworthy hunting companion.
The popularity of the Jack Russell rose in the 1930s and numerous breed clubs were established, including the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America and the Jack Russell Terrier Association of America.
The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2000. Today, this small, energetic dog has a loyal fan base and remains a popular companion dog due to its small size and huge personality.
The Origin of the Australian Shepherd
Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd hails from the United States.
Basque Shepherds from Australia arrived in America in the 1800s, carrying their sheepdogs.
Those sheepdogs were carefully developed for their intelligence and strong work ethic, soon becoming popular among ranchers and farmers in america.
These were refined in the United States, providing us with the modern-day Australian Shepherd. Over time, these dogs have been widely used in search and rescue missions and as therapy dogs and guide dogs.
What Does an Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix Look Like?
It’s difficult to predict the appearance of a Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mix because individual puppies will inherit different features from each parent breed.
This hybrid dog may inherit the large floppy ears of the Australian Shepherd or the erect ears of the Jack Russell parent. They have bright, expressive eyes that showcases the alertness and intelligence of both parents. In general, the Aussie Jack has a compact body with a unique, delightfull appearance.
The Aussie Jack pictures on this page should give you a good idea of what this designer dog looks like.
How Big Does an Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix Get?
When selecting a dog, it’s important to consider its size. The Aussie Jack is a unique combination of two differently sized dogs.
The Australian Shepherd is a relatively large dog standing at 18-23 inches tall and weighing about 35 to 75 pounds at maturity. The Jack Russell Terrier, on the other hand, is a small dog standing between 10 and 15 inches tall and weighing around 14 to 18 pounds.
On average, The Aussie Jack will grow to be a medium sized pup weighing between 15 and 45 pounds and standing between 10 and 15 inches tall.
Coat and Coat Colors
The Australian Shepherd Jack Russell mix is an interesting mix of two popular breeds. It can inherit the short, smooth coat of a Jack Russell or the wavy, medium-length coat of the Australian Shepherd. Some puppies will inherit a combination of both.
When it comes to color, the Aussie Jack will have various shades, including black, white, or tan of a Jack Russel and the multicolored merle of an Aussie.
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Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mix Temperament, Behavior, and Personality Traits
The Aussie Jack is an intelligent dog with natural hunting instincts. Both parent breeds are smart and eager to please, making them easy to train.
This mix is also full of energy and enjoys exploring their immediate surroundings. If bored, they can develop destructive behaviors, so physical exercise and mental stimulation are equally important.
Aussie Jacks are also known to be friendly, loyal, and affectionate dogs who love being near their owners.
Due to Jack Russels influence, this mix can also be quite stubborn. However, their eagerness to please helps to counteract this.
Their loyal and loving personality makes them great family companions.
Are Australian Shepherd Jack Russells Good With Kids?
Yes! Aussie Jacks are fond of children and enjoy playing with them. However, their playful and energetic nature can make them too much for small kids.
Always be sure to supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to ensure they do not hurt each other.
Are Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mixes Good with Other Dogs?
Yes! Aussie Jacks are normally good with other canines, when socialized from a young age.
Are Jack Russell Australian Shepherd mixes Good with Cats and Other Pets?
If you have cats or other pets at home, the Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mix can get along fairly well with them.
However, they can also have a strong prey drive toward cats and other small pets due to their Jack Russell Terrier roots. Timely socialization and gradual introductions can help them get along well with other household pets.
Do Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix Dogs Do Well In Apartments?
If their exercise needs are met, they can do well in apartments and homes with spacious yards.
Due to their energy, intelligence, and loving nature, Australian Shepherd Jack Russell dogs can be fantastic pets for active families.
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Exercise Requirements
The Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix is an energetic and playful dog that inherits its high energy from both the Australian Shepherd and the Jack Russell.
They require both physical exercises and mental stimulation to keep them healthy while preventing behavioral issues.
Generally, Aussie Jacks require at least 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise. Recommended physical activities include walks, playtime, runs, hikes, and fetch.
Obedience training, playtime, and interactive dog toys will help keep their intelligent brains well stimulated.
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Training
Thanks to their intelligence and willingness to please, Aussie Jacks are easy to train.
However, the Jack Russell Terrier side can make them stubborn. Early training, positive reinforcement, and consistency will play a major role in raising a well-mannered Australian Shepherd Jack Russell mix.
Hold short training sessions and make them as interesting as possible. These dogs respond best to positive reinforcement training methods, including treats and praises.
Proper socialization is also important for your Aussie Jack. Be sure to introduce them to as many different people, animals, and surroundings as possible from a young age.
We also recommend choosing a dedicated spot for training your Aussie Jack puppy. A high-quality dog crate like the Midwest Folding Crate for Intermediate Dogs is a wonderful option for housetraining your puppy.
Your dog will also need its own private space and the Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed will make them feel safe and comfortable as part of their new home.
Do Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mixes Shed a Lot?
Both parent breeds are moderate shedders, so their offspring will also shed moderately.
Grooming and Maintenance
Grooming and maintaining an Australian Shepherd and Jack Russell Mix dog can be a breeze. Both parent breeds aren’t too demanding in terms of grooming.
Australian Shepherds require brushing at least once a week. Jack Russells, on the other hand, are easy to maintain and don’t need as much grooming as Aussies.
This mix sheds a moderate amount, but if your puppy takes after the Australian Shepherd, he will have a long coat that will require weekly brushing to avoid tangles or mats. However, we recommend brushing them more frequently during the heavier shedding seasons.
This mix doesn’t require frequent bathing; once a month is enough. Otherwise, you should wipe their coat clean with deodorizing wipes for dogs.
We also recommend cleaning his ears regularly to prevent mites and ear infections.
Lastly, brush their teeth to prevent dental issues and trim their nails to a decent length to prevent injury or discomfort.
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Feeding and Diet
Be sure to choose a high-quality dog food, formulated specifically for medium-sized dogs.
We also recommend adding meat, fruits, and vegetables to their regular diet to ensure they receive their fair share of proteins, good fats, and vitamins.
It’s a good idea to avoid overfeeding this pooch because they are prone to hip dysplasia. The best thing to do is to give them small, regular meals each day.
Dogs that are prone to joint and hip issues should also take probiotics and wild Alaskan salmon oil. However, this doesn’t mean giving them these supplements only. Aussie Jacks require a balanced diet that’s rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Last but not least, give your pup access to plenty of fresh water every day.
Lifespan
The average lifespan of a Jack Russell Aussie mix is 13 to 16 years. With proper care and regular vet checkups, your mixed breed dog will offer you lots of love, fun, and companionship for years to come.
Common Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix Health Issues
In order to know what health problems your Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix might be vulnerable to, we need to familiarize ourselves with the conditions that affect both parents.
The Aussie is generally a healthy breed, but it can still develop diseases such as:
- Allergies
- Deafness
- Epilepsy
- Eye diseases
- Hip dysplasia
- Heart disease
- Hypothyroidism
- Skin infections
- Osteochondritis dissecans
The Jack Russell Terrier is also a relatively healthy breed, but is still prone to health issues such as:
- Ataxia
- Cataracts
- Deafness
- Legg-Calve-Perthes syndrome
- Myasthenia gravis
- Patellar luxation
- Von Willebrand’s disease
As you can see, an Aussie Jack is most likely to develop health conditions that affect both Australian Shepherds and Jack Russels, including thyroid problems, hip dysplasia, deafness, and eye problems.
Regular exercises and a balanced diet are vital to keep your mix happy and healthy.
We also recommend keeping up with vet check-ups and preventative measures for parasites such as heartworms, fleas, and ticks.
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How Much is an Australian Shepherd and Jack Russell Mix?
For a well-bred Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix, you can expect to pay about $600- $2000. The Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix price varies significantly, depending on the breeder and your location.
Finding Healthy Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mix Puppies for Sale or Adoption
When looking for a healthy Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mix for sale, you should look for reputable breeders and not a puppy.
Word of mouth is a good way to find responsible breeders. Speaking with friends and colleagues is a great way to find previous owners and reputable Aussie Jack breeders near you.
You are unlikely to find well-bred Aussie Jack puppies on commercial websites, so it’s a good idea to do your research before making your final decision.
You can also contact nearby rescue organizations or animal shelters and ask to be put on their waiting lists. You might have to wait for a healthy dog for adoption, but it’s surely worth it.
Avoid backyard breeders and puppy mills. They are known for poorly bred puppies and their unethical practices can be stopped if we don’t support them.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is an Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix a Good Family Dog?
The Aussie Jack is a genuine family dog. They love every member of their family and enjoy spending time with their owners. They get along well with children and other dogs in the household.
Are Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix Dogs High Maintenance?
Yes! Both parent breeds are smart and highly energetic so the Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix will be no different. These paw babies need a lot of exercise every day to remain happy and healthy.
Can Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mix Dogs Be Left Alone?
Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mix Dogs do not manage being left alone for too long. They are very loyal to their owners and can become bored and anxious if they spend a lot of time alone.
How Long Can an Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix be Left Alone?
Australian Shepherd Jack Russel Mixes are sensitive dogs that should never be left alone for longer than 4 hours at a time. Otherwise, they can become bored and develop destructive behavior.
Are Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mixes Hypoallergenic?
No. Unfortunately, Aussie Jacks aren’t hypoallergenic. They do shed moderately, so every Ausie Jack owner should brush them weekly to keep their coat in tiptop condition.
How Long Do Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mixes Live?
The Aussie Jack lifespan ranges from 13 to 16 years.
Are Australian Shepherd Jack Russells Lazy?
No! Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mixes are not lazy dogs. They need ongoing training and daily exercise to prevent destructive behavior like barking, chewing, and digging.
Do Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mixes Bark A Lot?
Yes! Both parent breeds are prone to barking. The Aussie Jack can bark a lot, particularly if they don’t get enough exercise or attention.
Are Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mixes Protective?
Yes! Aussie Jacks are loyal and intelligent dogs that bond well with their family and owners. This makes them protective of their families and territory. They should be well socialized to prevent aggressive behaviors.
Are Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mixes Hard to Train?
No! This mix is considered very smart and easy to train.
Do Jack Russell Australian Shepherd Mixes Like To Cuddle?
Yes! Although Aussie Jacks are naturally protective, they are sweet, cuddly dogs.
Are Australian Shepherd Jack Russells Aggressive?
Odds are, a properly trained and socialized Australian Shepherd Jack Russell puppy won’t be aggressive.
Are Jack Russell Australian Shepherd dogs smart?
Yes! The Aussie Jack is highly intelligent and very easy to train.
Can Jack Russell Australian Shepherds be off leash?
While the Australian Shepherd can be trained off-leash, the Jack Russell Terrier should never be let off-leash when they are outdoors. Since your Aussie Jack has terrier roots, you should strive to keep them on leash whenever they are outdoors if they are not in a securely fenced-in space.
What Are Some Negatives About Jack Russell Australian Shepherds?
- They are very energetic and require active owners.
- They need plenty of metal stimulation.
- They don’t like being left alone.
- They might have a high prey drive due to their Jack Russell heritage.
- They aren’t hypoallergenic.
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Is An Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix Right For You?
The Australian Shepherd Jack Russell Mix is an interesting cross, inheriting a unique combination of features from both the Australian Shepherd and the Jack Russell Terrier.
Their energy, intelligence ,and friendly nature make them a great choice for active families. Due to their energy and exercise needs, they thrive in homes where there’s someone to train and exercise them accordingly.
Other Australian Shepherd Mixes
Love Australian Shepherds but not sure this particular pup is for you? Check out America’s most popular Australian Shepherd mix breed dogs.
1. Australian Shepherd Samoyed Mix
2. Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix
3. Australian Shepherd Doberman Mix
4. Australian Shepherd Beagle Mix
5. Australian Shepherd Rottweiler Mix
6. Australian Shepherd Great Pyrenees Mix
7. Australian Shepherd Border Collie Mix
8. Australian Shepherd Boxer Mix
9. Australian Shepherd Dachshund Mix
10. Australian Shepherd Cocker Spaniel Mix
11. Australian Shepherd Husky Mix
12. Australian Shepherd Rat Terrier Mix
13. Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix
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