If you want a dog with the happy, energetic, and working nature of the Jack Russell Terrier with the elegance and grace of the Whippet breed, then you should consider getting a Jack Russell Whippet Mix.
Also known as a Jackawhip, Whippet Jack, or Whippet Russell, the Jack Russell Whippet Mix is a cross between a purebred Jack Russell Terrier and a Whippet.
This designer dog is one of a kind and brings the best traits of both parent breeds. It combines the unique features of both parents to create an energetic, charming, and intelligent family companion.
In this post, we delve into the physical characteristics, temperament, training needs, exercise requirements, and health concerns of the Jackawhip.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About The Jack Russell Whippet Mix
| Breed Type: | Mixed Breed/Crossbreed/Designer Dog/Hybrid (Jack Russell and Whippet) |
| Size: | Medium-sized dog |
| Other Names: | Jackawhip, Jack-A-Whip, Whippet Jack, Whip-Russell, Whippet Russell |
| Good Guard Dog: | Yes, if they take after the Jack Russel Parent dog (Whippets, with their gentle temperament and lack of aggression, are not typically considered good guard dogs) |
| Good Watch Dog: | Yes |
| Average Weight: | 14 to 40 pounds (However, each individual dog can vary, and the mix may not necessarily fall within these exact ranges) |
| Average Height: | 12 to 18 inches tall (However, each individual dog can vary, and the mix may not necessarily fall within these exact ranges) |
| Lifespan: | 12 to 16 years |
| Apartment Living: | Yes, provided they receive enough exercise, mental stimulation, time outside, and are not left for long hours |
| Ideal for: | Active individuals or families, Those with experience in handling energetic breeds, People who enjoy outdoor activities, Homes with a secure yard, Families with older children, Those looking for a playful and energetic companion, Owners committed to consistent training, owners without other smaller pets |
| Coat: | Short and Smooth, Single coat |
| Coat colors: | Black, White, Bridle, Tan, Blue, with markings |
| Suitable for first time owners: | It depends, they can be challenging for first-time dog owners due to their high energy levels and intelligence |
| Training: | Moderate difficulty |
| Hypoallergenic: | No, not suitable for people with allergies |
| Shedding: | Moderate to Heavy |
| Grooming Needs: | Brush at least once a week with a bristle brush or a rubber grooming mitt |
| Energy Levels: | High |
| Exercise Needs: | At least 60 to 90 minutes of physical and mental exercise every day is required to prevent destructive behaviors |
| Tolerance to being left alone: | When properly exercised, they can be fine staying alone for 4 to 6 hours |
| Feeding and Diet: | 1 to 1.5 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: | Moderate to High |
| Possible Health Issues: | Hip dysplasia, Patellar luxation, Glaucoma, Cataracts, Progressive retinal atrophy, Allergies, Dental problems, Ear infections, Respiratory issues (more common in Whippets), Obesity |
| Temperament: | Playful, Energetic, Intelligent, Loving, Independent, Stubborn, Affectionate, Alert, Social, Curios, Friendly, High prey drive |
| Cat Friendly: | No |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes, but with proper training and timely socialization |
| Kid Friendly: | This dog is perfect for families with older children (They do need to be watched around smaller kids) |
| Barking Tendencies: | Moderate to High (Training and socialization can help manage and control barking behavior) |
| Prey Drive: | Moderate to High |
| Price: | $800 – $1500 USD, depending on the breeder |
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The Origin and History of the Jack Russell Whippet Mix Dog Breed
To properly understand the Jack Russell Whippet Mix, it’s important to first learn as much as you can about the two parent breeds. Below, we’ll explore the origins of the Jack Russell Terrier and the Whippet.
The Origin of the Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier hails from 19th-century England, which means that this breed has quite a long history. They were originally developed for hunting foxes, so they had to be intelligent, brave, and tenacious.
The Origin of the Whippet Breed
Whippets also originated from England, but their popularity skyrocketed in the 1890s when they were used as race dogs.
Whippets are often considered to be a smaller variation of the Greyhound due to their similar sleek physique. They have tons of energy and a high prey drive.
When it comes to mixed breeds, it can be difficult to figure out what you’re getting. However, Jack Russells and Whippets are quite similar. Both breeds were used for hunting, so they both have a high prey drive.
Other than that, it is difficult to predict what characteristics they may inherit from their parents, including coloration and temperament. With proper training and socialization, however, they can grow into confident, well-mannered family dogs.
Let’s find out more about the Whippet Jack Russell Mix dog.
The Physical Appearance of a Jack Russell Whippet Mix Dog
So, what does a full-grown Jack Russell Whippet Mix look like?
If you know the general appearance of Whippets and Jack Russell Terriers, then it’s quite easy to discern what their crossbreed would look like.
As we’ve mentioned above, Jackawhips inherit their physical characteristics from both parent breeds. They are generally medium-sized dogs, though they are not as large as Whippets.
Most Jackawhips inherit the long, slender legs of the Whippet parent. They also have a slender body with a pointed face and large, brownish eyes.
Their tail might be white and black, but brown ones are not uncommon. Additionally, Jackawhips have erect or semi-flopped ears.
These are very fast dogs that get the swift speed and versatile athleticism of their Whippet parents.
How Big Does a Jack Russell Whippet Mix Get?
Whippet Jack Russels Mixes have an average weight of 14 to 40 pounds and they stand around 12 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder. They are medium-sized dogs with a lean body.
However, the sizes of Jackawhip dogs can vary significantly. Some may have the same stature as either the Whippet or the Jack Russell parent.
Coat and Coat Colors
The coat of a Jackawhip can vary significantly as well. This is because the Jack Russell parents might have three coat varieties (rough, smooth, and broken). The Whippet parent has a short, smooth coat, so a Whippet Jack Russell cross might have a smooth or rough short coat.
When it comes to coloration, this hybrid dog can vary significantly too. Jack Russell Whippet Mixes may come with various colors and markings, including black, white, blue, and bridle with black and/or tan markings.
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Jack Russell Whippet Mix Temperament, Behavior, and Personality Traits
Jack Russel’s Whippet Mixes are energetic, playful, and intelligent dogs that are always ready for the next challenge. They have the lively, adventurous spirit associated with the Jack Russell Terrier parent and the gentle, graceful disposition of the Whippet parent.
They are smart and eager to please, so they respond quickly to training. However, they might also exhibit a stubborn streak due to the Jack Russell Terrier parent’s influence. So, early training and socialization are important. They do best in family settings and establish strong bonds with their owners.
Are Whippet Jack Russells Good With Kids?
Yes! If properly trained and socialized, Jackawhips get along well with kids. However, adult supervision and showing small kids how to interact with your dog are still necessary.
Are Whippet Jack Russells Good Family Pets?
Both the Whippet and the Jack Russel Terrier make great family dogs, so their offspring should be no different. They are very loyal and affectionate dogs that get along well with children.
Are Whippet Jack Russells Good with Other Dogs?
With proper socialization, Jackawhips can do well around other canines. However, this can be challenging when the dog is smaller. Early socialization is always the key!
Are Jack Russell Whippet Mixes Good with Cats and Other Pets?
With proper training and socialization, the Jackawhip can get along well with other pets. However, this designer dog has a high prey drive, so care should be taken when the dog is small.
Many might not get along well with smaller cats, rabbits, and other rodents. So start introducing them to each other early, and supervise them to ensure they don’t harm each other, especially during the early stages.
Are Whippet Jack Russells Good For First-Time Owners?
Yes, Whippet jack russells are a good choice for first-time dog owners provided you have the time to train them and meet their exercise needs.
Do Whippet Jack Russell Dogs Do Well In Apartments?
Yes! The Jackawhip dog’s size and demeanor make it ideal for apartment living, especially if you provide mental stimulation and daily exercise.
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Exercise Requirements
The energetic Jack Russell Whippet Mix needs at least one hour of exercise each day to remain happy and healthy.
Recommended activities include daily walks, jogs, runs, playtime, a game of fetch, and regular trips to the dog park.
Also, keep your dog’s mind engaged with interactive dog toys and games to help prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
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Training
Proper training and socialization are important parts of raising a confident and well-behaved Jack Russell Whippet Mix.
Use positive reinforcement methods like treats, praise, and toys to reward good behavior. That way, you will be able to encourage your pup to repeat desirable behaviors and prevent bad ones.
Also, be consistent with your rewards, commands, and expectations. This will help your dog to learn what you expect of them.
Teach them basic commands such as Come, Sit, and Stay to help you establish yourself as your dog’s leader.
Remember, Jackawhips are sometimes stubborn, so be patient and firm in your training sessions.
If you’re a first-time owner or are facing training challenges, consider hiring a professional dog trainer to help with obedience training.
Shedding Level
So do Whippet Jack Russell Mixes shed a lot?
The answer is no. These are low shedding dogs but they are not hypoallergenic. Regular brushing will help reduce loose hair and keep their coat smooth and healthy.
Grooming and Maintenance
When it comes to brushing, your dog’s grooming requirements will depend on the type of coat they inherit. Smooth-coated Jackawhips have minimal grooming needs while wiry-coated ones will need more regular brushing with a slicker brush to prevent mats from forming.
Otherwise, bathe your Jackawhip as needed, usually every 6 to 8 weeks. Use a mild dog shampoo when bathing your dog to maintain coat health and deodorizing wipes for dogs to keep them clean at all times.
Regularly clean and check their ears to prevent infections and brush their teeth to promote good oral hygiene.
Last but not least, trim your dog’s nails to a reasonable length to avoid discomfort or injury.
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Feeding and Diet
Choose a high-quality dog food that is suitable for your dog’s age, size, health, and activity level. You may want to ask your vet for specific dietary suggestions.
To avoid overfeeding your dog, be careful with portion sizes and meal times. Also, make sure your Jackawhip has access to fresh water during the day to prevent dehydration.
It’s also advisable to provide your dog with wild Alaskan salmon oil and probiotics to help promote joint and coat health.
Common Jackawhip Health Issues
Jack Russell Whippet Mixes have an average lifespan of about 12 to 16 years. To prolong your dog’s lifespan, be sure to take proper care of it.
Unfortunately, any dog can suffer health problems, particularly as they advance in age. Although most health issues are unavoidable, you can still prevent some of them by identifying them at a young age.
Jackawhips are prone to health problems that affect both parent breeds. These include hip dysplasia, cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy, and deafness.
It’s important to keep up with vet check-ups so you can prevent these problems before they become worse.
How Much Does it Cost to Own a Jack Russell Whippet Mix?
You should expect to pay around $800 to $1,500 for a Jack Russell Whippet Mix puppy for sale. The Jack Russell Whippet Mix price will, of course, vary depending on the preferred breeder and your location.
Apart from the cost of a puppy, you need to create the proper living environment for them to ensure their overall happiness and well-being.
While Jack Rusell Whippet Mixes can do well in various living conditions, this dog is ideal for homes with a secure, fenced-in yard where they can play and run around safely.
Keep any hazardous items away from them and dog-proof or puppy-proof your home to avoid potential accidents.
Also, provide your dogs with a comfortable and serene sleeping place where they can rest and sleep undisturbed. The highly comfortable MidWest Folding Crate for intermediate dogs or the Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed would be ideal for your Jackawhip.
Finding Healthy Jack Russell Whippet Mix Puppies for Sale or Adoption
If you’re interested in getting a Jack Russell Whippet Mix puppy, you should explore the resources available to you before buying one from a breeder.
Then, create a list of possible questions to ask breeders to learn more about their breeding programs, training, and guarantees.
Choosing the right breeder to purchase your puppy from is important if you want to get a healthy and high-quality puppy.
The most important thing is to buy from a reputable breeder. Since you’ll live with this dog for many years, you need to shop your Whippet Jack Russell Mix for sale carefully to ensure the purchase of a healthy puppy with a desirable temperament.
Alternatively, you can adopt a Jack Russell Whippet Mix dog from a rescue center or animal shelter near you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Whippet Jack Russell Mix Dogs High Maintenance?
In aspects like exercise requirements, Whippet Jack Russel Mixes can be said to be high-maintenance dogs. However, they have minimal grooming needs due to their low-shedding coats.
Can Whippet Jack Russell Mix Dogs Be Left Alone?
Many Whippet Jack Russel Mixes love spending time alone, but as with most dogs, they can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Whippets, for example, hate being left alone for too long. They establish strong bonds with their masters and can become very stressed if left alone for long hours.
How Long Can a Jack Russell Whippet Mix Be Left Alone?
Some Jackawhips can stay alone for up to 6 to 8 hours on average. If your dog is less than one year old, however, avoid leaving them alone for more than 2 hours. Beyond these timelines, they can develop separation anxiety and destructive behaviors like digging and chewing.
Are Whippet Jack Russell Mixes Aggressive?
No. These mixes inherit the calm and gentle nature of their Whippet parents, so they can get along well with other people and animals.
Are Whippet Jack Russell Mixes Hypoallergenic?
No. Although these dogs do not shed a lot, they are not hypoallergenic.
How Long Do Whippet Jack Russell Mixes Live?
The Jackawhip has an average life expectancy of 12 to 16 years.
Can Whippet Jack Russells Stay Outside In The Cold?
Generally, Whippet Jack Russells can tolerate cold temperatures for 20 to 60 minutes if they are running or playing. However, they can’t stay outside in the cold for long due to their short coats. So consider getting them a blanket when it’s cold outside.
Can Whippet Jack Russells Tolerate Hot Summer Weather?
Whippet Jack Russells generally have a short, smooth coat, so they can stay comfortable in warm weather.
Are Jack Russell Whippet Mixes Hard to Train?
No. Jack Russell Whippet Mixes are smart and eager to please, so training should be easy. They respond best to positive reinforcement training techniques.
Do Whippet Jack Russell Mixes Like To Cuddle?
Many Jack Russells and Whippets are very affectionate, and they enjoy being in the company of their loved ones. So you can expect your Mixed breed dog to enjoy cuddling up to you and other members of your family.
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Is A Whippet Jack Russell Mix Right For You?
A Whippet Jack Russell Mix is a unique, adventurous dog that blends the traits of the energetic Jack Russell Terrier with the elegance of a Whippet. Owning one means a commitment to adequate training, socializing, and exercising them.
Proper care, including daily exercise, a balanced diet, regular grooming, and vet check-ups, is crucial for their happiness and health.
Other Jack Russell Mixes
Love Jack Russels but not sure this particular pup is for you? Check out America’s most popular Jack Russell mix breed dogs.
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