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Meet the Jack-A-Ranian: Ready for a Jack Russell Terrier Pomeranian Mix?

The Jack-A-Ranian is an energetic little hybrid dog breed that will certainly keep you laughing and keep you on your toes.

Thinking about adding a Jack-A-Ranian to your household?

This article will help you determine if your lifestyle is a good match for the energy level and temperament of a Jack-A-Ranian.

Jack Russell Terrier Pomeranian Mix
Jack Russell Terrier and Pomeranian Dog

Already brought home a cute little Jack-A-Ranian pup?

Well, then we will also help you plan for the future and make sure that you provide the puppy with the best possible nutrition, training, grooming, and care.

Let’s get started!

What is a Jack-A-Ranian?

A Jack-A-Ranian is a rare type of hybrid dog breed. It is a cross between a Jack Russell Terrier and a Pomeranian.

This mix sometimes occurs naturally and sometimes it is the result of intentional breeding.

The Jack-A-Ranian is a fairly recent creation. The hybrid was developed in the United States within the last few decades primarily for the purpose of companionship.

The Jack-A-Ranian crossbreed is not technically recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) or any other major kennel clubs.

This mix is also sometimes known as a Pom-A-Jack, a Jack Pom or a Pom Jack!

The Jack-A-Ranian History

There is very little information available about the history of the Jack-A-Ranian.

The Jack-A-Ranian probably emerged as part of the “designer dog” trend over the past few years.

During the late 1990s, Americans became enamored with creating different “designer breeds” by combining popular purebred dogs.

The Jack-A-Ranian likely came out of this fad.

However, the Jack-A-Ranian is still a fairly rare hybrid.

There are many other designer breeds that are much more prevalent such as the:

Jack Russell Terrier Characteristics

You can learn a lot about the temperament of the Jack-A-Ranian by studying the characteristics of the two dogs that make up its heritage—the Jack Russell Terrier and the Pomeranian.

For example, the Jack Russell Terrier is a bold and tenacious little terrier that comes from the United Kingdom.

Brown And White Jack Russell Terrier  ()

Jack Russell Terriers are also known as Parson Russell Terriers and the names are used fairly interchangeably.

Jack Russell Terriers are highly intelligent and very active.

These dogs need a lot of exercise, training and mental enrichment.

Jack Russell Terriers are generally not recommended for novice dog owners.

JRTs will often try to chase and kill small creatures such as rats, squirrels, rabbits, hamsters, or other small pets.

Check out this article for more information about the Parson/ Jack Russell Terrier Temperament.

Pomeranian Characteristics

Pomeranians, on the other hand, were bred to be pampered lap dogs.

When you mix a Jack Russell Terrier with another breed like a Pom, it can help tone down the intensity of the Jack Russell Terrier.

Photo of Pomeranian Portrait

Pomeranians are known to be happy, playful, lively and silly. They are very affectionate.

On the downside, they can be extremely vocal, so you should be prepared for barking.

Like many small dogs, they can also be difficult to potty train. You have to be patient and consistent if you own a Pomeranian.

This article can tell you even more about the Pomeranian temperament.

Jack-A-Ranian Temperament

The Jack-A-Ranian temperament is essentially a combination of the Jack Russell Terrier and the Pomeranian personalities.

Of course, it is important to keep in mind that all dogs are individuals, so not all Jack-A-Ranians will have the same traits.

However, in general, these dogs tend to be smart, active, athletic, loyal and brave.

They thrive with plenty of daily exercise and playtime.

Even though they are small, they are hardy little dogs that can keep up on walks, hikes, jogs and other adventures.

Jack-A-Ranians make good companions for active guardians.

Size and Appearance

The Jack-A-Ranian is a cute little dog with an appealing appearance.

Some people think that they have a fox-like appearance.

The typical Jack-A-Ranian height range is between 6 and 10 inches at the withers (shoulders).

The Jack-A-Ranian weight range is between 6 lbs. and 14 lbs. Females are usually smaller than males.

Jack-A-Ranian colors can be tan, brown, black, white, golden, cream or even spotted or speckled.

Their coats are usually short or medium length. We will talk more about Jack-A-Ranian grooming and shedding in the next section.

Jack-A-Ranian Grooming Needs

How should you groom your Jack-A-Ranian?

That is a very good question!

Pomeranians usually have long, fluffy coats.

Jack Russell Terriers usually have either short or wiry fur.

Therefore, the Jack-A-Ranian coat can have a lot of variability.

In general, the Jack-A-Ranian coat is usually short or medium-length. However, it can occasionally be long or wiry.

For grooming, you should brush your Jack-A-Ranian’s coat about once per week to remove dead hair.

You should bathe your Jack Russell Pomeranian mix as needed.

Also, you will want to purchase some basic grooming tools such as brushes, combs, and nail clippers.

You may need to bring your Jack Russell Pomeranian mix to a professional groomer from time to time for a trim. Especially around the sanitary region.

You should also make sure to brush your Jack-A-Ranian’s teeth on a regular basis as this breed is prone to dental disease.

Does the Jack-A-Ranian Shed?

The answer to this question depends a little bit on the individual Jack Russell Pomeranian mix.

Pomeranians have long coats that shed a lot.

Jack Russells have shorter or wiry coats that shed much less.

Therefore, it depends on whether your Jack-A-Ranian inherits more characteristics from its Pomeranian parent or its Jack Russell Parent.

If you adopt one of these dogs, you should be prepared for at least moderate shedding.

Is the Jack-A-Ranian Hypoallergenic?

The Jack Russell Pomeranian mix is unfortunately not considered to be hypoallergenic.

If your Jack-A-Ranian inherits a wiry coat, it probably wouldn’t bother people with allergies too much, but it still wouldn’t be considered fully hypoallergenic.

You can check out this article for a list of hypoallergenic dog breeds.

A Guide to Jack-A-Ranian Training

Like all dogs, your Jack-A-Ranian will need training.

Luckily, Jack Russell Terriers are very smart and trainable. Hopefully, some of these genes will be inherited by your Jack-A-Ranian.

If possible, the best way to start off is by signing up for a puppy socialization class.

Puppy socialization classes are a great way for your puppy to learn important social cues from other dogs.

If you adopt your Jack Russell Pomeranian mix as an adult, you can still give him positive exposure to other dogs through an introduction obedience class.

Make sure you find a trainer that uses positive reinforcement training methods.

Like all dogs, Jack-A-Ranians learn best through science-based, reward-based training.

Avoid trainers that use force, pain, punishment or dominance. Never use painful training tools like shock collars or pinch collars on your Jack-A-Ranian.

Positive reinforcement training is more effective, humane, and enjoyable for your pet and for you.

Jack-A-Ranians excel at canine sports! After you finish basic obedience training, you can get involved in more advanced activities such as agility, flyball, disc dog, dirt dog, nosework, and much more!

Helpful Dog Training Resource:

For help with training your dog, you should take a look at The Online Dog Trainer by Doggy Dan. Doggy Dan is an expert Dog Trainer based in New Zealand. His online resource contains Hundreds of Excellent Dog Training Videos that will take you step-by-step through the process of developing a healthy, happy well-behaved dog.

Staying Healthy: Jack-A-Ranian Health Issues

Veterinary care is a very important part of having a pet.

Like all pets, your Jack Russell Terrier Pomeranian mix should visit a veterinarian at least once per year for a checkup and annual vaccinations such as distemper, rabies, parvo and bordatella.

All purebred dog breeds are prone to certain genetic conditions.

Luckily, mixed breed dogs tend to be healthier because they come from a wider gene pool.

Still, it is best to familiarize yourself with the following medical conditions that are common in Jack Russell Terriers and Pomeranians:

Talk with your vet about the symptoms and treatments for these diseases just in case your Jack-A-Ranian comes down with one of these.

You can keep your Jack Russell Pomeranian mix as healthy as possible by feeding him a good diet, giving him daily exercise, and keeping him up to date on flea, tick and heartworm prevention at all times.

Helpful Dog Health Resource:

Important Note: Few things are more important than our Health. It's no different with our Dogs Health. Some visits (and money) to your vet can be avoided if only you know what to do when your dog is ill. The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health is the answer. No dog owner should be without this handy guide. It's no substitute for your vet but it will Save you Money and Heartache. This Dog Health Guide will help you quickly understand and recognize symptoms before they become a serious problem for your dog. Click Here to see if you agree.

Jack Russell Pomeranian Mix Nutrition

What type of dog food should you feed your Jack-A-Ranian?

There are so many different options on the market it can be overwhelming.

Talk with your vet about the best nutritional options for your dog.

Your vet will likely recommend a high-quality dog food without filler ingredients such as corn or animal by-products.

Your vet might even recommend a home cooked food or a raw diet.

Jack-A-Ranian Lifespan

What is the life expectancy for your Jack Russell Terrier Pomeranian mix?

Both Jack Russell Terriers and Pomeranians can live to be pretty old!

With good care and nutrition, it is possible for your Jack-A-Ranian to live to be 14 or 15-years-old, or possibly even older!

Jack-A-Ranian Rescue and Adoption

Do you think the Jack-A-Ranian might be the perfect pet for you?

In this next section, we will talk about the different options for finding a Jack Russell Terrier Pomeranian mix to add to your household.

A great way to acquire a new pet is through adoption.

There are so many great dogs in shelters and rescue groups that are looking for loving families.

How to Find a Jack-A-Ranian to Adopt

Visit your local animal shelter or humane society and let them know that you are searching for a Jack Russell Pomeranian mix.

Even if they do not have one at that time, they can keep your name on file for the future.

Another option is to work with a rescue group. There are many small rescue organizations that specialize in one particular breed or mix.

Your local shelter may have a list of rescue groups in your area, and you can also search for them online.

The internet is a great tool for finding a dog to adopt. For example, Petfinder.com will allow you to search for adoptable pets by breed, size, age, and many other characteristics.

It will even let you set an alert so you will receive an email when a particular type of dog becomes available near you!

In addition to Petfinder.com, also check out Adoptapet.com, Getyourpet.com and rescue pages on Facebook.

Jack-A-Ranian for Sale from a Reputable Breeder

Since the Jack Russell Terrier Pomeranian mix is a mixed breed dog and not a purebred dog, it may be tough to find this kind of dog for sale from a breeder.

When it comes to mixed-breed dogs, adoption is usually the best route.

However, it is possible that you might find a Jack-A-Ranian for sale from a breeder.

If you do, take some time to really get to know the breeder and make sure they are an ethical, responsible breeder.

Sadly, there are lots of unscrupulous breeders out there that are simply trying to make money by breeding as many puppies as possible.

The best way to assess a breeder is to ask to visit the breeder’s property in person.

Make sure that the dogs are being kept as pets in humane conditions.

They should not be outdoors or in overcrowded conditions. Ask to see the documentation of medical records and AKC papers.

Never buy Jack-A-Ranian puppies over the internet or from a pet store. These puppies sometimes come from puppy mills or backyard breeders.

How Much Does a Jack-A-Ranian Cost?

The cost of this breed can vary widely.

For example, it will depend on whether you adopt a Jack-A-Ranian or whether you purchase a Jack Russell Pomeranian mix puppy from a breeder.

Adoption is the less expensive route.

Adoption fees are usually between $75 and $300. This fee usually includes basic vet services like spay/neuter, vaccines, and a microchip.

When you purchase a designer breed from a breeder, you should expect to pay at least $1000. In fact, it’s not unusual for certain designer dogs to sell over $3000- $5000 or sometimes even more.

Thank you for reading about the Jack-A-Ranian! We hope that this article has given you a better sense of this unique mix.