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What to Feed a Jack Russell? Diet & Feeding Chart

Dr Julia Brassel
Reviewed by:
Dr. Julia Brassel
Veterinarian

If there is one thing you shouldn’t compromise on, it’s your dog’s diet. But when it comes to Jack Russell Terrier food, what and how should you be feeding them? To make things easier and ensure your dog’s well-being, we have created this comprehensive guide on the dos and don’ts of Jack feeding.

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How Much Should I Feed My Jack Russell Each Day?

Jack Russells are small but incredibly active canines and require a daily portion that can provide them with the necessary nutrients to keep up with their energy. But the amount they need to be fed varies depending on their life stage.

Jack Russell Puppies

A Jack Russell puppy should be fed 0.2 kg to 0.3 kg of dog food daily, divided into 3 to 4 meals throughout the day.

Adult Jack Russell

An Adult Jack Russell Terrier should eat a total of 0.3 kg to 0.4 kg daily. To ensure optimum health and to keep it at an ideal weight. You can feed your Jack two meals a day when he’s an adult

Senior Jack Russell

In the case of the Jack Russell Terrier, senior dogs can and should be fed the exact amounts an adult dog would be given.

Pregnant Jack Russells

During the first and second trimesters, a pregnant Jack will experience weight gain but require the same amount of food as an adult dog. Her energy requirements may increase by 30% to 60% during the third trimester, so you can increase how much you feed your Jack Russell accordingly.
 

Raw, Fresh, or Commercial Food: Which is Best for My Dog’s Diet?

While there are different options of raw, fresh and commercial food that you can feed your little Jacky Russell, which form is best?

Overall commercial food is the most convenient way to feed your Jack Russell and provides your dog with a balanced serving of the necessary nutrients. However, most commercial foods can be bland, and your dog can tire from the same old meal, so be sure to switch it up every now and again.

But let’s take a look at the different options:

Raw feeding

A raw food diet is often discouraged due to the potential for there to be harmful pathogens in the food. Dogs love eating meat, so a raw diet can work if the food is properly stored and prepared.

Fresh

A fresh diet can be low-cost and give your pup a lot of nutrients that raw food might not provide, but be sure to stay away from certain foods as they could make your dog sick.

Commercial dog food

Commercial dog foods are a safe and convenient way to feed your dog. However, your Jack Russell Terrier may quickly grow tired of these foods, so be sure to switch it up as often as possible.
 

FAQs

Can I give my Jack Russell treats?

Jacks are a high-energy breed, and treats can be good for training; however, they must be given sparingly. You need to ensure the treats are healthy and dog-specific, as some foods can cause allergic reactions, such as itchy skin.

What Should Jack Russells not eat?

Most dog owners think the list of foods dogs shouldn’t eat ends with chocolate, but this is so far from the truth. Jack Russell Terriers should not eat:

  • grapes
  • raisins
  • onions
  • garlic
  • macadamia nuts
  • hops
  • yeast

Are Jack Russells fussy eaters?

Many Jack Russells can be incredibly selective regarding food, but their owner primarily creates a dog’s eating habits. A Jack may be difficult if presented with ready-made food, but this is where training and implementing variety come in handy. A refusal to eat may also be a sign of food allergy or illness.

How much water does a Jack Russell need?

The amount of exercise, food, and even water you give your dog should be regulated. The average adult Jack Russell Terrier weighs around 6.8 kilograms and should thus drink 340ml (1.4 cups) of water daily. The general rule is that a dog should drink 50 millilitres times its body weight in kilograms. It’s best to leave a fresh bowl of water in an accessible place so that your little pooch and drink as much as they need.
 

Final Thoughts on feeding a Jack Russell

Meeting your dog’s nutritional requirements is an easy way to prevent unnecessary health issues and ensure it lives a long and healthy life. Usually, Jack Russells will eat just about anything you give them, but the odd dog might be a bit picky. It’s best to give your Jack Russell a balanced meal every day using a commercial brand of dog food and an appropriate amount according to their stage of life.

Learn more about: Jack Russell Dog Breed Information

Other helpful information

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