Jack Russell Terriers Can Have One of Three Different Coat Types

Jack Russell Terriers are most often recognized by their spunky attitude, small stature, and coat markings. While these adorable dogs often look similar to one another, there can be variances in markings, color, and even coat textures. In fact, there are three different coat textures that are common in the breed including smooth, rough, and broken. Which coat texture does your Jack Russell Terrier have?

Jack Russell Terrier Smooth Coat

These sheen and sleek Jack Russell Terriers are all smooth talk with smooth coats. Spotting a smooth coat on a Jack Russell Terrier is easy because you’ll notice that the coat is consistently short around the face, body, and legs. The coat will also lie all in one direction and is the easiest to care for out of the three coat options.

While the smooth coat looks sleek on the terrier, it should not be soft. Your smooth-coated Jack Russell Terrier should still have coarse hair that will protect it from the elements such as rain and snow.

Jack Russell Terrier Rough Coat

Although their coats are considered coarse, the rough-coated Jack Russell Terriers still have winning personalities. If you have a rough-coated Jack Russell Terrier, you’ll notice that your dog has longer fur covering its entire body. The fur is naturally wiry and straight and often grows in different directions for a textured look. The rough coat can grow from one to two inches long and should protect your terrier from all elements.

While the rough-coated Jack Russell Terrier does not need additional grooming on a regular basis compared to the smooth coat, it will need special attention for the show ring.

Jack Russell Terrier Broken Coat

With a broken coat, your Jack Russell Terrier gets the best of both worlds. A broken-coated Jack Russell has a combination of both the smooth and rough coats covering its body. Patches of long fur will often be spread throughout smooth hair patches to give your unique dog a look all its own.

While the fur on a broken-coated Jack Russell Terrier varies from one spot to another, it doesn’t require additional grooming either. The coat should still be wiry and protect your dog from the elements with no problems. Your Jack Russell with a broken-coat can still compete in shows too, he or she will just need a little tidying up before the light shines.

Whether you have a Jack Russell Terrier with a smooth coat, rough coat, or broken coat, one thing is for certain – these little dogs are perfect just the way they are. Check to see what kind of coat your Jack Russell has and let us know in the comments below!