The Short Answer is:

No, unfortunately. There is no evidence to suggest that Jack Russell terriers are hypoallergenic dogs, as they shed. Nevertheless, different JRTs are shed in different ways because they have different coat types. Low-shedding dogs may trigger fewer allergy symptoms than other dog breeds for people with mild-to-moderate allergies.

In this article you will know the answer to the query “Are jack Russell terriers hypoallergenic?“.

Are Jack Russell Terriers Hypoallergenic?

If you’re looking for a small dog with a lot of personality and brains the Jack Russell terrier (or JRT) is a great choice. Is it possible to suffer from allergies? Jack Russells are hypoallergenic dogs are not they?

No unfortunately. There is no evidence to suggest that Jack Russell terriers are hypoallergenic dogs as they shed. Nevertheless different JRTs are shed in different ways because they have different coat types. Low-shedding dogs may trigger fewer allergy symptoms than other dog breeds for people with mild-to-moderate allergies.

The following information will assist you in understanding why some Jack Russells coats cause fewer allergy symptoms as well as how to welcome a dog into your home if you suffer from allergies.

What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?

The word hypoallergenic refers to a type of dog that does not shed fur. In the case of an allergic or asthmatic person hypoallergenic dogs may cause breathing problems when interacting with them.

As this breed of dog may cause allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin or asthma it may not be the best choice for you if you suffer from allergies. If you do not suffer from these conditions you should not hesitate to welcome a Jack Russell terrier into your home. These dogs are full of character and they are devoted to their owners. 

Dogs with hypoallergenic coats produce little to no dander (dead skin) which can cause allergic reactions in people.

WHAT CAUSES DOG ALLERGIES?

A lot of people believe that their allergy symptoms are caused by pet hair. Pet allergies are actually caused by a protein found in the animals saliva urine and dander according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

Nonetheless when a dog licks its coat the protein in the saliva spreads throughout the fur. Furthermore dead skin cells attached to dog hair from dander. A dogs loose hair releases these allergens into your home causing an allergic reaction.

Hence loose fur around your house is not an allergen in and of itself but it does spread allergens. It is for this reason that non-shedding and hairless dogs are the best dogs for allergy sufferers. If you have mild-to-moderate allergies to dogs such as some varieties of Jack Russells these dogs may be a good choice but if you have severe allergies they might not be.

CARE OF THE JACK RUSSELL TERRIER

In order to grow and develop properly and meet the demands of his rambunctious lifestyle the Jack Terrier requires high-quality dog food. A healthy diet should include protein as the first ingredient along with vegetables fruits vitamins and minerals.

Have trouble keeping your Jack Russell under control? Make sure he has a good eye test.

By looking straight down at him you can accomplish this. Does he have a wider waist or is he too wide?

You should now place your hands on his back with your thumbs along the spine and your fingers spreading downward. If you press hard enough you should be able to feel but not see his ribs. You should give him less food and more exercise if you can not.

Your JRT will need access to a fenced-in backyard in order to burn off all his energy. However keep in mind that not all fences are created equal and your clever Terrier will find the weak links. In order to escape the security of his yard this breed is known to climb accessible trees.

It is highly recommended that you walk your Jack Russell on a leash to prevent him from taking after “prey.” His walks should last about 30 to 45 minutes each day and they should be fast-paced. His daily exercise regimen can include trips to the beach hikes agility training or even Flyball.

Jacks well-mannered adulthood depends on early socialization with other dogs as a puppy. You can help your pup with the process by enrolling him in puppy classes or obedience classes.

SO ARE JACK RUSSELL TERRIERS HYPOALLERGENIC?

Jack Russell terriers despite their low shedding variety are not hypoallergenic dogs. On its list of hypoallergenic dog breeds the American Kennel Club (AKC) which is the authority on purebred dogs in the United States does not include either of the two types of Jack Russell terriers.

There are now two different breeds of Jack Russell terrier neither of which is officially known as a Jack Russell. Jack Russells are divided into two distinct breeds by the American Kennel Club in the early 2000s. The Parson Russell terrier is one type of dog while the Russell terrier is another.

It has a smooth double coat and is slightly larger than the Parson Russell terrier. It is possible to find Russell terriers with smooth coats or rough coats however. Wire-haired Russell terriers with a rough coat are better for allergy sufferers than those with smooth coats though both coat types can cause allergic reactions especially in people with severe allergies.

The Jack Russell’s Coat Types

You can expect the Jack Russells different types of coats to shed and trigger allergies to varying degrees:

The Parson Russell terrier’s coat: It sheds moderately throughout the year with two periods of heavier shedding in the spring and fall. Most pet parents with allergies experience an allergic reaction to this amount of shedding.

The Russell terrier’s smooth coat: It is likely that dogs with this smooth coat will shed about as much as Parson Russells so they will also have a similar effect on allergies.

The Russell terrier’s rough coat: A broken coat or wire-haired coat sheds about as much as a smooth coat but because of its texture much of the loose hair stays in the coat. By brushing frequently you will spread less dander around your environment and be able to control shedding better.

WHAT IF YOU HAVE ALLERGIES AND WANT A JACK RUSSELL TERRIER?

You can turn all that loving energy toward a wire-haired Jack Russell terrier if you have allergies and want a Jack Russell terrier. Although this type of coat will be best for your allergies it may still cause symptoms for you. These lifestyle changes can help you test the waters and further reduce your allergy risk.

Do a test run: If your allergies are triggered by wire-haired Russell terriers try pet sitting or fostering one in your home for a few days or a week until you determine if it is the right breed for you. You may be able to arrange this test run with a local breeder or a breed-specific rescue organization.

Invest in a robot vacuum cleaner: Daily vacuuming is a big commitment but its the best method for removing loose hair and dander. Wear a mask and gloves when you empty the vacuum filter and use a robot vacuum to make the process easier.

Brush your JRT daily: Using a wire-bristle slicker brush you can remove loose hair from your dogs coat before it sheds in your house. You may need to wear a face mask and gloves or take an allergy pill depending on the severity of your allergies.

Give your JRT a fish oil supplement: A fish oil supplement for dogs rich in omega-3 fatty acids is all-natural. As a result your dogs coat will stay healthy reducing shedding and preventing skin and coat problems.

Feed high-quality dog food: It is possible for dogs to shed more when they do not get enough nutrition. To keep your dog healthy and reduce shedding choose a dog food that features meat as the first ingredient and whole-food vegetables and fruits.

Train them to stay off the furniture and out of the bedroom: Keeping dog hair off your furniture and out of your bedroom where you spend one-third of your time can reduce your exposure to dander. You can give your dog its own bed so that it has a comfortable place that is not part of your furniture.

Cover your bedroom air vents: It is possible for central air conditioning to spread shed hair throughout your home. Cover your vents with cheesecloth and change these covers every few years to keep your bedroom allergen-free.

WHICH BREEDS ARE A SOLID CHOICE FOR ALLERGY SUFFERERS?

If you’re not satisfied with the answer to your question – Are Jack Russell terriers hypoallergenic? I encourage you to take heart. You may still be able to find the perfect dog.

There is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog (any dog can cause allergies if they are severe enough) but there are non-shedding and hairless dogs. There are eight similar dog breeds to Jack Russells that are less likely to cause allergies in potential dog owners.

Miniature poodle

Like Jack Russell the miniature poodle is one of five types of poodles (so they can be found in most sizes). This breed is also considered to be the least prone to allergies among all dog breeds.

Jack-a-Poo

They often inherit the non-shedding characteristics of their poodle parent since they are a combination of a Jack Russell terrier and a poodle. You are more likely to get a pup that would not shed if you choose a third-generation Jack-a-Poo. A breeder who specializes in placing non-shedding puppies with allergy sufferers may also be able to help you.

Yorkshire Terrier

If you’re looking for a family pet Yorkies are good with children. Additionally they are low-shedding breeds with the same high energy and spunky spirit as Jack Russells.

Bedlington terrier

Although Bedlington terriers resemble little lambs they are more laid-back in the house than Jack Russells but they have similar comic personalities and are independent in nature.

Bichon Frise

Known for its intelligence playful nature and ease of training the bichon is more of a lapdog than a JRT. Keeping its snowball coat in shape will require frequent grooming.

Chinese crested

As the only hairless breed on our list the Chinese Crested has a mostly hairless body and silky hair on its head and feet. This dog has been used for exterminating small rodents and it has a lively alert temperament.

Maltese

In addition to being extremely intelligent the Maltese is also slightly smaller than the JRT and more eager to please. Jack Russells are not as stubborn as this lapdog but they do not tolerate long periods of alone time as well.

Miniature schnauzer

Due to its playful nature and eagerness to please the miniature schnauzer has historically been used as a circus dog. We recommend this dog to Russell terrier lovers with allergies because it shares the wit and charm of the Russell terrier.

ALLERGY SUFFERERS: ‘RUSTLE’ UP SOME TISSUES

It is important for allergy sufferers to know that Jack Russell terriers are not hypoallergenic dogs. In most cases people with pet allergies will experience an allergic reaction to smooth-coated Jack Russells (which includes all Parson Russells and some Russells). 

For allergy sufferers wire-haired Russell terriers are a better – but still not perfect – alternative.

If wire-coat Jack Russell terriers are trained to stay off the furniture and out of bedrooms people with mild-to-moderate dog allergies may be able to live comfortably with these dogs. You can also reduce your exposure to allergens from this breed by vacuuming frequently and taking omega-3 supplements.

Most people with pet allergies will be able to live with a non-shedding or hairless dog breed such as a miniature poodle Yorkshire terrier bichon frise or Chinese crested. Regardless of the breed you choose be sure to do some pet sitting before adopting to see if the breed triggers your allergies.

Conclusion

I hope this information has helped you decide if a Jack Russell is the right dog for you. We hope this article clarifies any confusion you may have had about whether they are hypoallergenic if you happen to own one already.

Amanda (Author)

With over a decade of experience, Amanda is a distinguished dog trainer. Her expertise in canine behavior has transformed countless lives, fostering harmonious human-canine connections. Through compassionate and personalized approaches, she empowers owners to understand and connect with their furry companions, creating a legacy of joyful tails and transformed lives.

Osvaldo Maciel (Content Reviewer)

Osvaldo Maciel, a stalwart in the field with 14 years of experience, is a revered dog trainer. His journey is defined by a profound understanding of canine behavior, shaping unbreakable human-canine bonds. Osvaldo guides owners to connect with their beloved pets, leaving an indelible mark of happiness and transformation. His legacy shines through the countless lives he has touched.