​An Unofficial Guide to Jack Russell Terrier Trials for Noobs: What You Need to Know

OK so let me start by saying, we’ve all been there, where you are now. You have or are looking for a JRT and those terrier trials look like fun. Well let me tell you they are. Starting out on a field trial  adventure with your  Jack Russell Terrier can be one of the most challenging, exasperating and rewarding things you have ever done. You may never see your dog’s full potential until you take them to a Terrier trial. Let me tell you when I saw Wingo Ranch Amazing Grace turn from a lap dog into a competitor at her first trial it was, well, amazing. I mean it was like watching Bruce Banner turn into the incredible hulk, on my lap, and I had the scratches to prove it. When I say we have all been there I mean it. We have all worried about our dog barking too much at a trial ( no one hears it ),or how to dress, ( It’s not Cuft’s), and all the other questions that come along with learning something new. But if you show up at a trial or funday you will soon realize that your dog is welcome and most likely you as well. All kidding aside, the JRTCA is made up of some of the most wonderful and wild people I have ever met, for sure we have a Terrier nature, but admit it, if you have or are looking for a Jack, you do too.

Here are my top 3 things to do when you are preparing to go to a JRT Trial.

• Be sure all your Dogs immunizations are up to date. Your dog is going to exposed to many dogs from all over the country so check with your Vet and be sure your covered.
• Look on the JRTCA website for your local affiliate club to see what their next scheduled event is and how to register. Many clubs use TRIAL VAULT, which makes registering easier. If you just want to watch the trial, then you don’t need to register and if you get there and want to try something, In most cases that’s fine too, there is just a small fee, and you can add them to the event if they are a qualified terrier. Some events like racing may be closed at registration.
• Think about what your dog and you would enjoy doing, are they good hunters? Are they fast and agile? Are they a good example of the breed standard? You are really just getting your feet wet here so don’t be afraid to try different things.

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• A sturdy collar and leash, not a retractable leash and a racing lead is recommended for racing.  Down South Dog Designs is a great place to pick up this stuff. Also, for racing you will need a muzzle.
• A crate or carrier for your dog and maybe an exercise pen.
• Proper clothing and footwear for yourself. Be prepared for all weather.
• Bring lots of water, your dog will be working hard.

 
How to Get Your Dog Ready:
Your dog has been bred for this but a little work ahead of time will make your life easier,

• Practicing the specific skills and obstacles required for each event. If you’re racing practice getting the muzzle on and off, peanut butter helps. Find fun things you can do with your dog that closely mimics what they will be doing at a trial. This helps ensure that when the time comes, they have some idea of what game you are playing.
• Build your dog's endurance and fitness through regular exercise and training.
• Socializing your dog to new environments, people, and animals, they are still going to go crazy when the see 200 JRTs in one place.

These are the top 5 things not to do at a JRT trial.

• Don’t bring a puppy under 3 months of age.
• Don’t bring a sick dog.
• Don’t bring a bitch in heat.
• Don’t bring a Partial Russell Terrier.
• Don’t bring a large dog to a terrier trial.
• Don’t let your dog loose and be aware of their proximity to other Terriers.

​Where to Look for More Information

• The Jack Russell Terrier Club of America (JRTCA)
• Local JRTCA affiliated clubs

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​We have all been there:
 At a Terrier trial JRT owners come together to work with their dogs and catch up with their friends. When you and your dog show up at your first trial, if you’re anything like me, you might as well have a student driver patch on your dog’s harness, it was the same for all of us. In my case it was probably obvious that I needed more  help than usual and that Grace my JRT bitch didn’t. I was told to go see Nancy about a muzzle, then Evelyn showed me how to tie a string across the top of Grace’s new Muzzle to keep Grace from pulling it off. I remember the kindness shown to me that day like it was yesterday. Of course, I then proceeded to let Grace run up and down the side of the racetrack on a retractable lead, which I later found out was a big no, no. Now years later, I am still being scolded by my friends for minor infractions, but that’s on me.  I still have that muzzle, it’s one of my most prized possessions and when Grace retires it’s going in the trophy case. If I didn’t drive up to the Georgia mountains that day Grace would never have become mother to champion Terriers and my wife, and I would not have met some wonderful people and some dear friends.
So just show up at the next JRT trial, Good luck and have fun!