Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I recently got a 10 week old female JRT. I love to play and take care of her, but my family is always very busy, as am I. Right now she requires almost constant attention, attention that we can't always give her.
Do JRT's become more indepenant in the future? if so, how soon?
Does anyone else have the same problem, and are there ways to deal with this?
Thanks, Jon

>>I recently got a 10 week old female JRT. I love to play and take care of her, but my family is always very busy, as am I. Right now she requires almost constant attention, attention that we can't always give her.
>> Do JRT's become more indepenant in the future? if so, how soon?
>> Does anyone else have the same problem, and are there ways to deal with this?
>> Thanks, Jon

>>>>>>>>>>>

She will always need supervision and for you to keep her busy with constructive activities. This breed was genetically programmed to kill foxes, and with no foxes to go after, the dog may decide to kill cats instead. These little dogs are more like a 60-pound dog in strength, energy and determination. You don't WANT a JRT to become independent. That is a much bigger problem than a dog who needs attention.

Many of the people serious about the preservation of the breed want to see them in homes where they will be kept busy. It is much better for their mental health and their other behavior.
-----
Kathy Diamond Davis, author, "Therapy Dogs: Training Your Dog to Reach Others," 2nd edition, and the free Canine Behavior Series articles at http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=SRC&S=1&SourceID=47