We always had German Shepherds, but 3 years after our last pair of Sheps, we (I) decided to go for a Jack Russell this time. Getting on a bit and thought it might be easier than Shepherds. Man was I wrong, Jack Russels keep you on the run alright (in a good way
). Our was a recue dog too and he had a couple of small issues, but has come along beautifully. He was almost 2 when we got him, and turned 3 in November.
They are very loyal, and can be a bit protective, but have a lovely nature. Hate to say it, but probably smarter than Sheps too. Mine checks to see what I get dressed in the morning, and can tell if I'm staying home or going out somewhere. (maybe i just dress like a slob at home). We take him for runs on Stockton Beach, and let him off lead up in the dunes. We usually do about 4Km in the dunes, but he'd do 3 times that easily, with running up and down and back and forth.
You may have to limit their TV time though, our tends to be a bit of a TV addict. As soon as he hears a particular ad music come on, he bolts in to bark at the dog or cat or whatever is on it. He knows them all too...
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Hope find what you're looking for anyway, but you can't go wrong with a Jack Russell.