Your Jack-A-Ranian is the result of the breeding of a Jack Russell Terrier and a Pomeranian. This hybrid itself originated in the United States, probably in the late 1990’s, for the purpose of what seems to be mostly companionship. Since it is a fairly new hybrid, there isn’t a great deal of information available on it and the historical questions of when, where and why can’t accurately be answered at this time. The parent breeds, the Jack Russell Terrier and the Pomeranian, on the other hand, are well documented in history, dates and places of origination and the purposes for which they were bred. The Jack Russell Terrier originated in the United Kingdom in the early 1800’s and was utilized for hunting and tracking. The breed was large enough to keep up with the foxhounds of England but small enough to “go to ground” and rout a fox from its den. It’s nose continues to work today but is primary purpose now seems to be that of family or individual companion with hunting only as a secondary function. The Pomeranian is a breed that originated in Germany and Poland some time before 1870, when it became better known and was recognized by The Kennel Club (England). Originally, the Pomeranian was a larger dog, weighing in at around 30 pounds, and it was a favorite of English Queen Victoria who fell in love with the a Pom named Marco in 1888 during a trip to France. Today, the breed has been downsized to a weight of under 10 pounds and a height of 8 to 11 inches. They are currently utilized for companionship and are truly a treasure and a delight to their human families. The Jack-A-Ranian is recognized by the following organizations: American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Dogs Kennel Club, Dog Registry of America, Inc. and the International Designer Canine Registry.
