8-18 lbs
8-12"
Unknown
The cute Papillon and the mischievous Jack Russell Terrier are the parents of this new hybrid breed called the Papijack. Though they may be little, these dogs might not be the best choice for owners who live in apartments, because they can be protective and territorial and may feel the need to bark at every little sound. They might go bouncing off the walls if they do not get enough exercise as well, since they have high activity needs. These dogs have very expressive but fun personalities and love to spend time with their owners. Their coat and appearance are easy to maintain, although they do need lots of exercise.
The Papijack is one of the new designer dog breeds. The name Papijack is used to represent the combination between the two parent breeds; the Papillon and the Jack Russell Terrier. Papillons are one of the oldest breeds and have been around for about 700 years. Their history began in Europe, where the dogs most commonly had dropped ears. Back then, they were called Dwarf Spaniels and could often be seen in Italian Renaissance paintings from between the 13th and 15th centuries. These works of art often showed Papillon dogs sitting with French and Spanish noblewomen. Eventually they were called Continental Toy Spaniels, or simply Toy Spaniels. The name Papillon was given to the erect eared variety of these dogs since the ears with the long silky fur would resemble a butterfly. The drop eared variety was then known as the Phalene. The Jack Russell Terrier was actually given their name in honor of Rev. John Russell, who was a clergyman. These small dogs were primarily used in the mid-1800s for hunting red fox by digging them out of their dens. The body type of these dogs is quite varied, since the breeders prioritized hunting skills over appearance. Eventually, some breed enthusiasts chose to change the Jack Russell Terrier Association of America into the Parson Russell Terrier Association of America. A Russell Terrier would fall into the Parson category if they fit the ideal appearance for showing. Jack Russells would be the dogs who were used for work. Together the Papillon and the Jack Russell Terrier were used to create the Papijack.
Papijacks are the offspring of a Papillon dog and a Jack Russell Terrier and will adopt some physical traits from both of these purebred breeds. The Papillon is known as a small dog with fine bones and little heads that are slightly rounded between the ears. These dogs have well defined stops and short, thin muzzles that taper towards the end. The eyes will be dark, round and medium in size with black rims. This breed has ears that can be either dropped and rounded at the tips or erect and pointy. The ears will have long and fringed fur which give off a sort of butterfly look, hence the name of the breed. The dogs with dropped ears are usually referred to as Phalene Papillon. These dogs have scissor bite teeth and the high set tails, which will also be covered in long silky hair, will rest over the body. This beautiful long hair can also be found on the chest and the back of the legs. The other parent breed is small but has a very athletic appearance. Between the ears the skull is flat and has a slight taper. These dogs have non abrupt stops that are defined. Their dark eyes are non protruding and almond shaped, and the ears, which are v-shaped, face forward. Their teeth will connect with a scissors bite, and the tail is high set. These dogs have coats which come in two types; the smooth and the broken. Jack Russell Terriers have small chests which allow them to fit into the burrows of their prey. The forelegs are straight and long, whereas the hind ends are muscular and strong. Your Papijack can take after either one of the parents. Some are seen that look like the Jack Russell Terrier, with a square appearance and a full muzzle. Others will be more dainty and furry like the Papillon.
Considering the needs of the parent breeds, these tiny hybrid dogs will have a moderate maintenance level. Looking first at the Papillon, we know that their coat will need to be brushed and combed daily as well as bathed as needed. The Jack Russell Terrier has very easy to groom fur that needs regular brushing and bathing. The rough coat variety will need to be stripped, as well as any dog who wants to participate in shows. Other needs include teeth brushing and nail clipping. Keeping your dog’s teeth and gums healthy is easy, as long as you brush them at least two to three times every week or, even better, every day. Nail clipping will be needed around once or twice a month. This is the average, and if a dog is more or less active than most it will affect how often they will need to be clipped. Ear infections are also a concern for dog owners. However, they can be avoided if the owner cleans and checks the pet’s ears at least once a week.
Papijacks can suffer from a variety of health concerns. Secure pet health insurance today to avoid high veterinary care costs. Wag! Wellness lets pet parents compare insurance plans from leading companies like Figo and Spot. Find the “pawfect” plan for your pet in just a few clicks!
Written by a Great Dane lover Madison Stott
Published: 11/10/2017, edited: 12/09/2021
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