We had a JRT before we got our Yorkies. The JRT was SOOO SMART!!! But, he had to be heavily exercised, everyday. He was walked about 2-3 miles and then we would play ball with him for a couple of hours everyday too. Still, he was a bundle of energy. He was a good dog, well trained, minded us, until my husband got sick and became disabled and could not exercise him properly. Then, when my husband would have to go into the hospital and I would have to stay at the hospital with him, even though my mom was here at the house, the JRT would tear up EVERYTHING not tied down. We had to rehome him because he could not tolerate the lack of exercise and us being gone. They are very good dogs, but they take tons of time and attention.
After my husband became disabled and had very little energy to devote to exercise, he was so very lonely for a dog, so we got Rowdy - BEST decision ever. Rowdy loves to walk, but about a half mile at a time - perfect for my husband. And if he doesn't feel like it, I can walk Rowdy after work. Rowdy is pretty laid back, just a little barky, definitely on point for strange noises and the like, but nothing like the JRT. Rexy is even more laid back. Neither Rex or Rowdy have the energy of the JRT - who could go and go and go and go, just like the energizer bunny.
From my experience, the two breeds are as different as night and day. It's even hard to imagine that they are both terriers.
__________________  Rex & Rowdy's Mom  |