Appearance of the Papijack
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Papijacks are the offspring of a Continental Toy Spaniel and a Jack Russell Terrier, and will adopt certain physical traits of these two pure breeds. The Continental Toy Spaniel is known as a small, fine-boned dog with small, slightly rounded heads between the ears. These dogs have well-defined stops and short, fine muzzles that taper towards the end. The eyes will be dark, round and medium-sized with black rims. This breed has ears that can be either floppy and rounded at the tips, or erect and pointed. The ears will have a long, fringed coat that gives a sort of Continental Toy Spaniel look, hence the breed's name. Dogs with floppy ears are generally called Phalene Papillons. These dogs have scissor-like teeth and the high tails, which will also be covered with long silky hair, will rest on the body. This beautiful long coat is also found on the chest and back of the legs. The other parent breed is small but very athletic in appearance. Between the ears, the skull is flat and slightly tapered. These dogs have defined, unsharp stops. Their dark eyes are almond-shaped and not protruding, and the V-shaped ears face forward. Their teeth connect with a scissor bite and the tail is set high. These dogs have coats that come in two types: smooth and broken. Jack Russell Terriers have small trunks that enable them to slip into the burrows of their prey. The front legs are straight and long, while the rear extremities are muscular and strong. Your Papijack can follow either parent. Some resemble the Jack Russell Terrier, with a square appearance and a full muzzle. Others are more delicate and hairy, like the Continental Toy Spaniel. |
Temperament of the Papijack
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The personalities of these hybrid dogs will generally lie somewhere between those of their parents. Continental Toy Spaniels are intelligent, friendly dogs who love to play outdoors. They're charming and fun-loving, but also affectionate and gentle. These dogs are obedient and generally don't bark. When properly socialized, they can be a good match for households with cats. If raised correctly and not taught to be dominant and nervous, these dogs will also make excellent, trusted companions around children. They are easy dogs to train, apart from their owners. It's often said that Jack Russell Terriers have big personalities for such small dogs. These intelligent dogs cling to everything and have cheeky personalities. They can be mischievous with a mind of their own. Because of their impressive intelligence, they are generally easy to train and are also very talented at sports and activities. They also make wonderful pets. Papijack owners say they are a lively dog that listens well and has energy to burn. |
Needs and activities of the Papijack
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The activity requirements of designer dogs will depend on those of the parents. In the case of the Papijack, we must first consider the activity level of the Continental Toy Spaniel, then compare it later with the Jack Russell Terrier. Continental Toy Spaniels will need at least one walk a day, with some play time and just a little time to wander around the yard. If this creative dog takes on some of the habits of the Jack Russell Terrier, it will need to be well exercised before being left alone in the house, as it can be difficult to manage if it contains too much energy. A house with a yard is ideal for this hybrid, so be sure to keep an eye on your Papijack when he's outside, as he loves to dig and can find an easy escape route. |
Maintenance of the Papijack
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Given the needs of the parent breeds, these tiny hybrid dogs will have a moderate level of maintenance. Looking first at the Continental Toy Spaniel, we know that its coat will need daily brushing and combing, as well as bathing as required. The Jack Russell Terrier has a very easy-care coat that requires regular brushing and bathing. The rough-coated variety should be stripped, as should any dog wishing to take part in shows. Other needs include brushing teeth and trimming nails. Keeping your dog's teeth and gums healthy is easy, as long as you brush them at least two to three times a week or, better still, every day. Nail trimming will be necessary about once or twice a month. This is the average, and if a dog is more or less active than most, this will affect how often they need trimming. Ear infections are also a concern for dog owners. However, they can be avoided if the owner cleans and checks the dog's ears at least once a week. |