Rahul Gandhi has a new pet dog. What makes the Jack Russell Terrier special

Former Congress President Rahul Gandhi has adopted a Jack Russell Terrier (JRT) dog, a breed known for its keen sense of smell and intelligence.

Gandhi had inquired about the dog beforehand from breeders Shivani Pitre and Stanley Braganca, who run a dog shelter in North Goa. He visited the center around 9 am on Thursday, August 3rd, while heading to Manohar International Airport, Mopa, in North Goa.

Gandhi personally wanted to meet the specific puppy he was adopting. Besides this one, he has also purchased another JRT puppy to be delivered later.

What sets this dog apart

The Jack Russell Terrier breed is beloved among dog enthusiasts for its sharp senses of sight and smell, as well as its long lifespan.

Recently, a Jack Russell Terrier received a medal from Ukraine’s President Volodomyr Zelenskyy for detecting mines left by retreating Russian forces in reclaimed territories.

JRT's origin story

The Jack Russell Terrier originated in 19th century England. They were initially bred to hunt foxes.

Named after a pastor, John Russell, who wanted a dog that could chase foxes, this breed was developed through a focused breeding program.

These dogs became popular for their agility, speed, and ability to hunt foxes effectively.

They were also convenient for hunters to carry due to their small size.

With their unique qualities, the JRT became a recognised breed.

Keeping a JRT as a Pet

Before considering a JRT as a pet, remember they were bred for hunting and can be assertive. However, with proper training, they can be good companions.

Daily exercise of around 90 minutes is important, as they are energetic and need space to move. They tend to dig, so walks in the park are recommended.

JRTs are intelligent and have a long lifespan. In India, their cost ranges from Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000. If you want a hunting dog at home, proper training is key.