A Jack Russell Met Four Ducklings, and He Was Very Polite
A tricolor Jack Russell Terrier lowers his head until his nose is nearly touching four plump ducklings standing in front of him. His brown ears are folded forward and his eyes are focused with the intensity of a scientist examining a rare find. The ducklings stand shoulder to shoulder, necks stretched, their yellow fluff looking as soft as clouds. The wooden floor beneath them shows a few specks of dust, and behind them sits a worn couch with a blanket and a pair of shoes.
Jack Russell Terriers are energetic, clever and determined dogs that were bred for hunting small game, so they often have a strong instinct to chase. That makes introductions with ducklings something to approach with care. A sniff is a normal way for a dog to learn about a new animal, but it should always be calm and supervised, with the dog on a leash if needed. Reward calm behavior and give the dog a break if he gets too excited. Ducklings should be kept safe in a brooder when no one is watching, and your vet or a trainer can help.
Right now, the terrier is polite and gentle, taking in every detail. The ducklings, curious but unafraid, stare right back. It is a tiny meeting between two very different personalities, and it seems to be going well.
