The Jack Russell General Wears Every Medal and Never Stands Down

With one tan ear folded and one eyebrow raised, a white-and-tan Jack Russell Terrier looks out from a navy general's coat. Heavy gold epaulettes sit on both shoulders, a cream sash with gold edging crosses his chest, and a cluster of medals and stars gleams over his heart. His dark eyes are bright and eager, and the soft, cloudy background gives his portrait an almost heroic glow.

Jack Russell Terriers are small, athletic dogs with an enormous supply of energy and curiosity. They were developed to hunt, so they tend to chase small animals and dig, and they need a secure yard or leash. Daily exercise, training games and puzzle toys help keep them from getting bored. Smart and determined, they do well with patient, consistent training, and a vet can offer advice on keeping a lively terrier healthy.

The medals are painted in great detail, each with its own tiny ribbon and star, and they shine against the dark blue. It is easy to imagine each one standing for a heroic deed, such as defending the sofa from a stuffed toy or rescuing a ball from under a chair. The terrier's alert, upright pose makes it clear that this general is always ready to move.

With so much energy, this general would be up before the troops every morning.