A mix between a Jack Russell Terrier and a Maltese, the Jacktese is a friendly, energetic breed that makes a great companion for active people.
A Jacktese with one Jack Russell parent and one Maltese parent is known as a first generation Jacktese. A Jack Russell Maltese mix with two Jacktese parents is a 2nd generation (or 3rd, 4th, etc.) Jacktese.
If you are thinking about adopting one of these cute little pups, here are 11 things to know about the Jacktese dog breed.
Also Read: Jack Russell Terrier Mixes [30 JRT Mixed Breeds w/ Pictures]
| Breed Names | Jacktese, Jack Malt, MalJack, Jackatese, Maltejack, Maltijack |
| Height (inches) | 10" to 14" |
| Weight (pounds) | 10 to 15 lbs |
| Color | primarily white with brown or black markings |
| Lifespan | 12 to 16 years |
| Cost | $200 to $1,500 |
1. Jack Russell Terrier Maltese Mix Breed Names
Jack Russell Terrier Maltese Mix is most commonly referred to as the Jacktese, but is also sometimes called the Jack Malt, MalJack, Jackatese, Maltejack, or Maltijack.
Like Maltese, the plural of Jacktese is also Jacktese.
2. Jacktese Size
Maltese belong to the smallest dog breed group known as toy dogs. They usually only weigh up to 9 pounds and stand 8 to 10 inches tall.
Jack Russell Terriers are slightly larger, weighing up to 17 pounds and standing between 10 and 15 inches tall.
The size of Jack Russell Maltese mixes falls right in between, with most Jacktese weighing between 10 and 15 pounds and standing between 10 and 14 inches tall.
3. Jacktese Colors
Purebred Maltese always have a pure white coat. Jack Russells are primarily white with different color markings on their coat that can be different shades of black and brown.
Some Jacktese will have almost entirely white coats, but most will be primarily white with similar color markings to the Jack Russell.
4. Jacktese Lifespan
The average lifespan for dogs in general is about 10 to 12 years. However, smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs.
In addition, both the Jack Russell Terrier and Maltese are among the dogs with the longest lifespans.
Jack Russells usually live between 13 and 16 years. While Maltese have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. These are just averages, and both Jack Russells and Maltese have been known to live into their late teens.
As a result, the Jacktese also has a long average lifespan of 12 to 16 years or longer.
5. Strong Prey Drive
Both the Jack Russell Terrier and Maltese have a strong prey drive and a natural instinct to hunt small animals.
The Jack Russell was originally bred to be a fox hunting companion and continues to have the inclination to hunt small animals.
The exact origins of the Maltese are not know, but they are an ancient dog breed from Malta in the Mediterranean where they were used to protect ships’ cargo and food from rats and mice as far back as 1000 BC.
Today, the Jack Russell Terrier, Maltese, and their mixed breed offspring are usually kept as family pets. Nonetheless, all three breeds maintain their strong prey drive.
The Jacktese has an impulse to chase after squirrels, chipmunk, mice, or any other small animals that may be in your yard. They are also happy to chase after tennis balls and play fetch.
6. Jack Russell Maltese Mix Shedding
Jack Russell Terriers shed moderately and Maltese have minimal shedding. As a result, Jacktese do shed lightly.
You probably want to know about Jacktese shedding either because you are worried about dog hair all over your house or because someone in your family is allergic to dogs.
Almost all dog breeds shed some. If you are looking for a dog that you don’t have to pick up their hair, then your best bet might be a dog like the American Hairless Terrier.
However, if you are ok with occasional vacuuming and sweeping, the Jacktese might work for you.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a dog that won’t trigger your allergies the Jack Russell Maltese mix is not right for you. While they are light shedders, Jacktese are not hypoallergenic dogs.
7. Jacktese Exercise Needs
Both the Jack Russell and Maltese are lively dog breeds that require daily exercise.
Jack Russells require at least an hour of exercise each day, while the smaller Maltese only needs about 20 to 30 minutes of exercise everyday.
The exercise requirements for Jack Russell Maltese mixes will vary from dog to dog, but they are a fairly high energy breed that require a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise each day.
If you notice behavioral problems such as excessive barking or destroying things around the house, that’s a good sign that they may need more exercise than that they are getting.
Going for walks, playing fetch, or just running around the yard are all good ways to get your Jacktese some exercise.
For more ideas, check out the 8 best ways to tire out your Jack Russell Terrier. All the items on the list can also be used for Jacktese.
8. Cost of Jack Russell Maltese Mix Puppies
The cost of a Jack Russell Maltese Mix puppy can vary widely depending on where you look with prices ranging between $200 and $1,500.
It is extremely important to do your research before adopting any dog from a breeder or rescue. Choosing a dog based on price alone can end up costing you much more in the long run in they way of veterinarian bills.
Reputable dog breeders will be happy to answer any of your questions and provide you with information about the parents and grandparents of your puppy. They will also provide a health guarantee and be available for support after you take your puppy home.
9. Is the Jacktese a Designer Dog Breed?
While there is no set definition of a designer dog breed, generally a designer dog is an intentional cross between two purebreds in an attempt to get the best qualities from each parent breed.
Many Jacktese owners would argue that their Jack Russell Maltese meets the definition of a designer dog.
However, unlike some other Jack Russell mix breeds such as the Jug and Jorkie, the Jacktese is not recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR).
10. Jacktese Stubbornness
The Jack Russell and Maltese can both be stubborn at times, and it’s no surprise that the Jacktese can also be headstrong.
They’re quick to learn new things and they have a good memory. However, they also like to do things their own way and they can be resistant to change. This can sometimes manifest as a stubborn streak.
Jacktese dogs are bred to be companion animals, but they still have a strong instinct to be their own boss. This is why it is important to let them know you are the pack leader by starting training at an early age.
11. Watch Dog
Despite their small size, Jacktese make excellent watch dogs. They are very alert and will bark at any strangers who approach their home.
Some people may be bothered by their dog barking every time the mailman comes to the door, but if you are looking for a vigilant dog who will alert you when people are on your property the Jacktese will certainly do that.
Jack Russell Maltese Mix Final Thoughts
The Jacktese is a combination of the Jack Russell Terrier and Maltese who were both originally kept as hunting and working dogs. Today, the small dog is usually kept as a family pet, but they still maintain some of their working instincts.
However, they are also very loving and affectionate with their family and make great companions. If you are looking for a little furry friend that will keep you active, the Jack Russell Terrier Maltese mix may be the perfect breed for you.
Similar Mixed Breeds
- Boston Terrier Maltese Mix (Boston Malterrier): The Boston Malterrier is a hybrid breed combining the playful and friendly Boston Terrier with the intelligent and affectionate Maltese, creating a small to medium-sized dog that is adaptable, loyal, and suitable for various lifestyles.
- Jack Russell Terrier Pomeranian Mix (Jack-A-Ranian): The Jack-A-Ranian is a mix breed dog, combining the energetic nature of the Jack Russell Terrier with the fluffy and loving traits of the Pomeranian, resulting in a compact, lively, and affectionate companion.