The world of canine companionship offers a myriad of breeds, each with its unique charm and history. Among them, the Hunt Terrier stands out, a captivating breed that has inspired a dedicated journey into responsible breeding and the pursuit of excellence. This article delves into the fascinating world of Hunt Terriers, exploring their distinctive characteristics, the intricacies of establishing a robust breeding program, and the exciting frontier of introducing novel color variations.
My initial encounter with Hunt Terriers dates back to the Arabian Youth Nationals around 1997-98. Their striking appearance and undeniable cuteness immediately captivated me, leaving a lasting impression. At the time, I mistakenly believed them to be “black and tan Jack Russells,” a common misconception due to their similar stature and terrier traits. It wasn’t until later conversations that I understood the crucial distinction: Hunt Terriers, particularly the short-legged varieties, share many fundamental characteristics with what were then known as Russell Terriers, differing primarily in their unique color expressions. This realization sparked a deeper interest and a desire to contribute to the breed’s re-establishment.
One of the most defining characteristics of the Hunt Terrier, and a significant aspect that shapes our breeding philosophy, is their profound need for human companionship. Unlike some breeds that are content with the company of their own kind, Hunt Terriers often display a strong preference for human interaction, thriving on close bonds with their families. This “needier” disposition translates into incredibly loyal and affectionate companions who desire to be an integral part of their human’s daily life. For prospective owners, understanding this innate trait is crucial; these are dogs that flourish in environments where they receive ample attention, engagement, and inclusion in family activities. Their sweet personalities, combined with their robust terrier spirit, make them exceptionally rewarding pets for those prepared to invest in their emotional well-being.
Establishing a responsible Hunt Terrier breeding program presented its own set of challenges, particularly in sourcing diverse and healthy outcross pedigrees within the United States. To broaden the genetic pool and enhance the breed’s overall vitality, I sought out individuals from varied lineages. My foundation male was discovered in Arizona, possessing the desired structural integrity and temperament. To complement him, a female from the Netherlands was carefully selected, forming a beautiful pair that produced some truly exceptional pups. From the outset, the breeding goals were clear: to cultivate specific aesthetic qualities such as improved bone structure, more refined ears with ideal set, prettier head types, and greater substance in the body. Beyond physical attributes, a paramount focus was placed on enhancing the inherent sweet and agreeable personalities of the dogs, ensuring they were not only beautiful but also wonderful companions.
Our breeding program is built on a foundation of careful consideration and a commitment to the long-term health and temperament of each Hunt Terrier. One significant cross involved our female Kowgyrl with Body, a pairing specifically aimed at producing solid red coats, a highly sought-after color. This combination yielded impressive results, and we proudly retained Leayla from this litter to continue these desirable lines. Another successful pairing, Tessa with Wylie, produced some stunning solid black pups, further expanding the color palette within our program. For pups with spotted coats, we implement strict spay/neuter contracts to ensure responsible pet ownership and to maintain the integrity of our specific breeding objectives. This meticulous approach mirrors the dedication and success I previously experienced in breeding horses and English Jack Russells, instilling confidence in the trajectory of our Hunt Terrier venture.
The journey with these remarkable Hunt Terriers continues to evolve, with an exciting new chapter focused on introducing and establishing unique and breathtaking new colors. We are diligently working towards bringing chocolate sables, true chocolate sables, and blue Hunt Terriers into our program. This ambitious endeavor is well underway, significantly bolstered by the addition of key individuals such as Arlo, Mags, Bayli, and, of course, Jongen, whose genetics are pivotal to achieving these exquisite hues. These beautiful and distinctive chocolate sable and blue colors represent a very unique and valuable addition, not only enriching our breeding program but also offering future owners an even broader spectrum of aesthetically striking companions.
It has been an incredibly exciting and fulfilling journey to introduce the magnificent Hunt Terrier to enthusiasts and families across the globe. Our commitment to preserving their unique qualities while thoughtfully expanding their genetic diversity and aesthetic appeal remains unwavering. We invite you to explore our Hunt Terriers and learn more about this captivating breed. Should you consider welcoming one of these exceptional dogs into your home in the future, it would be our distinct privilege to share the fruits of our dedicated breeding program with you, connecting you with a truly special companion.
