Origin / History
The Atlas Terrier is a breed that resulted from the crossing of many Terrier breeds, most notably the Jack Russell Terrier, Fox Terrier, and the Old English White Terrier. This breed contains many of the same behavioral traits as the Jack Russell Terrier, but none of the genetic health concerns. Jack Russell Terriers are predominantly white, and the gene that causes the white colour in their coat also causes dogs of that breed to be deaf.
In 1990, Lauren Wolfe began developing a breed similar to the Jack Russell Terrier but with a solid colour. She had two dogs that were solid red in colour. She thought these dogs were pure Jack Russell Terriers, but they were actually the result of a cross between a Border terrier and a Jack Russell Terrier. She crossed those two dogs with her line of Jack Russells. Later on, she tried crossing Patterdale Terrier and Jack Russell Terrier breeds as well. This provided her with the foundation for the Atlas Terrier. Wolfe named the breed Atlas Terrier because she used dogs from different parts of the world to develop it. In 2001, the Atlas Terrier Association was founded, and started breeding and testing Atlas Terriers.
Appearance
When it comes to body structure, the Atlas Terrier is fast, athletic, and agile. Atlas Terriers may have either a smooth coat or a wire coat. This coat is weather-resistant and thick. The skull of these dogs are flat between the ears, and their stop is gradual and well-defined. These dogs have almond-shaped eyes which may be solid, cracked, or marbled with any of these colours: amber, brown, yellow, cobalt, glass, hazel, and green. Their ears are v-shaped and fold forward.
Colours
Atlas Terriers come in a variety of colours, which include brindles and merles. White markings on the dog's collar, face, chest, or toes are allowed, but the dog must not be more than 15% white.
Temperament
In terms of behavior, Atlas Terriers are similar to Jack Russell Terriers. Both breeds are outgoing, affectionate, friendly, and mischievous. Atlas Terriers are also very playful, and have a high energy level. These dogs are highly intelligent and inquisitive. Although dogs of this breed are not aggressive, they aren't friendly with strangers and other pets. It takes proper socialization to help Atlas Terriers feel more comfortable with those they are not familiar with. Dogs of this breed love exploring and digging.
Height and Weight
Atlas Terriers come in three size variations: toy, miniature, and standard. Toy Atlas Terriers have a height of 9 to 11 inches and their weight ranges from 6 to 12 pounds. Miniature Atlas Terriers stand 11 to 13 inches and weigh 10 to 15 pounds. Standard Atlas Terriers are 13 to 15 inches in height and have a weight of 13 to 18 pounds.
Common Health Problems
Due to the controlled breeding of Atlas Terriers, they have none of the health problems associated with Jack Russell Terriers. Atlas Terriers also have no major genetic health issues.
Living Conditions
Atlas Terriers can live in apartments just as long as they're given enough exercise. These dogs are very active even when indoors, but it's still best for them to have at least an average-sized yard.
Exercise Requirements
Being a very energetic and agile breed, these dogs need plenty of outdoor exercise. They should be taken on long walks daily and it would be good for them to engage in games such as flyball, racing, and agility.
Training Requirements
It's important for these dogs to be socialized at an early age to curb aggression. Owners should learn how to set boundaries and train these dogs using firm methods. These dogs love to chase, so it's best to keep them on a leash until they are well-trained.
Life Expectancy
Dogs of this breed have a life span of 15 years or more.
Grooming
Both wire-haired and smooth-haired Atlas Terriers are easy to groom. Owners just need to brush the coat of their dogs regularly. Bathing should be done occasionally.
