The 1997 romantic comedy-drama “As Good As It Gets” stars Jack Nicholson as a misanthropic novelist who finds himself reluctantly befriending a single mother (Helen Hunt) and her son (Cuba Gooding Jr.). The movie also features a precocious canine named Verdell, a Jack Russell terrier who steals every scene he’s in.
Verdell: A Jack Russell Terrier with a Heart of Gold
Verdell, played by a Jack Russell terrier named Kipp, is a loyal and lovable companion who helps Nicholson’s character, Melvin Udall, find redemption from his misanthropic ways. A natural performer, Kipp was trained by animal wrangler and trainer Moira Morrison and her team at Animal Actors International. Kipp won an American Comedy Award for Funniest Supporting Animal in a Motion Picture in 1998 for his performance.
Jack Russell Terriers: An Overview
The Jack Russell terrier is a small, energetic breed of dog originally bred in England in the 1800s. Also known as the Parson Russell terrier, the Jack Russell is a working breed that was bred to hunt foxes and other small animals. Jack Russells have a white coat with black, brown, or tan markings, and their short, stubby legs give them a distinctive silhouette. They are generally friendly and social, but can also be quite stubborn and strong-willed.
Characteristics of Jack Russell Terriers
Jack Russells are active and intelligent dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are extremely loyal and devoted to their owners, and are known for their fearlessness and courage. The breed is known for its independent streak, and requires consistent and clear training from an early age.
Jack Russells as Family Pets
Jack Russells make excellent family pets, as long as their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met. They are generally good with children, although their rough-and-tumble play style means they may not be the best option for very young children. Jack Russells are also known for their strong prey drive and can sometimes be difficult to train, so they may not be the best option for first-time dog owners.
Caring for a Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russells require regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, to keep their coats looking healthy and shiny. They should also receive regular veterinary check-ups to ensure they are healthy and up-to-date on their shots. Jack Russells should have plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, including daily walks, playtime, and obedience training.
Common Health Issues in Jack Russells
Like all breeds, Jack Russells are susceptible to a variety of health issues, including allergies, ear infections, eye problems, and heart disease. Due to their small size, Jack Russells may also be prone to orthopedic issues, such as luxating patella, a condition in which the kneecap slips out of place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What type of dog is Verdell in As Good As It Gets? Verdell is a Jack Russell Terrier.
Are Jack Russells good family pets? Yes, Jack Russells make excellent family pets as long as their exercise and mental stimulation needs are met.
How much exercise does a Jack Russell need? Jack Russells require daily exercise and mental stimulation, including daily walks, playtime, and obedience training.
Are Jack Russells difficult to train? Jack Russells can be difficult to train due to their independent streak and strong prey drive.
Do Jack Russells need to be groomed? Yes, Jack Russells require regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, to keep their coats looking healthy and shiny.
What are some common health issues in Jack Russells? Common health issues in Jack Russells include allergies, ear infections, eye problems, and heart disease. They may also be prone to orthopedic issues, such as luxating patella.
Are Jack Russells good with children? Jack Russells are generally good with children, although their rough-and-tumble play style means they may not be the best option for very young children.