Even though the Bull Terrier dog breed was initially developed as a fighting dog, it is nowadays a loyal and dedicated family companion. This affectionate pet adores all the household members, especially kids, but it is better to avoid this breed until your children grow up a bit.
Let your friendly pet become a part of the family’s daily activities. Be aware that it won’t enjoy loneliness, and do your best to prevent its anxiety and destructive behavior. Also, be careful and adequately socialize your buddy on time. Otherwise, it can become aggressive.
Everything You Need To Know About The Bull Terrier:
1. History
Bull Terrier breed history is not entirely clear. This breed was probably created in 1835 by crossing Bulldog and now-extinct old English Terrier. Since breeders tended to increase these crossbreeds’ size, they mixed them with Spanish Pointers. That way, they got excellent gladiators for dog-fighting.
English breeder James Hinks managed to create all-white Bull Terriers in 1860, probably by crossbreeding them with Dalmatian and white English Terrier. Those striking ‘White Cavaliers’ became fashionable companions for noble gentlemen. After crossing them with Staffordshire Bull Terrier, breeders reintroduced color in 1900. The American Kennel Club registered the first Bull Terrier Nellie II in 1885 and established the Bull Terrier breed standard. Then, the first Bull Terrier Club of America was established in 1897. In 1936, colored Bull Terrier became a separate breed, while Miniature Bull Terrier was recognized as a different variety in 1992.
It is well-known that white Bull Terrier Willie was beloved George Patton’s dog. Among numerous admirers were President Woodrow Wilson, actress Dolores Del Rio, and Nobel Prize in Literature winner John Steinbeck. One of the most famous Bull Terriers was Patsy Ann that greeted ships docked in Juneau, Alaska, in the 1930s. This dog became the official greeter of Juneau in 1934, and its statue was erected in the harbor in 1992.
You can see Bull Terrier in movies and read about its adventure in Sheila Burnford’s book ‘The Incredible Journey.’ The breed’s popularity skyrocket in 1980 after Budweiser’s commercials with lovely Spuds Mackenzie. In 1999, AKC Champion Kingsmere Moondoggie ‘Smudgie’ became the official Target Corporation mascot.
Ch. Rocky Top’s Sundance Kid became a star of the Westminster Kennel Club dog show in 2006 as the first colored Bull Terrier to win Best in Show. Until then, Ch. Haymarket Faultless was the only white Bull Terrier that managed the same in 1918.
Bull Terrier old type wasn’t gentle like the breed we know today. In fact, the Bull Terrier original look has changed since then, and the breed has passed a long way from ferocious gladiators to beloved pets we admire. Nowadays, this dog breed ranks 61st in popularity among those registered by the American Kennel Club. The newest recognized Miniature Bull Terriers is currently at 129th place.
2. Breed Characteristics
Bull Terrier litter size is approximately four to five puppies per litter. On the other hand, it is not rare for Miniature Bull Terrier to have at least five to nine puppies per litter.
Except for popular working English Bull Terriers, you can also adopt:
- Scottish Bull Terrier
- Australian Bull Terrier
- Russian Bull Terrier
- Spanish Bull Terrier
- Mexican Bull Terrier
3. Personality
Bull Terrier’s personality is unique. This dog is a feisty extrovert and courageous but also a friendly companion kind with its family, kids, and strangers. It is almost impossible to find a shy individual in this breed group.
An excellent Bull Terrier guard dog is dedicated, loyal, and protective. It will bark to warn you to strangers and become aggressive when feeling that its family is endangered. Be careful when noticing undesirable Bull Terrier characteristics like chewing, barking, and tail chasing, and give your best to solve them on time.
4. Temperament
Modern Bull Terrier temperament is sweet and a bit silly. It will be an excellent companion to older kids. On the other hand, toddlers can’t recognize the warning signs. Be careful since maltreated Bull Terriers bite, and that is not harmless at all.
Without early socialization and proper training, you can face Bull Terrier behavior problems because this dog can become jealous, possessive, and aggressive toward other pets, especially dogs. Although this breed can learn to be tolerant, it is better to avoid leaving your buddy alone with small animals.
5. Size And Look
Approximate Bull Terrier height at shoulders is 20 to 23 inches (51 – 58.5 cm), while this dog usually weighs about 45 to 65 pounds (20.5 – 29.5 kg), depending on gender and age. Miniature Bull Terrier’s average weight is 25 to 33 pounds (11 – 15 kg). It is about 10 to 14 inches (25.5 – 35.5 cm) tall at the shoulders.
| Bull Terrier | |||
| Male | Female | Miniature | |
| Height | 21 to 23 inches (53 – 58.5 cm) | 20 to 22 inches (51 – 56 cm) | 10 to 14 inches (25.5 – 35.5 cm) |
| Weight | 55 to 65 pounds (25 – 29.5 kg) | 45 to 55 pounds (20.5 – 25 kg) | 25 to 33 pounds (11 – 15 kg) |
Bull Terrier coat is short and flat, and you can find a wide pallet of Bull Terrier colors.
The most popular dogs are:
- White Bull Terrier
- Red Bull Terrier
- Red and white Bull Terrier
- Merle Bull Terrier
- Blue merle Bull Terrier
- Brown Bull Terrier
- Brown and white Bull Terrier
- Grey Bull Terrier
- Black Bull Terrier
- Black and white Bull Terrier
- Black and tan Bull Terrier
- Fawn and white Bull Terrier
- Spotted Bull Terrier
- Tricolored Bull Terrier
6. Grooming
Bull Terriers care is not a complicated task. Its coat is easy to groom and requires only brushing with a curry brush or rubber mitt once a week. Since Bull Terrier sheds a lot twice a year during shedding seasons, you will probably need to brush your furry friend more often in that period. In most cases, there is no need to bathe it. Trim its nails once a month when needed and check its ears weekly. That’s all.
7. Exercising
Bull Terrier needs daily exercises, especially when it lives indoors. Provide enough physical and mental stimulation to your buddy, and it will be a happy and satisfied pet that you can only wish for.
8. Training
Bull Terrier training requires a calm and persistent owner. It is better to teach this courageous and self-confident dog through games and fun than in the traditional way.
9. Diet And Nutrition
You should always find the best dog food for Bull Terriers to fulfill all your dog’s needs. Recommended Bull Terrier diet includes 2 to 4.25 cups of high-quality dog food a day. Still, you should adjust the meal to your dog, depending on its age, gender, size, activity level, and Bull Terrier food quality. Always divide this amount into two separate meals for better digestion. Luckily, this breed tends to stay in good weight and rarely becomes overweight.
10. Possible Health Problems
Bull Terrier’s health is generally excellent, but this breed may sometimes have problems like any others. Some of the most frequent Bull Terrier health issues include:
General Predisposition
Heart disease – Some Bull Terriers have a defect in heart structure, followed by a heart murmur.
Deafness – White Bull Terriers are often deaf in one or both ears, while colored Bull Terriers are sometimes deaf in one ear. Be prepared that dogs suffering from deafness in both ears require special handling and training techniques.
Spinning – This obsessive chasing the tail for hours prevents the puppy from drinking and eating. It usually appears after it is six months of age.
Skin problems – These white Bull Terrier issues are a consequence of sensitive skin susceptible to irritation, rash, and soreness.
Allergies – Your Bull Terrier can also suffer from inhalant and contact allergies, especially those caused by chemicals, pollen, mold, and dust.
Lens luxation – This Bull Terrier health problem occurs after the ligament holding the eye lens in place deteriorates, and the lens displaces.
Genetic Predispositions
Hereditary nephritis – This kidney disease’s severe form often occurs at an early age due to undeveloped kidneys or filter malfunction. Consequently, the dog suffers from high protein levels in urine.
Unfortunately, puppies suffering from this disease usually die in the first three years of their lives.
Renal dysplasia – This congenital disease means the kidneys can’t mature properly. Consequentially, these organs won’t perform adequately.
Necessary Tests
Responsible breeders use DNA tests, inbreeding coefficient calculators, and screening schemes to breed the healthiest Bull Terriers possible.
The required tests include:
- BAER hearing test, especially for the white variety.
- The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals’ health clearances for heart and thyroid.
- UP: UC (urine protein: urine creatinine) ratios for kidney function when dogs are 18 months old.
Since some health issues appear after full maturity, health clearances are available only in dogs older than two.
Bull Terrier’s life expectancy is approximately 12 to 13 years.
Conclusion
Bull Terrier loves its humans and is incredibly dedicated to its owner. However, this strong-willed and rambunctious dog is not an excellent option for first-time owners and families with toddlers. Keep in mind that some cities and states restrict keeping this breed, so you should inform yourself well before adopting it.
