BULL TERRIER
APPEARANCE
Bull Terriers are thick-set and muscular with a short, dense coat. The Bull Terrier’s most recognizable feature is its head, described as ‘egg shaped’ when viewed from the front, almost flat at the top, with a Roman muzzle sloping evenly down to the end of the nose with no stop. The coloring of the Bull Terrier can be pure white, white with black patches, black and tan, fawn, and brindle. His ears stand erect, and his eyes look quite tiny in relation to the length of his muzzle. The weight of the Bull Terrier is around 30-80 pounds, and the height is around 15-22 inches.
PERSONALITY
They are typically very affectionate dogs that love human company. This is a breed that needs to be properly socialized early on, as they can otherwise have an aggressive nature. The Bull Terrier has a dominant personality, and for this reason is best suited to those with some experience of dog ownership. The Bull Terrier is a very polite breed that is naturally obedient, however does need extensive training and requires a great deal of companionship.
TRAINING
Being somewhat willful and very independent, the Bull Terrier can be difficult to train. This breed will need an owner that is strict, firm, consistent and willing to put in hard work and discipline. They are very smart dogs but have a stubborn attitude at times that cannot be ignored. You will need to reinforce your leadership through assertive and confident training and handling.
EXERCISE
The Bull Terrier will need long walks every day to ensure they are getting the proper amount of exercise. At least a medium sized yard would work best as this breed has almost infinite energy. The Bull terrier makes a great jogging companion or hiking friend. Since the Bull terrier is dog aggressive it is very important to keep these dogs on a leash as they may fight other dogs or even chase other animals with no regard towards traffic.
SOCIALIZATION
Instinctive fighters, the Bull Terrier is usually aggressive towards other dogs and can be a danger around smaller animals such as cats and rabbits, seeing them as prey. The Bull Terrier can be okay around children, but is not recommended with younger kids, and should definitely be socialized early on. Fiery, energetic, and loving, this breed can also be protective of his owner and his territory, giving off somewhat of a fearless presence. This breed makes a good watch and/or guard dog.
LIVING CONDITIONS
This breed is okay to live an apartment with a small yard, for its regular exercise needs. The Bull Terrier can adapt to outdoor living in temperate climates, though it prefers living inside.
GROOMING
A weekly rub down with a rubber grooming mitt or stiff bristle brush is all that is required. Hand plucking may be necessary for dead hairs, but is usually cared for with a brush or comb. This breed is an average shedder, shedding only around twice a year. Checking the ears and the eyes for any sign of irritation or discharge at this time is also important. These dogs are very clean and do not require regular bathing unless it is required.
HEALTH ISSUES
The life expectancy of the Bull Terrier is around 11-14 years. Some white Bull Terriers carry the Dalmatian’s deafness gene. Other health issues in the breed include hereditary neprhitis, cystic kidney disease, renal dysplasia, SAS, mitral stenosis, dilated cardiomyopathy and allergies.
HISTORY
The Bull Terrier originated in England and were bred for fighting bulls but later became a companion breed. They are a mixture of the English Bulldog, Spanish Pointer and English Terrier resulting in a muscular, agile dog. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1885.
