Bull Terrier
dog Breed Profile
Bull terriers are extremely powerful dogs.
In this article
Dolichocephalic (long face), upright ears (naturally)
Size
Weight
55-65 lbs.
45-55 lbs.
Height
21 in.
(at withers)
22 in.
Coat
Length
Short
Color
White variety white, with markings on head colored variety any color with white brindle preferred
Care
Exercise
40 minutes/day
Energy level
Very energetic
Longevity
11-14 yrs.
Needs
Moderate
Traits
Low
Low
Drooling
Low
Digging
Low
Grooming Needs
Low
Social Needs
Moderate
Club recognition
AKC Class.
Terrier
UKC Class.
Terrier
Prevalence
Common
Bull terriers are strong and some have aggressive tendencies. Therefore, obedience training is a must.
Bull terriers are extremely powerful dogs.
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Bull terriers are gentle, affectionate and playful with family members. They also are loyal pets that will guard the family. As with any large or tough breed, proper precautions around strangers, children, and other animals is essential.
If not given enough exercise and attention from the owners, Bull terriers can be destructive.
Because the breed is powerful and some members may have aggressive tendencies, Bull Terriers must be obedience trained. They must also be carefully socialized from a young age. Socialization requires frequent supervised exposure to other people and pets in the neighborhood. With proper socialization and training, Bull Terriers make great family pets. However, they probably are not a good choice for novice dog owners, nor are they generally recommended for households with other pets or irresponsible children.
Bull terriers must be exercised daily in a fenced-in yard or with walks on leash and should not be permitted to run free, even if trained and socialized. Because of their stocky build, care must be taken not to overfeed as they can easily become obese.
Bull terriers were developed in England during the 19th century. Around 1835, a cross between the old English terrier and the bulldog produced the Bull Terrier. Later crosses to the Spanish Pointer even later, to the white English terrier and Dalmatian, produced a stylish, tough, white dog. In the mid 1800s, the white version of the breed, known as white cavaliers, became a favorite pet among gentry. Crosses to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier reintroduced color around 1900.
Today, Bull Terriers are gentler than their ancestors but are still strong, fearless dogs. They are primarily family pets, but are not suitable for many families.
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