Dog Breeds > Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier is an excellent companion and family pet. Naturally brave and affectionate, it surely melt your heart out once you see this delightful dog breed.
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Fascinating Facts
During the 1800's crossing Bulldogs with terriers were very popular. In 1830, the combat between Bulldogs and bulls were at the peak of its fame. Patrons of this sport decided to make a dog that would attack ferociously. They came up with an idea – they mixed the Bulldog with the Old English Terrier and later crossed with Spanish Pointer blood resulting to the Bull Terrier breed. Later, they found out that the Bull Terriers were not the fighters they expect it to be.
Physical Appearance
The Bull Terrier’s normal height and weight is about 20 – 24 inches and 45 – 80 pounds respectively. This dog is a strongly built, stocky and muscular dog. Its body is well round with a strong and short back. Its head is oval shaped, long and strong and almost flat at the top. Its small nose is black. Its eyes are small, almond-shaped, deep-set and dark in color. The ears are small and thin.
The tail of the Bull Terrier is set low and carried horizontally. Its coat is thick, short, flat and harsh. The AKC recognizes two standard color varieties – the White Bull Terrier and the Colored Bull Terrier. According to the AKC, the White Bull Terrier has colored markings on the head, but not on its body. The Colored Bull Terriers on the other hand may be black, brindle, fawn red, black-brindle and tri-color with white spots.
Grooming
The Bull Terrier’s coat is very easy to groom. Occasional brushing will suffice. This breed is an average shedder, and it sheds twice a year. Remove loose hair by a daily rubdown with a wet chamois or special rubber glove. Bathe only if necessary.
Mood
Although the Bull Terrier was once bred to become a fierce fighter, they are much gentler now. This breed is brave, funny, lively and passionate. The Bull Terrier is also loyal, polite and obedient. Bull Terriers like to be involved with family activities. This dog should not be left alone for 8 hours a day.
Naturally aggressive, this dog can be extremely aggressive with other dogs. This dog is not recommended to live together with other non-canine pets such as rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs. Although this breed is an excellent watch dog, training could be somewhat due to lack of focus.
With Children
The Bull Terriers are good with children. However, parents should not allow small children play with this dog because they might engage it with rough plays. This dog has plenty of stamina and could play with children old enough all day.
Training & Exercise
The Bull Terrier needs consistent firm training and plenty of exercise. Bull Terriers must be given a lot of exercise or else they would become very destructive.
Training might become a little problematic with the Bull Terrier because it lacks focus. Food-reward might help a bit. Remember to be always patient and do not use harsh training techniques for it might snap at any given time.
Health & Life Expectancy
The life expectancy of the Bull Terrier is about 10 – 12 years, depending on how well this breed is taken care of. This breed is prone to slipped patella (dislocation of the kneecaps), heart defects and kidney failure and skin and flea allergies. They are also susceptible to zinc deficiency – an illness that can cause death. The Bull Terriers gains weight easily.
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