Bull Terrier: Temperament, Exercise, Grooming, Health

(English Bull Terrier)

Group: AKC and KCGB Terrier; Mastiff

Also Known As: English Bull Terrier; Standard Bull Terrier; English Standard Bull Terrier

Ranking: 61 in AKC, 18 in KCGB

About Bull Terrier

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A General Appearance of the Dog

The Bull Terrier is a strongly built, muscular dog who is very active and determined. His head is his most distinctive feature – almost flat on top, then a long slope all the way from the forehead to the end of the nose, topped off with large, erect ears.

His eyes are well-sunken and dark with a piercing glint. They are small and obliquely placed. His black nose points downward.

The Bull Terrier is broad, his hips and shoulders are widely set and muscular. His chest is deep and broad. His body is low, set on fairly short, very sturdy legs. The Bull Terrier’s straight legs are set far apart to support his body mass. The Bull Terrier’s horizontally-carried tail is short and pointed.

Coat Color

The coat color of the Bull Terrier can be all white with no other color except on the head, or any color other than white with the ability to have white markings. Most likely colors are black, brindle, red, fawn, and tri-color.

Coat Type

The Bull Terrier’s coat is short, close, stiff to the touch, and very shiny.

Height: 20 - 24 inches

Weight: 45 - 80 lbs

Personality

Temperament of the Dog

The Bull Terrier can make a family pet if care is taken to locate a responsible breeder. The Bull Terrier is courageous, fun-loving, active, and entertaining. He thrives on attention and companionship. And he is very full of life, wanting always to be in the thick of activity.

If thoroughly socialized and trained firmly, Bull Terriers can be obedient and polite. They are very willful and often hard to train. You must carefully consider if you are capable of being his pack leader every minute of his life as he needs someone who really understands the pack mentally and how to be the leader. He must also be in a family where any children do not tease him and have high respect for him and his possessions.

Bull Terriers tend to be very possessive and protective of their things. They usually do not tolerate other pets. They can be a good watchdog.

Because of the domineering, protective nature of the breed, they should never be off lead in the presence of canines that are unfamiliar to them – most are quite dog aggressive. Bull Terriers are too strong for children or older adults to handle in training.

Better suited to an indoor or outdoor lifestyle?

Bull Terriers need to live indoors. They have a number of allergies and skin problems.
They will do okay in an apartment, but they are very active and need long, daily walks. Bull Terriers will be lazy and become overweight if not properly exercised. A small, securely fenced yard is a big help.

Are they suited to homes with kids?

Bull Terriers are not recommended for homes with children as they are not very tolerant.

Activity Level

How Active is the Breed?

This is a very active breed.

Puppies are more energetic than adults. Apartment life is adequate as they find exercise in play but they will still need supplemental walks.

Grooming

Grooming needs are relatively simple and can be done by most owners at home. A regular (monthly) bath and brushing with nail clip will keep its short coat in shape. Rubbing with a piece of toweling or chamois will make the coat gleam. Loose hair can be removed by rubbing the dog with a rubber glove on your hand. They are average shedders except in spring and fall when they shed rather heavily.

Health and Care

Genetic Problems

The health of the Bull Terrier is often very good with responsible breeding but some instances of hereditary cataracts, hip dysplasia and congenital heart disease are found. Sensitivity to cold makes them want to live in warm climates or wear a sweater.

Breeding the Dog and any Cautions

A qualified breeder should be sought to help you find the right mate. This is a difficult breed for breeding and whelping a litter.

Litter Size

Litters are very unpredictable. There can be as few as one puppy or as many as nine puppies.

Life Span: 10 - 12 yrs

National Breed Clubs

British – Bull Terrier Club – www.thebullterrierclub.com
Coloured Bull Terrier Club – www.thecolouredbullterrierclub.co.uk
US – Bull Terrier Club of America – www.btca.com

Other Recognition: CKC, FCI, AKC, CKC, UKC, NKC, NZKC, KCGB, APBR, ANKC, APRI, ACR

Rescue Link: www.btca.com/rescue