Description:
The Bull Terrier is a loyal, affectionate, loving, and humerous dog. It is strong-willed and, therefore, is not the ideal choice of dog for a first-time dog owner. The ideal owners would be a family that loves horseplay, racing, and games like frisbee. The Bull Terrier has the potential to become a first-class companion dog, but in the wrong hands it can turn out to be a horrid disaster.
Height:
20 - 22 inches
Weight:
52 - 62 lbs.
Colors:
Solid white, fawn, brindle, black, red
Coat:
Short and dense.
Temperament:
Though this breed was once a fierce gladiator, he is much gentler now. A Bull Terrier might have a preventive effect and it might defend it's owner in a truly critical situation, but it isn't breed to be a guard dog. Courageous, scrappy, fun-loving, active, clownish and fearless. The Bull Terrier is a loyal, polite, and obedient dog. They become very attached to their owners. The Bull Terrier thrives on affection and makes a fine family pet. Bull Terriers like to be doing something and fit in well with active families where they receive a great deal of companionship and supervision. They do not do well in situations where they are left alone for 8 hours a day. This breed can be a wonderful pet if very thoroughly socialized and trained, but not recommended for most households. Fond of both grown-ups and children, but may be too energetic for small children. They cannot tolerate teasing and children should be taught to respect the dog. They can be very protective and willful. Do not encourage this breed to be possessive or jealous. Bull Terriers may try to join into family rough housing or quarrel. They need very firm training and lots of exercise. Bull Terriers must be given a lot of companionship, or they may become destructive. Be sure to socialize them well. They can be extremely aggressive with other dogs. Unaltered males usually do not get along with other male dogs. Males and females can live together happily and two females can also be a good combination with care and supervision. They are not recommended with other pets. They make excellent watch dogs. This breed can be somewhat difficult to train.
Care and Exercise:
Brush coat with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary. Rubbing of the coat will keep it shiny and clean. Needs plenty of exercise, keep on a leash when in public. Puppies need early socialization to prevent them from becoming dominant.
Health Issues:
Hereditary zinc deficiency. Some puppies are born deaf.
History/Origin:
At one time a ferocious fighter, the Bull Terrier was bred aoround 1830 by crossing the English Bulldog with the now extinct White English Terrier. The aim was to get a lighter, more agile fighting dog. They were successful, but by now the breed has become a polite and obedient dog, with an irresistible sense of humor.
Category:
Terrier
Registries:
UCA, AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 3), KC (GB), UKC