Bull Terrier Dogs

A female, adult Bull Terrier standing strong

A brown and white adult Bull Terrier showing off it's pointed ears

A female, adult Bull Terrier with a beautiful physique

A white Bull Terrier puppy with a black ear

Two adult Bull Terriers sitting, content in each others company

A beautiful, brown Bull Terrier, showing off its short, thick coat and pointed ears

A close up of a black Bull Terrier's beautiful pointed ears

A lovely, little, black Bull Terrier playing in the sun

Two lovely, little Bull Terriers playing together in the sun

History

The Bull Terrier has a history of bull baiting and dog fighting. After many crosses over the years, namely Spanish Pointer, English Terrier and Dalmation, the Bull Terrier was created. The dogs became more streamlined and the distinct head was born. The 'All-White Terrier' was popular with young gentlemen and was seen as a good looking, manly dog. In the early 1900's, Bull Terriers were crossed with Staffordshire Bull Terriers to introduce colour back into the breed.

Behaviour

Bull Terriers are clowns. They are playful, foolish, comical and love getting up to no good. They thrive on human contact and will try their hardest to sit on your lap, forgetting how big they are. They have a 'purr' when you cuddle them and are simply fun to have around. Bull Terriers make wonderful pets for a family and are good with children, however they don't settle down until they are at least 3 years old. They have a habit of tearing off and sprinting around the house, knocking over anything in their way. Even with their silly, sweet nature, like most terriers, they can be stubborn. They will seek out and destroy if not kept mentally and physically active; long walks and playtimes are a must for this breed. However, their prey instinct will take over, so walking in a secure area is important. Training needs to be firm and constant. You cannot train your Bull Terrier on an 8 week course and think you're done. The breed will push your boundaries, so a daily training session on walks is vital to prevent this fun loving, independent dog from taking over. Generally a healthy breed, but deafness can be seen in all white animals and kidney problems seem to be associated with the breed. With short fur, grooming is minimal, apart from claw clipping as Terriers' claws seem to grow quickly.

Temperament

Bull terriers have an assertive and playful temperament. It is important to show this breed whose boss through regular training well into adulthood otherwise they will quick to mischief! These dogs are cheeky and comical but will show absolute devotion to their family.

Some Bull terriers will show aggression to other dogs of the same sex and it may not be possible to keep some individuals safely with cats.

Health Problems

Health problems that may affect Bull terriers include patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap), kidney problems, heart problems and in the white varieties deafness can be a problem.