The Bull Terrier is a strongly built, muscular dog. The body is well rounded with a short, strong back.
In the early 1800s Bulldogs crossed with terriers were popular. By 1830 combat between Bulldogs and bulls were at the height of their popularity. Lovers of this so-called "sport" decided to create a dog that would attack even more agilely.
They crossed the Bulldog with the Old English Terrier, adding in some Spanish Pointer blood; the result was the Bull Terrier breed. They soon found that the Bull Terriers were not the most successful fighters. In 1860 the white-coated variety, which was nicknamed the "White Cavalier" was bred by English dog dealer James Hinks and soon became a fashionable pet for nobles.
The colored variety of Bull Terriers was created by back-crossing them with brindle Staffordshires. The breed has been used as a guard, ratter, herder and watchdog. The Miniature was developed to have the same qualities as the Standard Bull Terrier but with a more manageable size. The Standard Bull Terrier was first recognized by the AKC in 1885 and the Miniature Bull Terrier in 1991.
While the AKC sees the Standard Bull Terrier and the Miniature Bull Terrier as separate breeds, the standard requirements are the same except for size.
Most other clubs see them as different varieties of the same breed or the same breed without placing a variety label.
Once a fierce gladiator, they are much gentler now.
It was never bred to be a guard dog.
Courageous, scrappy, fun-loving, active, clownish and fearless.
Loyal, polite, and obedient dog.
Become very attached to their owners.
Love to be given tasks and be busy.
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.
Not recommended for most households.
Fond of both grownups and children, but if they do not get enough physical and mental exercise they may be too energetic for small children.
They can be extremely aggressive with other dogs. Unaltered males may not get along with other male dogs.
They are not recommended with other non-canine pets such as rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs.
They make excellent watch dogs.
This breed can be somewhat difficult to train.
This breed needs vigorous daily exercise.
The Bull Terrier has a tendency to become overweight and lazy if it is not properly exercised.
Prone to slipped patella (dislocation of the kneecaps), heart defects, kidney failure and skin and flea allergies.
The Bull Terrier is easy to groom. An occasional combing and brushing will do. This breed is an average shedder, shedding twice a year.