The Bull Terrier is an easily recognizable dog breed. The moment you see one, you’ll know it’s them, because of their long, egg-shaped head with erect and pointed ears, and small, triangular eyes.
This breed is also quite popular, according to the AKC they rank 62 out of 197 breeds! But what else is it that makes the Bull Terrier a good dog and would they even be a good choice for you?
ALSO READ Big Dogs: Pros, Cons & The 5 Best Big Dog Breeds
In today’s article, we’re going to explore this breed’s personality, character, needs, and how they are health-wise. If you’re thinking about getting a dog, or a Bull Terrier, in particular, you might want to take a look.
Learning about this breed could make your decision about which breed to get easier!
Bull Terrier – Breed Info
Bull Terriers are playful and charming dogs, but they can also be a bit mischievous!
These dogs come in two color varieties: white and colored.
White Bull Terriers are solid white, with or without colored markings on the head. Colored Bull Terriers are any color other than white or any color with white markings.
This breed comes in a variety of sizes and their weight can range from 35 to 75 pounds!
ALSO READ Portuguese Water Dog: Breed Characteristics & Info
However, generally speaking, males weigh between 55 and 65 pounds. Females on the other hand weigh from 45 to 55 pounds.
When it comes to their height, they are between 21 and 22 inches at the shoulder.
We also have the Miniature Bull Terrier or Mini Bully. These dogs are between 10 and 14 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh about 25 to 33 pounds.
Personality
“A kid in a dog’s suit” is what a lot of people call the Bull Terrier! And for good reason too.
This breed is super active, but friendly, and loves to act like a clown and make its humans laugh. But besides being a little clown, they are very intelligent and smart too!
Bull Terriers are busy dogs and love to do something with their family! This is why they need an active family. Someone who can give them plenty of energetic play sessions.
ALSO READ Boston Terrier: What makes them so popular?
Besides this, the Bull Terrier needs someone who will enforce the house rules consistently. If not, there is a chance that they will make up rules of their own and completely ignore yours.
Another problem you might have with them is the fact that they can be aggressive toward other animals, especially other dogs! This is why they need very early socialization.
They won’t show this aggressive behavior if they get enough positive, supervised exposure to other dogs in early puppyhood.
Care and exercise
Leaving a Bull Terrier alone and unsupervised for long periods of time is a very bad idea! They might destroy your furniture and eat anything they can find! Because of this many dogs die from gastrointestinal blockages that aren’t discovered until it’s too late.
Now, when it comes to exercise you should know that these dogs are very active and full of energy! They need at least half an hour of exercise daily, but an hour of active exercise would be ideal!
By exercise, we don’t only mean physical, but mental exercise and stimulation too! So, walks, runs, hikes, chasing a ball, and buying good interactive toys is a must!
ALSO READ Blue Heeler or Australian Cattle Dog Breed Info
For Bull Terriers early and consistent training is very important! Be aware that they aren’t the easiest breed to train.
So to make it a bit easier for both of you, use positive reinforcement techniques. But, keep in mind that you will still have to remain firm and consistent in what you expect.
Grooming and health
Generally speaking, Bull Terriers are quite easy to groom! Their coat is short, flat, and shiny, but with a hard texture. They need only weekly brushing with a rubber mitt or curry brush.
However, just like any other dog, they do shed sometimes. So, during their twice yearly shedding season, you will need to brush them daily to keep the hairs under control.
Bull Terriers also don’t need frequent bathing! Of course, unless they’ve rolled around in something stinky. Usually, you can wash them with a dry shampoo or just with a damp washcloth.
Bull terriers are generally healthy, but like any breed, they can have health issues such as:
- Hereditary Nephritis
- Deafness
- Heart Disease
- Skin Problems
- Spinning
- Lens luxation
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bull Terrier is a very interesting looking, but amazingly smart and loyal dog.
Unlike other breeds, like the Golden Retriever for example, this breed isn’t really high maintenance when it comes to grooming and taking care of.
Also, given the fact that they need quite a bit exercise daily, they will keep you fit too!