Bull Terrier

Standard Bull Terrier Characteristics

About the Bull Terrier Dog

The Bull Terrier, also known as the English Bull Terrier, was developed in Great Britain in the 1800’s to be a dog fighter and a companion dog.

Today the breed is used only as a companion dog.

Small, fun loving and silly describe the Bull Terrier. The toughness in the breed has been bred out over the generations. They are loyal to the owners and are very obedient when a command is given to them. They crave affection and are very attached to their owners. They need to be with families that are home a lot and tend to get into trouble when left alone for extended periods of time. They tolerate teasing from children but when roughhousing, they will try to join in. They can be very aggressive with other dogs and unaltered males usually don’t tolerate other male dogs. They make terrific watchdogs but can be difficult to train.

Known for their trademark egg shaped head, this dog has a very long muzzle. It is slightly curved downwards from the skull to the tip of the black nose. The forehead is flat from ear to ear. Their lips should be clean and tight. Their ears are small and placed close together. When at attention, they point upwards. Their dark triangular eyes are sunken in and placed close together on the head. The neck is very muscular, long and arched while the chest is broad and deep. Their legs are short and are very muscular. Their feet are round and compact with well arched toes. Their tail is short, carried horizontally and is set low. Their coat is short, and flat and should fit tightly. Acceptable colors are white, fawn, red, tricolor, or brindle.

Though they are generally healthy, some Bull Terriers are prone to obsessive compulsive behaviors, some have vitamin deficiencies, and the white Bull Terriers are prone to deafness.

Bull Terriers are prefer warm climates, are fairly active indoors and require daily exercise. They need to be on a leash at all times because they will fight with other dogs if given the chance.