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Bull Terrier

Bull Terrier

First bred in 19th-century England, the Bull Terrier is the clown of dogs. Robust and spirited, this playful, fun-loving breed is always ready for a frolic. He loves children, but obedience training is necessary and care must be taken that he does not get overstimulated around younger children. Friendly and affectionate, Bull Terriers thrive on human companionship. This active, well-muscled breed needs daily exercise and has a low-maintenance coat.

DID YOU KNOW? President Theodore Roosevelt owned a Bull Terrier named “Pete.”

ALSO KNOWN AS: Bully, Gladiator, English Bull Terrier

The need-to-know
  • Dog suitable for experienced owners
  • Extra training required
  • Enjoys active walks
  • Enjoys walking an hour a day
  • Medium dog
  • Minimum drool
  • Requires grooming once a week
  • Non hypoallergenic breed
  • Quiet dog
  • Guard dog. Barks and alerts
  • May require training to live with other pets
  • Great family dog

Pet Card

  • Living Considerations: Good with children, not hypoallergenic, suitable for apartment living if adequately exercised
  • Size: Medium/Large
  • Height: 53 to 56 centimetres at the shoulders
  • Weight: 22.5 to 31.5 kilograms
  • Coat: Short
  • Energy: Medium
  • Colour: Any colour or all white
  • Activities: Agility, Obedience, Rally Obedience, Conformation
  • Indoor/Outdoor: Both

Personality

Bull Terriers are friendly dogs with a seemingly wonderful sense of humour. They can be obstinate and are not ideal dogs for the first-time owner. As a breed they are generally placid, but it has to be remembered that they were originally bred as fighting dogs and will react if challenged, but they will not normally make the first move. They are very affectionate dogs and love company, so it is not a good idea to leave them alone for long periods of time as with their strong jaws they can cause lots of damage if bored.

History and Origins

Bred by crossing a bulldog with a terrier, this dog was produced to fight to the death in the bloody sport of bull baiting. They are now one of the most popular dogs in Britain, and have proved to be an impeccable guard dog. The Miniature Bull Terrier breed has existed for as long as the Standard, and was recognised as a separate breed by the British Kennel Club in 1939.

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