Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is a breed originating in the United Kingdom that is characterized by its strength, endurance and oval-shaped head. They are intelligent and playful dogs, although, given their large size, strength and protective instinct, it is advised that they be socialized at an early age.

General details

The standard Bull Terrier is 55 centimeters tall, females reach 50 centimeters. As for weight, an adult male Bull Terrier weighs about 38 kilograms, and a female 34 kilograms. The life expectancy of the breed is 12 to 13 years. In addition, they belong to Group 3 of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), which groups Terriers.

Breed history in brief

James Hinks, an Irish poultry and dog breeder was the first to breed the Bull Terrier in 1850. The breed was first exhibited in Birmingham in 1862. It is not well known what crosses Hinks made to get the first Bull Terriers and it is thought that he may have used the Old English Bulldog, the English White Terrier, the Dalmatian and perhaps even the English Greyhound and Borzoi. In the early 19th century, smaller dogs were bred, but were not accepted until World War I and were removed from the Kennel Club register in 1918. In 1938, the Miniature Bull Terrier Club was formed, headed by Colonel Richard Glyn. The standard is the same as that of the Bull Terrier with the exception of the height limit.

Breed characteristics

The Bull terrier is a strong built, muscular, well proportioned and active dog. The characteristic that makes this breed unique is its egg-shaped head, which lacks a fronto-nasal depression. The eyes are small, dark, close together and set far from the tip of the nose. Its ears, which are close together, are small, thin, pointed and upward. Its tail is short and ends in a fine point. The coat of the Bull Terrier is short, rough and dense, it can be white, black, tiger, red, pale or tricolor. The colors accepted in exhibitions are white (with or without black spots on the head). As for his personality, he is a courageous, jovial, affectionate, friendly and funny dog. It has a balanced and obedient temperament, sometimes stubborn. It is a dog that needs a lot of attention, activity and stimuli. It has a strong prey instinct and can become overprotective, so it is recommended that it is properly socialized at an early age.

Common health problems

The OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) recommends evaluating Bull Terriers for patellar luxation, congenital deafness, cardiac and renal function.