Bull Terrier

A playful, powerful companion with a mind of its own

A Bull Terrier may carry a toy around with great enthusiasm, squeeze onto the sofa beside its person and then become determined to investigate a scent on the next walk. Its attachment to people comes with a strong will. Enjoying an exuberant dog also means being willing to practise the everyday habits that make living together comfortable.

The breed developed in nineteenth-century Britain from bulldogs and terriers. Some of its early ancestors were used in animal fighting. James Hinks refined the type during the 1850s and exhibited it in Birmingham in 1862. Today the Bull Terrier is a companion dog. Its short back, strong muscles, small upright ears and distinctive head give it a very different outline from many other terriers.

The international canine federation FCI sets no fixed height or weight. The American Kennel Club describes adult Bull Terriers as approximately 53 to 56 centimetres tall at the shoulder and 23 to 32 kilograms in weight. Its strength needs thoughtful handling during play and on the lead. An adult should supervise time with young children and help the dog take a quiet break when needed.

Everyday life

Varied walks, time to investigate scents and shared games suit a Bull Terrier. Many enjoy carrying something, searching or working through a task with their person. A sturdy food toy can make part of a meal more interesting. Using some of the normal food allowance helps keep these activities from adding extra calories every day.

Short training sessions work well when the reward matters to the dog. Instead of repeatedly pushing it away when it jumps up, you could practise greeting with all four paws on the ground and reward that moment. Coming back when called, walking on a loose lead and willingly exchanging a toy are useful skills too. A quiet setting is the best place to introduce them. With practice, they can become part of ordinary outings.

Many Bull Terriers chase cats or smaller animals. Rabbits and other small pets should therefore have physically separate accommodation. Meetings with dogs depend on the individuals and should begin with a controlled introduction. Learning to cope with time alone also takes gradual practice. Longer absences need suitable care. A Fellfolio handover can keep favourite games, feeding arrangements and useful walking guidance together for the carer.

Everyday dog training: recall, a loose lead and clear communication ↗

Day-to-day care

A soft brush or suitable grooming mitt can remove loose hair from the short, smooth coat. Grooming also makes it easier to notice changes in the skin. Checking nails and ears and brushing the teeth with dog toothpaste belong in the routine. A young dog should learn to accept handling through friendly, gradual practice.

Choosing chew items and toys deserves particular attention. Bull Terriers have strong jaws and may swallow pieces they tear off. Toys should suit the dog's size and be checked regularly for damage. Socks, small children's toys and soft plastic objects should be kept out of reach. A claim that a toy is especially tough should be followed by a careful look at the actual item and how your own dog uses it.