Bull Terrier Dog Breed

The Bull Terrier dog breed, also referred to as the English Bull Terrier, has a dark and violent history dating back to the early 1800s. In a time where dog fighting and Bull baiting were popular sports in Europe, dog fighters were experimenting with various crosses in search of the perfect pit fighter.

They would first cross English Terriers with Bulldogs to produce a formidable canine called the Bull and Terrier in 1835. They felt it lacked size and strength to completely dominate the competition and refined it with crosses to Spanish Pointers.

The fighting dogs developed as a result of the refinement were seemingly unstoppable in the pits. Dog fighting would eventually be banned leaving the Bull and Terriers without purpose, so owners began to breed them purely for looks.

In 1860 a man by the name of James Hinks bred his Bull and Terrier with Dalmatians and White English Terriers to produce the first ever pure white Bull Terriers. They would be further crossed with Staffordshire Bull Terriers in the early 1900s which resulted in a colored variety. Both white and colored varieties are recognized by the AKC and are still bred today.

Bull Terrier Dog Breed: Temperament

These dogs are energetic, and owners will find they will supply endless entertainment and laughter with their antics and stubbornness. They are not known to look for fights with other dogs, but will defend themselves ferociously if needed.

Most make friends with household pets other than dogs, but some owners report them as being aggressive in some instances (Particularly with smaller pets). They will without a doubt become bored if not exercised daily, and may take out their frustration on your belongings.

Bull Terrier Dog Breed: Health

The Bull Terrier is happiest when taken on a walk or jog that is followed up by a game of some sort. Most live indoors, but it is acceptable for them to live outside in moderate climates.

White specimens may suffer from hearing impairment, and other primary concerns for both white and colored varieties include renal dysplasia and hereditary nephritis. Some may also have problems with mitral stenosis, subvascular aortic stenosis, allergies, or compulsory behavior issues.

The average lifespan for this muscle dog is 11-14 years.