Bull Terrier
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Appearance
| Bull Terrier Quick Summary | |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | English Bull Terrier |
| Origin | England |
| Size | Medium-Large |
| Height (at withers) | 21-24in (53-61cm) |
| Weight | 50-85lbs (23-39kg) |
| Hair Colour(s) | Varies |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Energy Level | Medium |
| Litter size | 1-9 |
| Shedding | Medium |
| Grooming | Low |
| Barking Tendency | Low |
| Exercise requirements | Medium |
| Ease of training | Low |
| Suitability for kids | Low |
| Animal compatability | Medium |
| Aggression levels | Medium |
| Distress if left | High |
The Bull Terrier is a medium to large sized dog with a bold looking build, although they also come in a miniature variety. The body is well rounded, strong and muscular with a deep chest, well sprung ribs, straight forelegs and a short tail often carried horizontally. The egg-shaped head is its most distinctive feature, being flat with a Roman muzzle, unique triangular-shaped eyes and short erect ears. The coat is short and course, and the colouring can vary but includes white, black, brindle and tricolours amongst others.
Temperament
Bull Terriers are active, fun-loving and fearless dogs. Once known as fierce gladiators, these are affectionate dogs that become very attached to their owners and will not hesitate to defend a loved one when called upon. As a result they do make loyal companions and family pets, but must be properly socialised asd trained early on. They can be stubborn and require firm and consistent leadership, as well as affection, and are more suited to those with some exprieince of dog ownership and training. Bull Terriers are very affectionate and are noted for their fondness towards young children; however, these are powerful dogs that can also be possessive, protective, jealous, and may even join in with family quarrels. These dogs can be very energetic if not exercised properly and are not suitable for small kids; they are only suitable for older, more considerate children. They will require early socialisation around other pets, and are fine with dogs of the oppsoite sex but are best neutered if they are to be around other male dogs. A couple of peculiar habits specific to this breed are called trancing and freaking. Trancing occurs if a bush or table cloth brushes over their backs, and they will look like they are sleepwalking with a glazed look. Freaking is where they suddenly take of a full speed towards something (or someone) and then dodge at the last minute - it is advisable for people to keep still during this so as not to be hit. These are protetive dogs and so they make relatively effective guard and watchdogs.
History & Skills
Bull Terriers originate from England, and are a combination of Bulldogs and Terriers. When bullbaiting was outlawed in England in 1835 and dog fighting became more popular, there was a need for smaller fighting dogs that could easily be hidden under an overcoat should the police suddenly arrive on the scene. The Bull and Terrier cross combined the agility and alertness of the Terrier with the power and high pain threshold of the Bulldog, and earned the repuation of being a canine gladiator. The breed was standardised by a dog dealer called James Hinks, and first appeared in its present form in May 1862 at a show in Birmingham. A mix of Bulldogs, the English White Terrier (sadly extinct) and Dalmatian, his "White Cavalier" quickly gained popularity. Today they remain popular as pets and companions.
Breed Specific Ailments
Bull Terriers tend to live between 10 to 12 years. Some of the health problems noted in this breed includes patella luxation and deafness at birth.
Grooming
Bull Terriers are medium shedders, and so may not be suited to those suffering with allergies. Their grooming requirements are not high and they only require occasional brushing, although this will need stepping up as they shed more heavily twice a year.
Exercise & Environment
Bull Terriers tend to live indoors as they like to be warm and can be suitable for small homes such as apartments, as long as they are given enough exercise. A brisk walk and adequate chance to play are essential, as this breed can gain weight rapidly.