The appearance of a dog can be misleading and this is not more evident than when it comes to Bull Terriers. Many believe that they are aggressive dogs due to their muscular physique but the lovable bull terrier is actually thriving when being with (and receiving hugs and kisses from) people who are close to them.
“Bull Terriers are adorable clown pets,” says Pam Nichols, DVM, president of the American Animal Hospital Association. “They are funny with a sense of humor, however, they are also very docile. They don’t seem to be particularly attracted by pleasing their owners but they’re cute dogs.”
Although they’re low maintenance in their grooming side, they can be extremely demanding in terms of training and supervising. Bull terriers can be very active since they are puppies through their middle years, earning them the name “the dog in the kid suit.” They are social animals and highly playful, however, they can also be a bit naughty particularly when you leave them to their own devices. Bull terriers are always fascinating and exciting for the owners.
Appearance
The bull terrier is unique eyes like none other. Their heads are egg-shaped and long and sloping downwards to form a Roman nose that is topped off by sharp ears. It’s a fun fact that they’re the only breed registered to have eyes that look like triangles.
In terms of size, bull terriers’ weights can be quite different. Some are on the smaller end, with a weight of 35 pounds, while bigger males can increase their weight to become 75-pound bullies. There are mini bull terriers that were recognized as a distinct breed in the 1990s. They are less weighty than others.
Large-boned dogs, their walk shows their agility and strength. Their coats are composed of flat, short hairs that look shiny and soft to the feel. Bull terriers could be white, even pure white–or colored with different patterns, including more than 20 combinations.
Temperament
Although bull terriers can appear intimidating and tough due to their unique appearance however, they are actually a sweet and friendly breed. They are hilarious and the class clowns of the dog world and their owners are delighted by their hilarious personalities. They are playful and are prone to getting into trouble at the same time. These playful pups are always excited to meet you and interact with other people They are often lively and enthusiastic when they greet you.
They certainly have some personal traits. Because they’re filled with fire and Spink and sprightly personalities, they can be intimidating. They could be more irritable when you’re paying focus on other animals (or even humans! ) or begin to exhibit compulsive behaviors, Nichols says, including running around or obsessively following their shadow or tail. Contact your veterinarian when you observe any of these signs becoming more common.
If you are able to socialize the bull terrier pup while they’re still young, give them enduring and loving training and make sure you provide him with plenty of physical and mental exercises You won’t come across any more loyal or fun puppy. They are able to spend all time they can with you. They can be successful and thrive when they are with an expert dog owner. Their affection for people is extended to people who are not their own.
“Well-socialized bull terriers can be social pets,” Wooten says. “They love getting to know new people and give them lots of affection.”
Living Needs
If you decide to bring an animal that is a bull be prepared to spend a lot of hours with it. They are extremely physically active and require constant companionship throughout the day. The idea of leaving a bull terrier alone can be disastrous as they are prone to be prone to separation anxiety and cause unacceptable behaviors.
A thing you should know about bull terriers is that They eat everything. Therefore, your home must be safe for bull terriers to keep the dog from eating food you shouldn’t. Also, keep him from having emergency veterinary surgery.
They can be very active and play rough, and including a bull terrier in the family of children has to be carefully considered.
“Bull Terriers make excellent pets for families with children who are older,” Wooten says. “Bull terriers can be a lot of fun and aren’t the most suitable choice for families with small children because they could accidentally knock them down.” The older kids who are able to communicate over the bully–never playing with them or pulling their tails–can aid bull terriers in burning off their energy.
Bull terriers can thrive as a sole fur baby however, Wooten states that they are able to live comfortably when they are with dogs from other breeds, particularly in the early years of puppyhood. “Bull Terriers do possess the powerful desire to hunt,” she says. “Which means that they love to hunt small mammals. They are able to be great with cats If they are familiar with them from an early age.”
Care
Since the coat of the bull terrier is glossy and short and shiny, it needs little grooming. Brushing every week using soft-bristle comb assists in removing hairs that are loose and dirty. These ear-shaped ears require to be regularly examined and cleaned whenever required. The bull terrier’s nails must remain short to ensure they don’t feel uncomfortable while walking. They don’t require regular bathing–unless they’ve made an unsanitary mess. They can be cleaned with dry shampoo or wiped clean with a damp cloth.
Remember that Their coats don’t keep them warm during colder temperatures however they aren’t afraid of wearing a pretty coat or sweater in the event that it’s slightly cold. They’ll be more comfortable in warmer weather, but do not leave them unattended for long durations of time. Like all canines, bull terriers don’t sweat as much as humans do. They require lots of water, shaded spots, and air conditioning to stay cool. However, you are able to cut out those ice cubes!
Since they were designed to play and also for companionship It is a good idea to go on walks that are everyday walk that lasts 30-60 minutes. Their agility and strength mean they’re also adept at the training of obedience as well as tracking and agility classes, which are all excellent ways to test their enthusiasm. However, be cautious when you have puppies that are particularly energetic; intense activities like climbing on chairs, prolonged jogs, and playing Frisbee could harm their joints as they develop. They should train their minds, as well as their body and, enjoy the excitement of games that are interactive.
“Bull Terriers are at ease in apartments as well as homes with yards, as long as they are exercised enough,” Wooten says. “If they aren’t getting enough exercise they may become stressed and bored, and may have behavioral issues like chewing on their toys, excessive barking as well as digging.”
Be patient and willing to be a bit silly during the process of training bull terriers. Because of their terrier-like attitude, they place more emphasis on fun over work. When it’s time to do any training be sure that it’s fun for your dog. They will respond positively with positively reinforced training So take out the sweets as well as toys!
Independent thinkers that they are, Wooten says bull terriers can be a challenge to train, so be consistent–especially when house-training. Bull terriers can be trained well-using Crate training that helps keep them from getting into trouble even when you aren’t at home
Health
The average lifespan of bull terriers is between 12 and 14 years old, and like all breeds of dogs, there are a few problems with their health that they could develop as per the Bull Terrier Club of America.
Hereditary Nephritis is a severe type of kidney disease that can be seen in bull terriers from a young age. The condition can cause the kidneys to fail and, in most cases, the dog with this condition will not live until they reach the age of three.
Due to their hairy coat and a piebald coat, bull terriers may suffer from hearing problems that range from partial to complete deafness. They are still able to lead normal lives through specific training and handling. Their distinctive coat, particularly for bull terriers that are all-white could result in contact allergies and skin problems like rashes, sores, and irritations.
Bull terriers can also be afflicted by heart disease which is usually manifested by a murmur in the heart. The distinctive eyes of bull terriers are susceptible to lens luxation that may be managed with surgery or medication but could result in the removal of their eyes.
As previously mentioned that bull terriers are more likely to be afflicted by obsessive-compulsive behaviors which can manifest as pacing, spinning or chasing their tails for hours and hours in the absence of a control. The condition is managed with medication like phenobarbitol anafranil or Prozac in extreme cases, or in milder cases, just removing boredom.
“To make sure that a puppy isn’t suffering from genetic disorders Ask the breeder if breeders test their animals to detect genetic diseases as well … inquire to review the results of these testing,” Wooten says. “Additionally request an assurance of health.”
History
Bull terriers first came into the breed in the 1830s for fighting dogs, probably through crossing a bulldog with the extinct white English terrier as well as the Dalmatian to boost their size According to the Bull Terrier Club. They were regarded as an elite dogfighter in the ring and were praised for their strength and determination.
In the 1860s, when dog fighting was banned and then waned in popularity the bull terriers were developed to be completely white to serve as an elegant male companions. They were called the “New Bull Terrier” and first made an appearance at the exhibition of dogs in 1862. It was presented at the time by James Hinks, who is considered to be the first bull breeder for terriers. They gained the title “White Cavalier” because of their courage and their politeness towards humans and their gentle disposition.
A bull terrier was the first breed that breed was recorded with the American Kennel Club in 1885 The Bull Terrier Club of America was established in 1897. A miniature bull terrier evolved into an independent breed in the year 1992.
There are many famous owners of bull terriers, including general George S. Patton, actor Dolores Del Rio, author John Steinbeck, and President Woodrow Wilson. The most well-known bulldog has to be Patsy Ann who was the greeter of honor for Juneau, Alaska. Patsy Ann was a regular visitor to the docks in Juneau in the 1930s, welcoming sailors and taking pictures with tourists. Her memory lives on in Juneau thanks to a memorial statue that was commissioned in the year 1992.
Fun Facts
- Spuds Mackenzie the bull terrier that slyly gripped in Budweiser commercials during the late 1980s was instrumental in helping to increase the popularity of the breed.
- Target has decided to employ bull terriers as their official spokesperson as well. The company launched Bullsye at the end of 1999, with Target’s Target logo appearing on his eyes, thanks to the non-toxic dye.
- Bull terriers are also prominent in literature and on screen. Bullies have been featured on the screen in Oliver Twist, The Incredible Journey and in the Nancy Drew book series. In actuality, Jumanji and The Polar Express author Chris Van Allsburg includes a bull terrier named “Fritz” in every novel that he writes. In the films, bull terriers have been seen on screen in Toy Story, Frankenweenie, and Next Friday to name a few.