10 Incredible Bull Terrier Facts

Written by Jennifer Gaeng
Published: September 10, 2022
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Bull Terriers are a true terrier breed, and miniature Bull Terriers are a smaller version of this breed. Some say there are six “Bull Terriers” types, but we’ll focus on the original breed. Today, this Bull Terrier has a head that is flat, giving it an “egg-shaped” appearance. The profile gradually curves downward from the top of the skull to the dark, curving nose with well-developed nostrils. They have large, muscular shoulders and a round, full body. Want to learn more? Here are 10 incredible Bull Terrier facts!

1.   Bull Terriers Are Celebrity Dogs

Miniature bull terrier isolated on white background

Bull terriers are popular dogs, and some are even famous!

©Ivanova N/Shutterstock.com

The Bull terrier is accustomed to being in the spotlight. A well-known bull terrier named Spuds Mackenzie served as Bud Light’s mascot. Bullseye, the Target dog that has appeared in ads since 1999, was another laid-back bull terrier in the profession.

Like Patsy Ann, a bull terrier who was deaf had an amazing knack for detecting when and where ships were docking. These are a few instances; however, Bull terriers are fairly common and kept by famous people like Taylor Swift.

2.   Bull Terriers Are Known To Chase Their Tail

Miniature bull terrier puppy sitting on grass

Bull terriers tend to chase their tails.

©Nantasit Rungrattawatchai/Shutterstock.com

It may be endearing to observe a person chase their tail, but it could also indicate that they suffer from an obsessive personality disorder. According to studies, bull terriers are far more likely than any other breed to pursue their tails compulsively.

Other symptoms of the illness include obsessive pacing and a tendency to chase after shadows. In addition to self-mutilation and self-licking, obsessive-compulsive behavior can manifest as these behaviors. Consult your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s behavior.

3.   They Are Well-Known for Their Egg Shaped Head

Two miniature bull terriers on the grass playing outside

Bull terriers are known for their stout bodies and egg-shaped heads.

©GoDog Photo/Shutterstock.com

Bull Terriers are renowned for having quite unusual looks. Their “egg-shaped” skull is said to be their most distinctive characteristic. Their lower jaw is powerful and deep, and their triangular, sunken, and piercing black eyes are unique among registered breeds. They also have pointed ears.

Their back is short and robust, and their body is full of shoulders with lots of muscle. The tail is borne horizontally, is short, thick at the root, and tapers to a fine point. Their coat might be white, red, fawn, black, brindle, or any combination of these colors.

4.   Bull Terriers Are Mostly A Very Healthy Breed

Miniature Bull Terrier dog lying on a fur rug on the living room floor

Bull terriers live up to 14 years and are generally healthy dogs.

©Kuznetsov Alexey/Shutterstock.com

The Bull terrier has an average lifespan of 10 to 14 years and is generally healthy. However, they could be predisposed to some genetic health issues. Heart disease, hearing loss, and vision are among the health issues. One dog breed with bald coats is the bull terrier. Like Dalmatians, they, too, can lose their hearing. Despite the notion that deaf dogs may be bred out of the gene pool, some breeders nevertheless used them.

If you have a puppy in your home, you should take precautions to prevent obesity, one of the most prevalent health issues. Because bull terriers eat a lot, monitoring their weight is crucial. One of the best methods to lengthen a Bull Terrier’s life is to keep them at a healthy weight. If any issues develop, it’s a good idea to speak with a veterinarian.

5.   Sadly, Bull Terriers Were Bred to Fight

Miniature bull terrier purebred dog in the park

Bull terriers are a cross between bulldogs and terriers. Sadly, they were originally bred to fight.

©Marcelino Pozo Ruiz/Shutterstock.com

As implied by its name, Bull Terriers are a cross between bulldogs and terriers, producing a fighter with exceptional tenacity. The contemporary Bull Terrier was developed and standardized by Englishmen in the early 1860s from the Bull-and-Terrier, an ancient fighting breed that was a Bulldog-terrier cross. Since their AKC recognition in 1885, Bull Terriers have gained popularity among Americans.

Bull-baiting was outlawed in the 1830s, but some people who liked the idea of a bloody spectacle kept doing it. Some people sought a way to break the law without being caught. Bull-baiting had been prohibited for a while; therefore, dog fighting became the popular bloodsport. Bulldogs proved too slow to be much of an attraction in the bloody competitions, so breeders reasoned that combining the terrier’s tenacious tenacity and agility with the bulldog’s physical force would produce the best fighting pit dog.

Dog fighting and other blood sports were prohibited in England not long after this. The unemployed Bull Terrier unexpectedly gained popularity among young gentlemen in the middle of the 1800s. Although today’s Bull Terriers are far friendlier than their ancestors, they are still strong canines.

6.   Bull Terriers Need To Be Trained

Miniature bull terrier close-up

Bull terriers thrive best in a home environment with proper training.

©Pointofviewtime/Shutterstock.com

Early education is crucial for Bull terriers, and you must be able to act as a leader without using force or stern language. They can thrive in various sports, including agility, freestyle, weight pulling, and carting, as well as jobs like bomb detection, search-and-rescue, service, and even therapy dogs, if properly trained positively with compassion and humor.

Although they are members of the Terrier Group, bull terriers possess the fortitude and bravery of the bulldog. They are independent free thinkers that like to have fun. Consequently, they should enjoy their training. They are a challenging breed to train, so you’ll get the best results if you play to their desire for play while being strict and consistent, giving them food and toys as good reinforcement.

7.   Bull Terriers Are High Energy Dogs

White bull terrier in grass

The Bull terrier is a naturally energetic dog who loves to play and becomes quite attached to loved ones.

©24K-Production/Shutterstock.com

Bull Terriers are energetic dogs who enjoy rough play. They are not appropriate for households with young children because they were initially developed as combat dogs. Active dogs enjoy being engrossed in activities challenging their bodies and minds. These males don’t like being alone and are quite attached to their families. You must always keep a close check on them whenever you are out in public since they tend to chase any dog, cat, or squirrel that catches their attention.

8.   There Are Miniature Bull Terriers

White bll terrier puppy

Miniature bull terriers only reach a height of 14 inches

©Elisabeth Hammerschmid/Shutterstock.com

A smaller breed of bull terrier only reaches a height of 14 inches and a weight range of 24 to 34 pounds. The only distinction between miniature and standard bull terriers is size. These mini canines are also hypoallergenic and shed considerably less than their larger counterparts.

9.   They Are Attention Needy, But Low Maintenance Dogs

Bull terriers

Bull Terriers are pretty low maintenance despite their attached nature

©Pleple2000, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons – License

Anyone can groom a Bull terrier because it is a simple chore. They have a little canine odor and are naturally clean. It’s a good idea to take a bath with a gentle shampoo every three months. Only a weekly rubber mitt or curry brush brushing is necessary for their beautiful coat. The only exception is when they shed twice a year when daily brushing is required to keep all the hair under control.

Every week, you should inspect them and clean them with a cleanser your vet or your dog’s breeder would recommend. It is sufficient to trim toenails once a month. When your Bull Terrier is a young puppy, introduce grooming so they can learn to tolerate the handling and fuss.

  10. They Have A Lot Of Personality

Bull terrier at the beach

Bull terriers are not best for novice dog owners because of their needy, outgoing nature.

©Garciaargos / Creative Commons

Bull Terriers are not suggested for inexperienced dog owners due to their outgoing personalities, independence, and a tendency for stubbornness. They have a stable disposition and are simple to control. They may be obstinate, but they have a distinct talent for interacting with people.

Bull terriers get along well with family members and like playing. They are loving pets and will defend the family. They’ll zealously defend their families and their belongings. They may become aggressive and protect their food, toys, and living space. Avoid promoting violent behavior; early behavior modification is necessary to prevent serious behavioral difficulties.

They have a reputation for being brave and fun-loving. These are excellent traits, but they risk being grating if they become possessive or jealous. If their owners don’t give them enough exercise and attention, these animals may cause trouble.

Related Animals:

Pitbull

Bulldog

Miniature Bull Terrier

The photo featured at the top of this post is © otsphoto/Shutterstock.com

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About the Author

Jennifer Gaeng is a writer at A-Z-Animals focused on animals, lakes, and fishing. With over 15 years of collective experience in writing and researching, Jennifer has honed her skills in various niches, including nature, animals, family care, and self-care. Hailing from Missouri, Jennifer finds inspiration in spending quality time with her loved ones. Her creative spirit extends beyond her writing endeavors, as she finds joy in the art of drawing and immersing herself in the beauty of nature.

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Sources
  1. Wikipedia, Available here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bull_Terrier
  2. Daily Paws, Available here: https://www.dailypaws.com/dogs-puppies/dog-breeds/bull-terrier
  3. Dogtime (1970)