English Bull Terrier

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Size

Medium

Life span

14 Years

Weight

29 Kg

Group

Terrier Dogs

English Bull Terrier Overview

This dog breed belongs to the terrier dog breed group. Their looks are often deceiving as the English Bull Terrier is a sweet natured dog with a wonderful temperament. They're eager to please and keen to learn new tricks. You can lots of fun with the Bull Terrier as they're very active and playtime is their favourite hobby. The English Bull Terrier is very protective of their family and loyal to their owner.

The Bull Terrier colour comes in either brindle and white, tri-colour, white, red and white, fawn and white and brindle. The Bull Terrier weighs between 22-38kg and height between 45-55cm.

English Bull Terrier Characteristics

Size InformationIntelligence
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Size InformationExercise Needs
  • 5
Size InformationDogs Health
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Size InformationChild Friendly
  • 5
Size InformationApartment
  • 4
Size InformationShedding
  • 3
Size InformationGrooming Needs
  • 5
Size InformationBarking
  • 1
Size InformationAlone
  • 2
Size InformationTrainability
  • 5
Size InformationEnergy Levels
  • 4
Size InformationDog friendly
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English Bull Terrier Facts - Did you know?

  1. English Bull Terriers were originally bred for blood sports, such as bull-baiting and dog-fighting, but were later developed as companion dogs.

  2. The unique egg-shaped head of the English Bull Terrier is one of its most distinctive features, and is the result of selective breeding.

  3. The English Bull Terrier was one of the first breeds to be recognized by the Kennel Club in the UK, and was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885.

  4. The English Bull Terrier was the mascot of Target stores in the United States from 1999 to 2015, with the famous dog Bullseye appearing in numerous commercials and advertisements.

  5. The English Bull Terrier has appeared in numerous films, TV shows, and books over the years, including the book and movie adaptation of "The Incredible Journey."

  6. Famous owners of English Bull Terriers have included Winston Churchill, who owned a Bull Terrier named Rufus, and the singer Freddie Mercury, who had several Bull Terriers throughout his life.

  7. In the UK, English Bull Terriers are sometimes called "Gladiators" due to their muscular build and powerful appearance.

  8. Despite their tough exterior, English Bull Terriers are known for their playful and affectionate personalities, and are often described as "clowns" for their comical antics.

  9. English Bull Terriers have been used in search and rescue operations due to their excellent sense of smell and determination.

  10. The English Bull Terrier is a highly intelligent breed that requires plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Pros

  1. Loyal: English Bull Terriers are fiercely loyal to their owners and make great companions.

  2. Playful: These dogs are known for their playful and fun-loving nature. They enjoy playing and are great with children.

  3. Brave: English Bull Terriers are known for their bravery and will protect their family if they sense any danger.

  4. Affectionate: These dogs love attention and affection from their owners and will often snuggle up with them on the couch.

  5. Easy to groom: English Bull Terriers have a short, easy-to-maintain coat that requires minimal grooming.

  6. Unique appearance: With their distinctive egg-shaped head and muscular body, English Bull Terriers are sure to turn heads wherever they go.

  7. Intelligent: English Bull Terriers are intelligent and can be trained to do a variety of tasks, including obedience training and agility courses.

  8. Great watchdogs: English Bull Terriers have a natural instinct to protect their family and make excellent watchdogs.

Cons

  1. Stubbornness: Bull Terriers can be strong-willed and stubborn, which can make training a challenge. Patience and consistency are key to successful training.

  2. High energy: Bull Terriers are known for their high energy levels and need for daily exercise. They may not be the best fit for apartment living or for people who don't have the time or energy to commit to regular exercise.

  3. Health issues: Like many purebred dogs, English Bull Terriers are prone to certain health issues such as deafness, allergies, and heart problems. It's important to have regular vet check-ups and to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings.

  4. Strong prey drive: Bull Terriers were originally bred for bull-baiting and still retain a strong prey drive. This means they may not be the best fit for homes with smaller pets, such as cats or rabbits.

  5. Potential for aggression: While English Bull Terriers are generally friendly and affectionate towards people, they can sometimes display aggression towards other dogs. Socialization and training can help minimize this risk, but it's important to be aware of the breed's tendencies.

History & Origin

The English Bull Terrier is a breed of dog that has an interesting history and origin. It is believed to have originated in England in the mid-19th century when breeders crossed the Bulldog with the now-extinct White English Terrier. The goal was to create a dog that was strong, agile, and could perform well in dog fighting and ratting.

Initially, the breed was known as the Bull and Terrier, but as the popularity of dog fighting began to decline, breeders shifted their focus to developing a companion dog. The White English Terrier was bred out of the bloodline, and the Bulldog was further refined to create the English Bull Terrier that we know today.

The breed was officially recognized by the Kennel Club in 1860, and the first standard for the breed was established in 1877. The breed quickly gained popularity in England and became a favorite of sportsmen, farmers, and even royalty.

The breed was first introduced to the United States in the 1880s and quickly gained popularity. However, during World War II, the breed's popularity declined as many families could no longer afford to keep pets. By the 1960s, the breed had regained its popularity in the United States and has remained a popular breed ever since.

Despite their early history in dog fighting, English Bull Terriers today are known for their loving and loyal personalities, and are often kept as beloved family pets. They are also used in a variety of activities, including agility competitions and obedience training.

English Bull Terrier Appearance

English Bull Terriers are a distinctive breed with a unique appearance. They have a muscular and athletic build, with a short, dense coat that is smooth and glossy. Their coat can come in a range of colours, including white, brindle, fawn, and black.

One of the most striking features of the English Bull Terrier is their egg-shaped head, which is round and symmetrical with a deep, down-faced muzzle. They have small, triangular eyes that are positioned close together and set deeply into their skull, giving them a piercing and intense gaze. Their ears are usually small and erect, but can also be folded over.

English Bull Terriers have a powerful and compact body, with a broad chest and a deep ribcage. They have a short and sturdy neck, and their limbs are strong and muscular, with round, compact feet. Their tail is short and carried horizontally, and is often docked when the dog is young.

English Bull Terrier Temperament

English Bull Terriers are known for their unique and distinctive temperament. They are a mix of strong and protective, yet playful and silly, making them a popular choice for families. They are generally loyal, affectionate, and enjoy being around people. However, they can also be stubborn and have a tendency towards aggression towards other animals, particularly dogs. It is important to socialise and train them properly from a young age to prevent any unwanted behavior.

English Bull Terriers are also known for their high energy levels and need for daily exercise. They love to play and run around, so a good-sized yard or daily walks are essential to keep them happy and healthy. They are also intelligent dogs and thrive on mental stimulation, so training and puzzle toys are great ways to keep them mentally active.

English Bull Terrier Training

English Bull Terriers are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. However, they can also be stubborn and independent at times, so consistency and patience are essential in their training. Early socialization is also crucial to prevent any aggressive behavior towards other dogs or strangers.

Basic obedience training, such as sit, stay, and come, should start as early as possible. Bull Terriers can also excel in advanced training activities such as agility, obedience, and even some types of scent work.

It's important to keep training sessions short and engaging, as Bull Terriers can quickly become bored with repetitive activities. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise, treats, and playtime, work best with this breed. Harsh training methods are not recommended and can lead to fear or aggression issues.

Because of their high energy levels, Bull Terriers also require plenty of physical exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Daily walks and playtime in a secure, fenced yard are essential for keeping them physically and mentally stimulated.

Grooming

The English Bull Terrier has a short, smooth coat that is easy to maintain. However, regular grooming is still necessary to keep your pet's coat in good condition. Brushing your Bull Terrier's coat once or twice a week with a firm bristle brush will help remove loose hair and prevent matting. Bathing your Bull Terrier should be done only when necessary, as over-bathing can dry out their skin and strip the coat of its natural oils.

Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing are also essential for your Bull Terrier's grooming needs. As with any breed, it is important to start these grooming routines early on in your dog's life to get them accustomed to the process.

In addition to regular grooming, you should also pay attention to your Bull Terrier's physical health. Keep their eyes and ears clean and monitor for any signs of skin issues, such as rashes or hot spots. Regular visits to the veterinarian for check-ups and vaccinations are also important for maintaining your Bull Terrier's overall health and well-being.

Health

The English Bull Terrier is generally a healthy breed with a life expectancy of around 10-12 years. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues that potential owners should be aware of.

One of the most common health issues in English Bull Terriers is deafness. About 20% of white Bull Terriers are born deaf in one or both ears. This is due to the absence of pigment cells in the inner ear. Responsible breeders will test their breeding stock for deafness and only breed from dogs that have been tested clear.

Another health issue that English Bull Terriers can be prone to is skin allergies, which can cause itching, redness, and hair loss. These allergies can be triggered by a variety of factors, including food, environmental allergens, and fleas. Regular grooming and keeping the dog's living environment clean can help reduce the likelihood of skin allergies.

Other health issues that can affect English Bull Terriers include kidney disease, heart problems, and eye conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma. It's important for owners to be aware of the potential health issues and to work closely with their veterinarian to ensure their Bull Terrier stays healthy throughout its life.

Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help prevent many health issues, and owners should also make sure their Bull Terrier receives regular check-ups and vaccinations from a veterinarian. Responsible breeding practices can also help reduce the incidence of genetic health problems in the breed.


Care

  1. Grooming: English Bull Terriers have a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. However, they do shed, so regular brushing will help keep shedding under control. They also need their nails trimmed regularly to prevent them from becoming too long.

  2. Exercise: English Bull Terriers need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They enjoy a good walk or run, but also love to play and explore. It's important to keep them active to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive.

  3. Socialiaation: English Bull Terriers can be prone to aggression towards other dogs, so socialization is important from a young age. They also do well with children when they are properly socialized and trained.

  4. Health: English Bull Terriers are prone to certain health issues such as heart disease, kidney disease, and skin allergies. Regular vet check-ups are important to catch any potential issues early.

  5. Training: English Bull Terriers are intelligent dogs, but can be stubborn at times. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and consistency. It's important to start training early to prevent bad habits from forming.

  6. Diet: English Bull Terriers can be prone to obesity, so it's important to monitor their diet and provide them with plenty of exercise. A high-quality, balanced diet is essential for their overall health and well-being.

English Bull Terrier Exercise Needs

English Bull Terriers have moderate exercise requirements and need daily physical activity to keep them healthy and happy. They are muscular and energetic dogs that require regular exercise to burn off excess energy and prevent boredom. A lack of exercise can lead to destructive behaviors such as chewing and digging.

A brisk walk or jog for 30-45 minutes a day is sufficient exercise for an adult English Bull Terrier. They also enjoy interactive play sessions with their owners, such as fetch or tug-of-war. It is important to note that English Bull Terriers are prone to overheating, so it is best to exercise them during cooler parts of the day and provide plenty of water.

English Bull Terriers can adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. However, they do require a securely fenced yard to play in, as they can be escape artists and like to dig. It is important to supervise them while outside to prevent any potential accidents or altercations with other animals.

Feeding

The English Bull Terrier is a medium-sized breed that requires a balanced and nutritious diet to maintain their health and energy levels. It is important to choose a high-quality dog food that meets their specific nutritional needs.

When selecting a dog food for your English Bull Terrier, it is important to take their age, activity level, and overall health into consideration. Puppies require a diet that is higher in protein and fat to support their growth and development, while adult dogs may benefit from a diet that is lower in fat to maintain a healthy weight.

It is also important to pay attention to the ingredients in your dog's food. English Bull Terriers may have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients, so it is important to choose a food that is free from common allergens such as grains or chicken.

Feeding your English Bull Terrier too much or too little can lead to health problems such as obesity or malnutrition. It is important to monitor their weight and adjust their food intake accordingly. Additionally, it is recommended to feed your English Bull Terrier two meals per day rather than free-feeding to help prevent overeating.

As with any breed, it is important to provide your English Bull Terrier with access to fresh water at all times. Water is essential for maintaining their overall health and wellbeing.

English Bull Terrier Price

English Bull Terriers can vary in price depending on factors such as pedigree, location, and breeder reputation. On average, an English Bull Terrier can cost anywhere from £800 to £3,000 or more. However, it's important to note that the cost of owning an English Bull Terrier goes beyond the initial purchase price. They have specific dietary and medical needs that can add to the overall cost of ownership. Additionally, it's important to only purchase from reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, which can also impact the cost.

Children and other pets

The English Bull Terrier loves people and as long as they are socialised correctly from a young age, they can get on very well with people of all ages. Although this dog breed is good with all children, they are better suited to a family with older children as they can be over-excitable. 

The English Bull Terrier can be nervous and sometimes aggressive around other dogs if they've not been socialised well from a young age. It is best to introduce a new pet to the home from a young age so they can both grow together and socialise better together.

English Bull Terrier Buying Advice

English Bull Terriers can be good with children and other pets if they are socialised properly from a young age. However, they have a strong prey drive and may not be suitable for households with smaller pets such as cats or rabbits. It is important to supervise any interactions between the Bull Terrier and children or other animals to ensure everyone's safety. Additionally, it's crucial to teach children how to interact with dogs properly and always supervise their interactions.