The extraordinary Bull Terrier casually carries the tarnish of the horrid reputation earned by others. Nevertheless, this happy go lucky friend of the world carries on safe in the haven created by those fanciers who are aware of the treasure in their midst. Very few breeds are born with a greater sense of manners and fair play, not to mention sense of humor! The Bull Terrier could easily be the comedien of the century if only they could manage the microphone because they certainly don't suffer from stage fright. Be cautious of the Bull Terrier that has discovered applause, they will be seeking that reinforcement at every turn. Generally speaking, the Bull Terrier is a wonderful option for those who are dedicated to the care and well-being of a close companion, happiest with their people about, the breed would not excel in a home of two careers but would still prove adaptable if the home were supportive and highly interactive the rest of the time.
Colors: white OR colored (any color other than predominantly white)
Coat type: short, smooth
Recognized Registries: NCA, AKC, UKC, FCI and others
Overall Appearance: A powerhouse physically, many will recognize the Bull Terrier as a colorful character utilized in many media events from mascots and stars of commercials and movies. Remarkably muscular the Bull Terrier has a combination of clean lines with no excess in the way of coat or enhancement (with prick ears and triangular eyes) but impressive mass of muscle. By rights, there is no reason for excessive mass (either in height, size or weight) to be part of the Bull Terrier. Ideally and historically the breed is true to its roots of a medium sized dog.
Personaility - Behavior - Training
Energy Level: moderate
General Nature:
mannerly, frolicsome, happy and pleasant
with Children: generally very good if introduced properly
with other pets: questionable with smaller animals due to their Terrier ancestry
with dogs: generally good if introduced properly
Socialization requirements: moderate, the dog simply needs a level of confidence when dealing with new circumstances
Ideal home characteristics: One that respects the athletic and frolicsome nature and has time and energy to devote to the development of this character.
Temperament Notes: Mild intensity, intelligent, genial, friendly, happy and gregarious
Training requirement: socialization and basic manners
Trainer notes: This bright and happy entertainer is very likely to forget everything he/she ever knew once they hear the sound of applause! Even so, their happy and mildly independent nature's make them a fun and interesting training partner as they concoct new and more interesting options to commands and training exercises. Probably not the breed for the highly serious and ambitious trainer but a wonderful option for the person that enjoys a dog who's general nature they can trust to stay within basic foundations of training while still offering that individual twist and quirk to everything they do.
Background Information
Year range of first recognition: 1835
Country of Origin: England
Original Function: honorable and gentlemanly fighter, considered the White Cavalier; selected for those that were mannerly much like a true athlete
History: Probably the result of a cross of Bulldogs and the now extinct English Terrier.
Adoption Information
Deviations from Standard: too large, head incorrect, poor structure
Health Notes: hip dysplasia, OCD, eye problems, cardiovascular problems, deafness, endocrine, immune issues, laryngeal paralysis, vWD
Health Testing: thyroid panel, OFA, CERF, vWD,BAER
