The Bull Terrier has a long breeding history, dating back to 1850 when Bull Dogs and a variety of Terriers were bred with The English White Terrier. In 1860 the all-white terrier became popular as a pet and companion and the popularity spread to America, establishing the Bull Terrier Club of America.
In the early 1900's it was crossed with the Staffordshire Terrier and the colored Bull Terrier was born. Today, there are two separate classes, the white and the colored. It has been a member of the American Kennel Club since 1885 and the miniature version of the breed has been a member since 1991.
There is no mistaking this unique breed. His most outstanding feature is his head, being shaped like an egg and flat on top, sloping down the muzzle with no break for the nose. His eyes are that of a triangle, deep set, dark, close and never blue in color. The ears are small, close together, thin, set close and held erect. His skin must be tight, covering a strong and study body without displaying any wrinkles.
Movement should be smooth with free and easy strides, at the same time expressing power and agility. His coat is short, coarse to touch and should glisten. Males should stand 22 to 24 inches and weight 65 to 80 pounds, while females are slightly smaller.
Unfortunately this adorable canine is getting a lot of negative publicity these days. The Bull Terrier has a sweet disposition, is very affectionate, polite, loving, active and a little humorous at times. Training must start at an early age, with an extremely firm, but gentle hand. With constant training and socialization he will not show any aggression to other dogs.
The Bull Terrier possesses a stubborn streak and can be a challenge to train, so constant companionship is the key. Normally a quiet dog, he makes an excellent watch dog, for when he does bark you need to take notice. Without proper exercise, weight can become a big problem, so two long walks a day should keep him from putting on pounds, but also keep him from becoming bored.
A good family dog, if trained properly and consistently, he can also become rough not knowing his own strength where small children are concerned.
Being a loyal member of the family, he can easily become involved in family disputes, trying to put his two cents right into the middle.
The Bull Terrier is a very sweet, lovable family companion, but the most important thing is to obtain your puppy from a reputable breeder. It is important that you know that it has been bred with temperament in mind. If a little Spud MacKenzie is in your future, do your homework and he will give you his love for a lifetime.