The modern Bull Terrier is a gentle natured dog that is a popular choice of pet for many families. Originally, the Bull Terrier was bred for fighting. Over the years the aggressive trait was bred out of them, and the Bull Terriers of today are very loving animals who enjoy being a part of family life.
While the exact origins of the Bull Terrier are unclear, the breed is thought to have come into existence as a result of cross breeding the Bulldog and the Dalmatian with other English Terrier breeds. They were developed as fighting dogs, mainly for entertainment, as many dogs were in England at the time. The practice of dog fighting was made illegal, so the small Bull Terrier was created so that when police arrived at dog fights it could be quickly hidden.
Appearance
This small to medium sized dog has a stock and muscular appearance. Height is between 16 and 22 inches, and weight is between 15 and 30 kilograms. The Bull Terrier has an oval shaped head. It has a very strong jaw and powerful bite, a throwback to its fighting days. Many note the appearance of the Bull Terrier to be quite intimidating, but in reality they are a gentle breed. They have eyes which can appear squinted, which are most often dark in colour. Colour variations of the coat include both solid white, or colours such as red, brindle or fawn.
Temperament
A Bull Terrier is well suited to life as a family pet, and will become very attached to their master and family.
In their youth, Bull Terriers are very active and playful dogs. Once they reach the age of around 5 or 6, they tend to calm down slightly. They are not idle dogs, and will always be doing something. When left alone they tend to be destructive.
Sometimes in play they can become over excited and bite or nip. While they mean no harm in doing this, it is important to discourage this habit from when they dog is a puppy. As they grow older it can become dangerous.
Working and Tasks
The main task of the early Bull Terrier was as fighting dog. Two dogs would fight to the death, with spectators placing bets on the results. Another popular sport was to place a dog in a pit of rats and watch them fight them off. These cruel practices were made illegal many years ago.
These days, the kind nature of the Bull Terrier have seen it as a popular choice of family dog. The Bull Terrier is well known in America for its role in Beer commercials.
Health
Having a short coat, the Bull Terrier requires little grooming. In summer, they can become hot quite quickly. If you live in a warm climate you will need to monitor them on hot days. Bull Terriers also need special attention paid to their ears and eyes, which can become infected. Some dogs have had dental problems later in life, so access to chew toys is essential.