Bull Terrier
Description
The Bull Terrier is also known as an English Bull Terrier. The Bull Terrier when properly trained tends to be friendly and have a good temperament. Known for its sense of humor, the Bull Terrier is an outgoing dog with a dominant nature that needs firm handling by his owner. A tenacious fighter, the Bull Terrier is most often dog-aggressive and has a high prey drive towards small animals such as cats.
Size of Male: Height: 21-22 inches Weight: 55-65 pounds
Size of Female: Height: 21-22 inches Weight: 45-55 pounds
Temperament
Though Bull Terrier was once a fierce gladiator, he is much gentler now. A Bull Terrier might have a preventive effect and it might defend its owner in a truly critical situation, but it isn’t breed to be a guard dog. Bull Terrier is courageous, scrappy, fun-loving, active, clownish and fearless dog. The Bull Terrier is a loyal, polite, and obedient dog that become very attached to their owners. The Bull Terrier thrives on affection and makes a fine family pet. Bull Terriers like to be occupied and fit in well with active families where they receive a great deal of companionship and supervision. They do not do well in situations where they are left alone for 8 hours a day. This breed can be a wonderful pet if very thoroughly socialized and trained, but are not recommended for most households. Bull Terriers are fond of both grown-ups and children, but may be too energetic for small children. They cannot tolerate teasing and children should be taught to respect the dog. They can be very protective and willful. Do not encourage this breed to be possessive or jealous as it can really shape its characteristics. Bull Terriers may try to join into family rough housing or quarrel. They need very firm training and lots of exercise. Bull Terriers must be given a lot of companionship, or they may become destructive. Be sure to socialize them well as they can be extremely aggressive with other dogs. Unaltered males usually do not get along with other male dogs. Males and females can live together happily and two females can also be a good combination with care and supervision. They also make excellent watch dogs. However, this breed should not be kept with other pets and can be somewhat difficult to train.
Living Conditions
Bull Terriers will do ok in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised. Bull Terriers are fairly active indoors and a small yard will do. Bull Terriers also prefer warm climates, so do make sure you can provide a warm environment for the Terrier, places with temperate weather and rather warm temperature should be fine.
Upkeep
The Bull Terrier needs to be entertained, either with a good exercise session or mental stimulation every day – preferably both. The Bull Terrier is an active breed that enjoys a good run, but it is best to run only in a safe area. Bull Terrier should not stay outdoors except in temperate weather, but it should live primarily as a house dog with access to a yard. Coat care is minimal. Coat hair is removal of dead hair with a brush. Do take note that Bull Terriers molt twice a year.
Health
Major concerns: deafness, kidney problems
Minor concerns: heart problems, patellar luxation
Life expectancy: 11 – 14 years