Top Dog Breeds: The Bull Terrier

Learn all about what makes the Bull Terrier one of the most popular dog breeds.

The Bull Terrier is a strongly built, muscular, well-balanced terrier, known as "the gladiator" of the canine race. A dog breed of many talents, the Bull Terrier is agile, obedient and great at performing tricks. The Bull Terrier is a well-bred and well-socialized dog with an even temperament, making it very good with people. Loyal and obedient, the Bull Terrier thrives on affection and makes a fine family pet and watchdog.

Bull Terrier Breed Story

The Bull Terrier is of British origin, and was purposely developed in the nineteenth century for pit fighting. In 1835 Bull baiting was outlawed in England, and the ""sport"" of dog fighting became popular. A smaller, agile dog was needed. The Bull Dog and the Black and Tan Terrier (the now extinct English Terrier) were crossbred. The resulting dog combined the alertness, agility and speed of the Terrier, with the tenacity, courage and high pain threshold of the Bull Dog. It was called the Bull and Terrier Dog. It gained the reputation of the ""canine gladiator"" as it would fight to the death to please its master. This dog was larger than the Bull Terrier we know today, and its head much more closely resembled that of the Bull Dog.
READ MORE > [links to the breed's ""Breed Story"" section in Breedopedia in appropriate country]

Bull Terrier Temperament

The Bull Terrier is keen, intelligent and determined. Fun loving and active, this breed is a born entertainer with his ability to perform tricks. Loyal, polite and obedient, the Bull Terrier is devoted to its owners and thrives on affection, making a fine family pet and delightful companion.
LEARN MORE > [links to breed's Temperament section in Breedopedia in appropriate country]

For Official Standards:

Official Standards

Dog Photos

Bull Terrier Standards

• Country of origin: Great Britain
• Height approximately (at withers/shoulder): 38-56cm / 15-22in (standards may vary)
• Weight approximately: 15.5-36kg / 35-80lbs (standards may vary)
• Coat: Short coat
• Color: Solid color: White. Or in coloreds, brindle is preferred, but black, red, fawn and tricolor are acceptable.  
• Markings: Undesirable
• Lifespan: Average, 10-12 years

Good to Know - Bull Terrier

+ Protector of the family
+ Very little grooming is needed
+ An excellent jogging companion
- Fairly active indoors
- Not a dog recommended for novice owners
- Requires sufficient daily physical activity and mental stimulation