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Bull Terrier: the egg-headed dog with triangular eyes, strong but gentle
The Bull Terrier is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable dogs in the world, thanks to the oval shape of its head and triangular eyes that give it a deep, penetrating gaze.
However, despite his stern appearance and “tough guy” reputation, he is an affectionate and outgoing dog.
How the Bull Terrier was born
The history of the Bull Terrier begins in the early 1800s, when it was created by crossing the Old English Bulldog and the Old English Terrier.
The goal was to obtain a more agile and faster dog, initially used for bull fighting and rat hunting.
The first all-white specimens appeared in the second half of the 1800s, when breeder James Hinks crossed the Old English Bulldog with an English White Terrier.
Hinks’ sons continued the selection by including the Borzoi and Collie to obtain a dog without the stop i.e., the part from the nose to the eyes.
What they got was the dog that we all know today.
Official recognition of the breed occurred in 1933; the “miniature” version was recognized in 1939.
Bull terrier: medium size and miniature
Compact, muscular dogs are generally classified into two categories: the standard and the “miniature.”
The standard weighs between 25 and 36 kg, while the miniature is much smaller, weighing between 11 and 16 kg.
The coat is short and can be various colors, including white, black, tiger and fawn.
They have a unique mouth: their jaw is able to close tightly.
What character Bull Terriers have
Despite their seemingly indecipherable appearance and expression, they are outgoing and affectionate dogs, very sociable and curious.
They love socializing, being in the company of people and also have a strong protective instinct.
A Bull Terrier who is bored or misunderstood, depressed or nervous may engage in destructive behavior to vent his frustration.
That is why it is important to keep him engaged with physical and mental activities that reward him.
What Bull Terriers Like to Do
The Bull Terrier is a true gladiator, an ancient fighter: the thing he needs to do most is undoubtedly physical activity to give vent to his energy.
He needs to run and jump, darting his mighty muscles.
Be careful, however, to let him loose: as he is an excitable dog who loves to chase anything that is in motion, it is always a good idea to use a lunger.
One myth to dispel is that Bull Terriers are not suitable for families with children
This prejudice is based on stereotypes.
In fact, these dogs can make excellent companions for younger children.
They are notoriously affectionate, playful and protective.
Of course, as with all breeds, it is important to supervise interactions between dogs and children and to teach young children how to behave properly with animals.
The diseases of the Bull Terrier, one of the most genetically manipulated dogs
The result of truly wild selection, the Bull Terrier can suffer from some genetic disorders, even serious ones.
One of the most common is undoubtedly the congenital deafness: typical of white dogs, it can also affect colored Bull Terriers and is a disabling condition that occurs from birth.
It can be unilateral or bilateral (from one or both ears) and brings difficulties in the puppy’s communicative development that will need to be specifically managed.
It can also suffer from skin diseases, particularly those of white color, which can lead to dermatitis, pyoderma, and localized hair loss.
Some of the most common health problems also include hip dysplasia and heart disease.
Summary of Bull Terrier characteristics: a strong but gentle dog
Many people think that Bull Terriers are solitary dogs, unable to bond with their humans.
In contrast, these dogs are often described as “shadow-dogs” because they like to be close to their humans.
This dog has a great need for companionship and affection and is very delicate so vet checkups should be periodic and regular.
Before you make the decision to welcome one into your family, you should be aware of its mental and physical needs and requirements.
Most importantly, that you are able to satisfy them.
To have your Bull Terrier checked and for periodic check-ups, contact the veterinary doctors on our staff who are always available to you.
We would also like to remind you that Clinica La Veterinaria is always open h24 every day including holidays and with First Aid service from 8 pm to 8 am.
