Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is the result of a breeding between the Bulldog, Spanish Pointer, and the Old English Terrier. The idea was to create a fighter even more agile than the very popular Bulldog. This did not come to fruition as the new breed did not prove to be as good a warrior has his parental breeds.

The first white Bull Terrier appeared in the mid-1850s, quickly becoming quite the fashionable pet. Historically, this dog has been used as a guard dog, ratter, and herder.

While often seen as vicious, the Bull Terrier is fun-loving, polite and obedient. In order to make an exemplary pet, this dog needs to be efficiently trained with a firm hand, and socialized early. Although they get along quite well with children, and are considered excellent companions, they are not recommended for most families. They can not tolerate teasing and should never be encouraged to be jealous or possessive; some have been known to become involved in family disputes.

All make excellent watchdogs, only barking only when they perceive trouble. Most are extremely aggressive with other dogs and are not recommended for a family with other pets. It is important to remember that this breed should never be lead off of their leash around other dogs as they all have the tendency to pick fights.

The Bull Terriers does okay living in an apartment, as long as exercise space is provide outside. They easily gain weight if they are not exercised properly. They should never be left along for long periods of time. Most do not like cooler climates.

This is a thick, muscular dog that is well-proportioned. They generally stand between 20 and 24 inches and weigh between 45 and 80 pounds. There is a Miniature Bull Terrier that has been bred with a similar temperament, but in a smaller, perhaps more manageable size. Being an average shedder, their short coat needs very little grooming; occasional brushing will suffice. Some of these terriers are colored, while others are white.

This dog suffers from such health problems as allergies, zinc deficiency, and kneecap issues. Many white dogs of this breed are prone to deafness and should be checked as pups. The male may require early neutering, as many have an abundance of testosterone, often resulting in aggressive, territorial behavior. This dog generally lives between 10 and 12 years, and has litters of between 1 and 9 pups.