History

The Bull Terrier originated in 19thcentury England where it was used for dog fighting which was a popular sport at the time.

The English White Terrier was cross bred with the Bulldog to produce this courageous muscular dog.

The Bull Terrier has also been utilized as a watchdog, guard dog, and herder.

Characteristics

  • Athletic
  • Affectionate
  • Potentially dangerous

Bull Terrier Temperament & Size

The Bull Terrier, or English Bull Terrier, sports a dense, short coat which can be white, fawn, red, brindle, black or a mixture. Its most distinctive feature is its flat head.

They can be found in Standard, or Miniature Bull Terrier, varieties.

Despite its fighting background, they are affectionate, fun- loving dogs suitable for families but exercise care with young children.

Daily exercise, firm training and early socialization is paramount to prevent any behavioural issues such as destructive behaviour and aggression. This is imperative as if placed in the wrong hands these dogs are potentially dangerous.

Bull Terrier Life Span & Health Problems

Average lifespan is 10 -12 years.

Common Illnesses include;

  • Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) – Degeneration of the heart’s Mitral Valve leading to eventual congestive heart failure.
  • Cerebellar Abiotrophy – Affected dogs are normal at birth but develop neurological signs that progress to complete immobilization.
  • Cerebellar Hypoplasia – Incomplete development of the cerebellum resulting in tremors and un-coordinated motion present from birth.
  • Congenital Deafness – Deafness present at birth.
  • Entropion – Excess eyelid tissue causing the eyelashes to turn inward and rub against the surface of the eye resulting in corneal ulceration.
  • Ectropion –The lower eyelids turn outwards.
  • Familial Kidney Disease – An inherited cause of early onset kidney failure in Bull Terriers.
  • Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) – Painful condition resulting from inadequate tear production causing irritated painful eyes and potentially blindness.
  • Laryngeal Paralysis – Disorder affecting the nerve supply to the larynx resulting in failure to fully open the airway during breathing. It causes coughing, gagging and reduced exercise tolerance.
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) – Progressive degeneration of the retina eventually causing blindness.

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