BULL TERRIER

Breed Group: Bulldog

For full breed standards, visit UK Kennel Club or American Kennel Club

Average height: 53 - 56 cms (21 - 22 in)

Average Weight: 23 - 32 kgs (50 - 70 lbs)

Coat Length: Short, dense, and smooth

Life Span: 12 - 13 years

Colours: Brindle, white, red, fawn, black and tri-color

HISTORY

The Bull Terrier, with its unmistakable egg-shaped head and muscular frame, has a storied history dating back to early 19th-century England. Originally bred as a cross between Bulldogs and now-extinct white English Terriers, this breed was designed with a unique purpose: combining the power of the Bulldog with the agility and tenacity of the terrier. In the early days, Bull Terriers were known as "bull-and-terriers," serving various roles from bull-baiting to vermin control, but over time, they transitioned from fighting dogs to beloved companions.

L.E.G.S.

Using the L.E.G.S.® model, our breed descriptions offer insights into typical behavior based on Genetics, Learning, Environment, and Self.

Knowing the sort of 'job' a breed was created for can offer valuable insights into the type of life dogs of that breed would most enjoy. But bear in mind, they are all individuals, treat the following as an indication of breed tendencies – not a prediction.

Shedding

minimal <> considerable

Grooming

minimal <> likely to need professional grooming

Barking

relatively quiet <> very vocal

Predatory behaviour around other pets/livestock

low<>high

Response to strangers

happy to greet everyone <> very wary

Affectionate with family

not at all<>very cuddly

Playful

serious<>very playful

Focus on handler (bond)

independent thinker<>very biddable

Excitable/Impulsive

very calm<>easily aroused

Motivated

laid back<>obsessive

Easy to care for

suitable for inexperienced<>challenging

Exercise needs

minimal<>hours daily

Off-lead exercise needs

happy on lead<>needs plenty of freedom

Enrichment needs

basic<>needs challenges

WHY YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH YOUR BULL TERRIER

They have a playful personality - known for their clown-like antics, often bringing laughter to the household with their quirky behavior
They form a deep, lasting bond with their family
Terriers are affectionate and gentle with family members, including children (always supervised)
For active households, a Bull Terrier is an ideal partner, always ready for an adventure or a spirited play session.

WHY THEY MAY BE HARD TO LIVE WITH

High energy! They need a lot of exercise to stay happy and often become frustrated without enough physical activity
They can be quite independent and may sometimes have their own ideas about what to do despite a cue you taught them
They can play rough - so supervised interactions with small children are essential
Bull Terriers crave companionship and can become destructive if left alone for too long
They have a high prey drive and may have a tendency to chase smaller animals and other pets

YOUR BULL TERRIER

PUPPY HIGHLIGHTS

These puppies are highly social and thrive when they’re part of family activities.

Their curiosity, enthusiasm and antics are endless. They're mischievous, testing boundaries as they explore their surroundings.

YOU MAY NEED PROFESSIONAL HELP WITH:

Guidance to teach them self-control, especially when they get excited
Introductions to other pets
Navigating things you want to teach them and their independent nature
Handling overexcitement and managing arousal levels

YOUR RELATIONSHIP SURVIVAL KEY

Embrace their independent spirit while providing consistent guidance. Clear, consistent, and kind direction will build your social bond, paired with positive reinforcement. By engaging in regular activities that tap into their natural playfulness and curiosity, you’ll foster a deep, trusting relationship with your Bull Terrier, balancing their independent streak with mutual respect.

UPBRINGING

Raising a Bull Terrier requires a blend of patience, consistency, and plenty of mental and physical engagement. Gently and slowly introduce your puppy to a variety of people, pets, and environments from an early age. Be ready to embrace their independent nature.

LIFESTYLE

An active family or individual who enjoys a mix of outdoor activities and structured indoor play. They thrive in homes where they aren’t left alone for long stretches, as they bond closely with their people and can experience loneliness.

Bull Terriers are not overly demanding in terms of grooming but require regular exercise, mental enrichment, and a strong, confident guardian.

INTERESTS & HOBBIES

Bull Terriers are active and playful, making them well-suited to games that allow them to run, chase, and problem-solve. They enjoy activities like agility, games-based training, and even nose work, which allow them to engage their minds and bodies simultaneously. Fetch, tug-of-war, and puzzle toys are also favorites for Bull Terriers, as these games tap into their playful side while helping to manage their energy.

EDUCATION

Life skills training should focus on building impulse control and teaching reliable recall. Short, varied training sessions mixed with play. Interactive games that combine teaching cues with fun activities work well, as Bull Terriers love a bit of “work” when it feels like play. Puzzle toys and scent games are also excellent ways to channel their natural curiosity and intelligence.