Bull Terrier Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Bull Terrier has one of the most recognizable heads in dogdom: long, smooth and egg-shaped, with small triangular eyes that give a mischievous expression. Behind the unusual looks is a clownish, devoted companion with a stubborn streak.

Origins and appearance

The breed was developed in nineteenth-century England by crossing Bulldogs and old English terriers, and later introducing Dalmatian and Spanish Pointer blood. The aim was a dog with courage and a gentlemanly manner. Bull Terriers are muscular and compact, with a downfaced, egg-shaped head, erect ears and a short, flat coat that is white or colored, including brindle, red, fawn and black. A miniature version also exists.

Temperament

Bull Terriers are affectionate, playful and determined. They love their people and crave attention, often to the point of leaning and following. They are clownish and energetic, and can be tough and persistent. Many are selective with other dogs, so early socialization and management are important. They can be destructive if bored.

Exercise

They need an hour or more of daily activity, including walks, play and training. They enjoy tug and fetch, and benefit from secure fences and sturdy toys. Mental stimulation prevents boredom. Use a strong harness and leash, and avoid unsupervised play with other dogs.

Training

Bull Terriers are intelligent but stubborn. Training must be consistent, positive and short, with rewards. Harsh methods tend to produce resistance. Teach impulse control and a reliable recall, though off-leash reliability may be limited. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The short coat sheds moderately and needs a weekly brush. See short coat dog grooming guide. White dogs are prone to sunburn and skin problems, so use shade and ask your vet about sun protection. Trim nails, check ears and brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics worth discussing include:

• Congenital deafness, especially in white dogs, with hearing tests available
• Kidney disease, including hereditary nephritis. See kidney disease in dogs
• Skin allergies and sunburn. See dog skin allergies
• Heart disease, including mitral valve disease and aortic stenosis
• Compulsive tail chasing
• Lethal acrodermatitis, a rare inherited disease

Ask breeders about hearing, heart and kidney screening.

Living with a Bull Terrier

They suit committed owners with secure yards. They are not ideal for homes with small pets. They need company and do not do well in kennels.

Behavior and daily management

A Bull Terrier needs structure. Give a morning workout, chew time and a training game, then a rest. Teach settle and trade games, rotate durable toys and avoid leaving the dog alone for long stretches. Introduce other dogs carefully.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and mouthy. Begin socialization early, teach bite inhibition and provide chew toys. Keep training short and fun. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for durable toys, screening tests, vet care and training classes. See dog vet cost guide.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include skipping socialization, underexercising, leaving the dog alone too much and using weak equipment.

Questions to ask a breeder or rescue

Ask about hearing, heart and kidney tests, tail-chasing history and the parents' temperaments.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Bull Terrier suits experienced owners who want a funny, devoted and strong dog. It may not suit first-time owners or homes with small pets. For a smaller version, see the Miniature Bull Terrier.

The takeaway

Bull Terriers are goofy, tenacious and loyal, and they need socialization, exercise and firm, fair training.