Bull Terrier Breed Guide
Also known as: English Bull Terrier, Bully
Egg-shaped heads house mischievous personalities, Bull Terriers are strong-willed characters who need owners who appreciate their unique quirks.

Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
22-40 kg
Lifespan
10-14 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Medium
Weight
22-40 kg
Lifespan
10-14 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Only with older kids
Shedding
Moderate
About Bull Terriers
The Bull Terrier originated in England during the 19th century, developed by crossing bulldogs with various terriers to create a dog suitable for the brutal sport of dog fighting. When these activities were banned, breeders focused on developing their companionable qualities.
Bull Terriers are medium-sized dogs with distinctive egg-shaped heads and small, triangular eyes. Their short, harsh coats come in white or coloured varieties (brindle, black, red, fawn, and tricolour).
These dogs are playful, mischievous, and make excellent family pets for those who appreciate their unique character. They're known for their clownish personalities and their devotion to their families. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviour. While generally healthy, potential concerns include heart problems, kidney disease, and deafness in white varieties. Early socialisation and consistent training are essential for these strong-willed, energetic dogs.
Complete Care Guide for Bull Terriers
Expert advice on keeping your Bull Terrier healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Establishing proper nutrition forms the foundation of a Bull Terrier's overall health and wellbeing. These muscular, energetic dogs require a carefully balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins to maintain their distinctive physique and support their active lifestyle. Precise portion control proves essential, as Bull Terriers can quickly gain excess weight when overfed or underexercised.
Fresh, clean water should always be readily available to support proper digestion and nutrient absorption. When selecting meals, focus on premium dog foods specifically formulated with appropriate protein-to-fat ratios for medium to large breeds. Careful measurement of portions helps prevent overfeeding, while maintaining consistent meal times establishes healthy eating patterns.
While Bull Terriers may beg convincingly for table scraps, it's crucial to avoid feeding human foods or fatty treats that could lead to weight gain or digestive issues. Instead, incorporate healthy, dog-appropriate treats into their daily caloric allowance, using them sparingly as training rewards or occasional supplements to their regular meals.
Working closely with a veterinarian to establish proper portions based on your Bull Terrier's age, size, and activity level ensures optimal nutrition while preventing obesity-related health concerns. Regular weigh-ins and body condition assessments help maintain an ideal weight through dietary adjustments when needed.
How healthy is your Bull Terrier?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Bull Terriers from our community of pet parents
Bull Terriers are known for their playful and affectionate nature. They are extremely friendly and form strong bonds with their families. Despite their robust appearance, they are often described as 'clowns' due to their comical and entertaining personality. However, Bull Terriers can be stubborn at times and require consistent, positive reinforcement training methods.
Bull Terrier Blog Posts & Guides
Expert advice and tips specifically for Bull Terrier owners
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