bull terrier

The Bull Terrier is a hereditary English aristocrat in a snow-white "suit" with a needle. His menacing appearance is nothing but a mask, under which he hides a social figure.

At the dog57 dog breed registry, we'll show you what an English Bull Terrier looks like, talking about his origins, personality, and physical characteristics as well as his training and the most common illnesses he usually suffers from. You'll find all about Bull Terrier below. Read on. 

a summary

Breed name: Dog urine

Country of Origin: United Kingdom

Breed Origin Time: 19th Century

Weight: 23-32 kg

Height (height at arms): 53-56 cm

Age: 11-14 years old

highlights

Despite their fearsome appearance, Bull Terriers are very friendly and loyal if raised properly.

These dogs are excessively active and therefore need regular physical exertion, as they can sprinkle their energy.

Bull Terrier is not the best choice for protection, because it rarely shows aggression even towards strangers.

Representatives of the breed do not tolerate loneliness, so they do not get along with people who are often absent from home.

They make great nannies for children, but it is recommended not to leave pets' eyes during violent games with your child.

It is not to keep a bull terrier with other pets: this breed is very dominant and will not recommended competition.

The dog needs early socialization and upbringing, otherwise, he will grow up uncontrollably and feel bitter.

These English aristocrats are suitable only for experienced dog breeders who will take the position of leader and will not hand him over to a four-legged friend. 

The Bull Terrier is a breed that can be described in two words: "explosive mixture". With improper upbringing, the good disposition of the animal will give way to ancient fighting instincts, which, along with developed intellect, will cause many problems. Deciding in favor of a bull terrier, it is worth consciously assessing your strength and hardness of character - the necessary conditions for the competent socialization of a dog. However, taking the place of the alpha in the "pack", you will become the happy owner of a loyal pet who willfully give you love and attention. This athlete will gladly join the family morning jog or an active game of football. 

History of the dog pee breed

 

The history of bulldogs is rooted in the Middle Ages and the "bloody lottery" - the merciless fights of animals with each other. The thirst for easy profit limited the poor and representatives of the nobility: bets on the winner reached dizzying levels. This tough entertainment gained particular popularity in England, where until the 19th century it was considered the national sport.

The hunting of bulls by dogs was universally recognized. The first bloodthirsty show held in Stamford dates back to 1209. At the same time, the organizers realized: to fight with a bull, low-growing breeds are best suited, which can imperceptibly run around the animal and cling to its unprotected nose with fangs . The dogs did not untie their jaws even at the moment when the bull, stunned in pain, threw his head back. Animals showed no less assertiveness in battles with wild boars and bears.

The popularity of cruel entertainment has grown every year. Even the most crumbling English village can boast of having a fighting pit, where more than one bloodshed is spilled daily. The most furious, fast, and powerful dogs were released into the arena, otherwise, the show would not have been amazing and bright. Many were willing to pay a tidy sum for a particularly bitter sample of medium size: its victory would more than offset the costs and allow the owner to enrich himself. Therefore, the frequent "guests" of fights were the ancestors of the American bulldog, who were famous for their courage and strength, atypical for dogs. 

 

It is not known what fate awaited the participants in the bloody show, had it not been for the law of 1835, which prohibited the opening of fighting pits and the exploitation of animals in this perverted way. However, human greed found a loophole here as well. Taking advantage of the fact that the law prohibits only fights between large animals, the organizers decided to switch to hunting exclusively dogs. First, these representations required less effort, money, and time. Secondly, the presence of fighting breeds was easier to hide from representatives of the law than livestock maintenance.

A wave of breeders' interest in compact animals has once again caught on. Bulldogs, for their foolishness, could not provide the spectators with an amazing fight, and the organizers of the entertainment program did not want to lose money. At this time, work began on the development of a new breed that would retain its former ferocity, but decreased slightly in size, becoming more resourceful and mobile.

To do this, lovers and breeders crossed the terrier with the Old English bulldog. The first was valued for vigilance and agility, and the second for endurance, perseverance, and strength. As a result of the selection, a new breed appeared - the bull and the dog - which were ideal for participating in underground battles. These dogs were called gladiators for their willingness to fight to the bitter end to get the owner's approval (and of course his winnings on the improvised lottery). 

The fame of the breeder of the first bull belongs to James Hinks - an English breeder, who since 1850 began working on improving the breed. The guy planned to improve the appearance of the bulls and dogs, making them more sophisticated. In 1862, at a dog show in Birmingham, Hinx presented the result of his fruitful selection, which had an Aristocratic appearance, but retained the fighting qualities of ugly ancestors.

James' pioneering series led him to the idea that the public's interest in bloody dog ​​fights is not eternal, and therefore, non-aesthetic fighting breeds are doomed to extinction. Only their noble outer appearance gave them a phantom hope for further existence. Hinks, in the company of other breeders, decided to continue breeding dogs. This time, the bull and terrier were crossed with several breeds at once: the Old English White Dog (now considered extinct), the bulldog, the gray hound, the Dalmatian, and even the Scottish collie.

And so there was an elegant and dynamic snow-white color, which still had the strong physique of the ancestors, but had more refined features. To avoid confusion with stocky bulls and dogs, James Hinks gave the new breed another name - Bull Terrier. These animals immediately won the love of many English dog breeders. Since then, it has been considered fashionable to keep these four-legged aristocrats, who were famous for their sophisticated intelligence and tremendous stamina.

It is worth noting that the breeders of bulls and dogs treated James with a grain of salt. In their opinion, the attractive appearance of animals could not provide excellent fighting qualities. Hinks offered the bet and sent one of his bulls - the name Puss - against the Bull and Terrier. The latter suffered a crushing defeat, and Hinks received a box of champagne and a cash reward. 

In 1864, two Bull Terriers—James' beloved pets—sprayed water at the next dog show. This played an important role in the further spread of the breed around the world. English colonists, soldiers, and emigrants rarely left England without a snow-white friend. In 1885, the Bull Terrier was recognized by the American Dog Organization AKC, and thirteen years later the first fan club for this extravagant breed appeared in the United States. In 1917, a bull terrier of the modern type was recognized. It was a male named Lord Gladiator.

The history of the breed did not end there. Bull Terrier breeders had to face a lot of new problems. So, in 1985, a bill was considered and signed that would prohibit dogs with ears tossed. This almost affected the popularity of the breed: now its representatives do not look very attractive. Fortunately, breeders have found a way to breed Bull Terriers with naturally erect ears.

No less dangerous for the breed is the refusal to recognize colored dogs - the result of crossing Bull Terriers and Am staff.

The triumph of spotted balls at a fair in England resonated: then many breeders grumbled against the judges' unanimous decision. According to the breeders, breeding bulldogs with points will negatively affect the line of animals of white color. However, it was this unspoken protest that almost destroyed the dynasty.

Since only individuals in their species who were not colored there were allowed to breed, the gene pool of the bull eventually became poor. In addition, many animals began to show the genetic defects of distant ancestors - Old English white dogs: deafness and the inability to give offspring. By 1950, the number of sick dogs had reached a critical level. This was the impetus for recognition of the colorful representatives of the breed. 

The emergence of the bulldog

Bull Terrier refers to medium breeds of dogs with a muscular and powerful physique. At the same time, they look more developed than males. So, their height at the withers is 53 and 56 cm, respectively. A slight deflection of the smaller (female) or larger (male) sides is allowed.

As for the weight of the animal, on average it reaches 23-32 kg.

head and skull

The Bull Terrier's head is low-set and has an egg-shaped shape. This is noticeable when examining the dog from the front. It has a homogeneous structure without recesses and protrusions, elongated and very strong. The sloping skull is rounded except for the space between the animal's ears.

snout

The powerful muzzle of the bulldog is lowered, its depth in a ratio of 1: 3 as the dog rises at the withers. The terminal is smoothed and the so-called Roman profile is created. The large nasal lobe is slightly inclined downward and pigmented black. Dry lips fit snugly against the jaws, which is why a dog does not appear scattered.

azan

Bull Terrier's ears are medium in size and a close fit about one another. At the same time, the "triangles" themselves are thin and right. The animal holds it vertically - especially if it is disturbed.

the eyes

Narrow eyes are set high and slanting, due to which their shape appears triangular. The pigmentation of the iris should be black, a dark brown shade is also allowed. Note that the distance from the eyes to the back of the head is much smaller than the nasal lobe. Eyelids are dry and pigmented black. 

jaws and teeth

The bulldog is the owner of the correct scissor-shaped bite. The standard provides a close snack or bites immediately after the animal is three years old. The lower jaw is more developed and stronger. Straight, strong teeth sit comfortably in the gums.

neck

The muscular neck of the dog is very long, expanding from the head to the withers. Curved in an arc, the compost line is clear. The skin does not form folds, which is why the neck looks dry.

corps

Representatives of this breed are very compact. The broad chest has rounded and flexible ribs. Strong curls smoothly into a short, straight back with defined muscles. The abdomen is tightened and forms an upward curve along with the chest line. The dog's croup is moderately cut at an angle of 30-35 degrees. The lower back is shortened, has a square cross-section.

Tail

The short tail of the bull terrier is planted in the rump hollow. It tapers from base to tip. The dog always holds it horizontally. 

front limbs

The length of an adult's limbs corresponds to the depth of the chest. It looks parallel and straight when viewed from the front. The flat and broad shoulder blades together with the strong shoulders form a 90-degree angle. The elbows are neatly turned back and fit snugly against the chest. The short metacarpals are located vertically and pass into rounded claws fused with curved fingers.

India's extremities

Like the forelimbs, the hind limbs are straight and parallel to each other. Hips are muscular and wide. The angle of the knees is clear. Strong drumsticks are well developed. The dry hock joints of the Bull Terrier have well-defined angles. The short and massive insteps end with small claws with tightly packed toes. 

Movement method

Representatives of the breed go easily and freely, every step of the dog is flexible and self-confident. The limbs move parallel to each other but turn to the midline when the animal is running. The front paws of a bull terrier take up a lot of space, while the hind legs move more freely.

fleece cover

The dog's straight and short coat has a healthy sheen. It is very hard to touch. It "softens" only in winter, when animals have a small undercoat.

color

The breed standard provides several options for the color of the Bull Terrier:

White.

redhead.

black.

red.

taupe.

Three colors.

Sandy or blue coat colors are highly undesirable.

Possible vices

The slightest deviation from the norm is considered a defect. The most common are:

high set and/or long-tail;

Incomplete pigmentation of the lips and nose lobe.

Easy sexy and shy.

Poorly developed muscles.

Pronounced cheekbones.

A convex line from the back.

direct bite.

Disadvantages of a Bull Terrier include:

sandy, fleshy or pinkish pigmentation of the nose;

The predominance of white color in colored dogs;

testicles or undescended;

Points on the white fleece.

height at the withers less than 35.5 cm;

Snack and underbite.

blue eye color

heterotrophic;

Deaf. 

bull terrier character

Representatives of the breed are distinguished by a very good disposition. However, in conditions of illiterate socialization and all kinds of encouragement, the Bull Terrier will necessarily show his instincts. In this case, you will become the owner of an edged weapon - incredibly smart and hardy with a strong grip and strong muscles.

Fortunately, studies conducted by the American organization ATTS indicate that only 10% of bulls are potentially dangerous to humans. The rest of the dogs no longer resemble their distant ancestors - the bloodthirsty gladiators in the fighting pits. Correctly bred bulldogs are the embodiment of friendliness and indomitable cheerfulness.

These dogs want to play and have fun for days on end. Take a fidget at home, get ready for regular and long walks. Otherwise, the pet will feel miserable and will find a way to have fun on its own. If you don't want to sacrifice slippers or sofa upholstery, take your Bull Terrier to the nearest park. Favorite games of the animal will light up the joint entertainment.

From this, it follows that representatives of the breed feel very comfortable in a private house, where they can stretch their claws at any time and at the same time not cause the indignation of others. Living in a bull terrier in an apartment is only permissible if you can provide your pet with a variety of physical exercises. Morning jogging, playing frisbee, cycling - in all cases, the animal will make the excellent company! 

Take a closer look at other dog breeds if you plan to spend a large part of the day at work. Taurus dogs do not tolerate loneliness. If you decide to leave your pet behind a closed door, get ready to go home and find it completely drenched. In addition, the neighbors will not be happy with the nervous howling, which will not stop for several hours. 

Despite their great instincts, Bull Terriers rarely make good watchdogs. Dogs do not have innate aggression towards humans, so they will wait for the bark of anxiety when a stranger approaches only in the most extreme case. Even for strangers, animals are very friendly. However, if the case takes an unexpected and dangerous turn, the snow-white Aristocrat will immediately forget his morals and rush to protect the owner from the offender.

Bull Terrier gets along well with the whole family, and for children, it is not at all better to find a nanny. The dog gladly takes an active part in all games and pranks, but do not take your eyes off the pet: he may not calculate his strength and accidentally push the child. Given the mass and powerful muscles of the Bull Terrier, even a slight push can have unpleasant consequences. In addition, do not forget that animals do not like when someone teases them, provokes them, or takes away toys. Teach your pet to be more tolerant and "share" - so you save yourself from unnecessary trouble.

Representatives of this breed are distinguished by a developed instinct of pursuit, so they can chase or chase a cat in sight. For the same reason, bulldogs do not always get along with other animals. Some dogs tolerate four-legged brothers but do not try their luck. From the maintenance of decorative birds and rodents, it is better to refuse at all.

The Bull Terrier is very stray, but will gladly accept your care and affection. Make friendly contact with your pet - and you will never find a friend more loyal than your dog! 

Education and Training

Since Bull Terriers are distinguished by an independent (even stubborn) disposition and a well-developed intelligence, the education and training of a pet will require a lot of strength and patience from you. In this case, steps should be taken from the first day the dog appears in the house. Timely competent socialization is a guarantee that you will get a controlled and friendly pet. Introduce your Bull Terrier to new places, people, things, smells, and sensations - and in the future, he won't react aggressively to a change of scenery.

Your task is to take the position of the leader in an impromptu package and stick to it every minute. The inquisitive mind of the dog will want to expand the boundaries of what is legal, and if it finds laxity in your "armor", it will certainly benefit from mission. React to the violent behavior of a bulldog firmly, but at the same time do not show cruelty to pets. Screaming, rudeness and hitting will make the dog withdrawn and angry, and it will not soon be considered the owner and best friend. Tell your dissatisfaction in a stern tone, but be honest: the animal perfectly catches false notes and in this case, simply does not take your words seriously.

Training a bull terrier will take more than one month. Representatives of this breed have very scattered attention, so you will have to constantly maintain attention. Classes should not be monotonous and long, otherwise, the pet will get bored and will think about anything other than carrying out commands. Notice that your dog's attention has shifted to another? The preferred treatment will force the bull terrier to stop flying in the clouds and return to the training process.

Train with the animal firmly and calmly, not forgetting to praise it for obedience. Timely intervention and correction of behavior will make a faithful companion of the Bull Terrier. It is better for people with a light character to choose another, less dominant breed of dog. 

Care and maintenance

Dog pee refers to dog breeds that are very unpretentious in the care. The short hair of the animal needs to be combed weekly (no more than three times). To remove hair, use a brush with hard bristles, but in the molting period, it is better to have a special glove for grooming. It will greatly facilitate the care of your pet's coat. Representatives of the breed molt twice a year: in the fall and spring.

Forget about regular water treatments: Bulldogs don't need them. Bathe your pet when the coat becomes dirty using a mild dog shampoo. However, wiping the bull terrier's trunk with a sponge or towel is sufficient. Do you want to give your coat a healthy shine? Arm yourself with suede and walk through the hair. The effect will not belong incoming!

Don't bathe your Bull Terrier after a walk (of course, if you don't go exploring the country road while it rains). It is enough to wash the paws under the pouring winter. To avoid cracks on the dry surface of the pads, lubricate them with vegetable oil. This rule of care for Bull Terriers is especially important in the winter when the sidewalks are sprinkled with salt and reagents.

Regularly check the eyes and ears of the pet: this will help prevent the timely development of infectious diseases. To remove the secretions accumulated in the corners of the eyes, it is recommended to use a special liquid that can be found in pet stores. As for the care of the vessels, wipe them once a week with a damp cotton pad. 

Since Bull Terriers are very active and need regular, long walks, their claws will usually grind on their own. However, it is still recommended to buy a claw cutter and trim the claws once a month to save your pet from uncomfortable sensations. 

No less important is the care of the oral cavity of a bull terrier. It is necessary to allocate time once a week to brush the animal's teeth, using dog paste. As for the devices, you can buy a nozzle on the finger or do the usual toothbrush.

Please note that representatives of the breed are prone to allergies to insect bites. For the same reason, it is recommended to treat the Bull Terrier's coat with special means against foreign parasites. You can use tablets, spray, or drops. The collar is suitable as a "heavy artillery", the effect of which can be observed only when worn for a long time. 

The Bull Terrier's diet is usually built in two directions: premium dry food or natural food. The combination of the two options is fraught with problems in the digestive system of the dog. Choose food taking into account the age and weight of your pet. Therefore, a puppy needs more minerals and vitamins than an adult.

When feeding with natural food, you will have to think about a balanced diet yourself. It is recommended that you contact your vet for advice on vitamins for your bull terrier.

Among the mandatory products are the following:

raw lean meat (before pouring boiling water);

quail eggs (no more than once per week);

vegetable oil (daily for 1 teaspoon);

beef or chicken offal;

Boneless boiled sea fish.

Buckwheat and rice cereal.

Kefir and low-fat cottage cheese.

Seasonal vegetables.

It is forbidden to include in the diet:

river fish in any form;

Hot and salty foods.

smoked products

fatty meat

sweets.

pastries;

Try to stick to your feeding schedule. Fill the bowl after the walk and leave it for 10-15 minutes: during this time the Bull Terrier will eat exactly as much as he needs. The pet must have constant access to freshwater. It is recommended to use bottled or flowing (after it has settled for 7-8 hours).  

Dog urine health and diseases

Representatives of the breed do not have specific genetic defects, but dogs are often exposed to certain diseases. of between it:

Dislocation of the knees and elbows.

Inversion or volvulus of the eyelids.

Laryngeal hypoplasia.

Joint dysplasia.

Aortic stenosis.

rash

epilepsy;

Deafness.

An adult pet has a high risk of developing cancer. Puppies can suffer from a rare disease - deadly bush dermatitis.

When buying a Bull Terrier, do not forget that the delicate skin of the dog is very sensitive, so walking in the summer heat is fraught with sunburn. Carefully expel mosquitoes from the pet: even one bite can provoke urticaria and severe itching.

How to choose a puppy

The best place to buy a Bull Terrier is a kennel that specializes in this breed. Only here you will get a vaccinated child with a good pedigree. Do not miss the opportunity to get acquainted with the parents of the future pet: their behavior will allow you to understand what to expect from the Bull Terrier in the future.

Pay attention to the conditions of keeping puppies. The place should be well heated, and children should be at a distance from possible drafts. Choose the most cheerful and active pet and examine them carefully. First of all, it is recommended to check the hearing: due to the structure of the head and ears, the bull often suffers from deafness. It should be moderately well fed and well prepared.

The optimal age to buy a Bull Terrier puppy is 2.5-3 months. In this case, you will have a balanced and healthy baby who is no longer dependent on the mother and is ready to explore the world under your strict guidance.