GROUP 2 - TERRIERS

Brief History
One of the oldest terrier breed indigenous to England. The Bull Terrier was bred for combat with other dogs and animals during the early 1800’s from the bulldog and various terriers. However, since the late 1800s, when these blood sports were banned, the Bull Terrier has been bred as a companion dog.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. The average life span is 11 to 13 years.

Temperament
A clown, busy, dominant.

Bull Terriers are both the clowns and the gladiators of the dog world. They have a sense of humour and imagination. Puppies are extremely “busy” and many remain active until middle age. They may well challenge the owner for dominance. A well trained Bull Terrier is devoted to its owners and fits well into active families where it receives a great deal of companionship and supervision. They will not do well in a situation where they are alone for long periods, or where physical activity is very restricted. Inquisitive problem solvers, they can become destructive if bored. Bull Terriers can enjoy the company of other dogs and animals if introduced as a puppy, however, males should never be kept with other male dogs. Care must be taken around any animals that may perceived as threats or prey. They should never be let off lead in public areas as altercations with other dogs can be serious.

General Breed Description
The Bull Terrier should be really strongly built for a dog of medium size. They are muscular, well balanced and very active with a keen determined expression. Their unique features are their egg-shaped head and small triangular eyes. White animals should be pure white, with head markings. Coloured animals, where colour predominates are brindle, black brindle, red, fawn, and tri-colour.

Coat and Care Requirements
Smooth coated, Bull Terriers shed all year round, and some people are irritated by the course hairs. They are natural sun-bakers and care should be taken that they are protected from the sun as they will get sunburned.  A Bull Terrier requires a securely fenced, average to large sized backyard, The breed requires a considerable amount of human companionship, total involvement with the family activities at home and regular walks on lead. You cannot overestimate the power or determination of a Bull Terrier.

Size
There are neither weight nor height limits, but there should be the impression of maximum substance for size of dog consistent with quality and sex.

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed health and what health testing the breeder does.

Suitability
The Bull Terrier suits an owner able to provide assertive leadership, as they may constantly challenge the owner for dominance.  Bull Terriers love being part of a family, but can be boisterious and excited. As with all dogs, children and pets should always be supervised when together. Owning a Bull Terrier is a big responsibility and the breed deserves responsible and caring owners.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/40