Bull Terrier

Also called English Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier is a medium-sized breed of terrier that was developed in the 19th century in England. It is an active and energetic breed that is loyal and friendly. The Bull Terrier stands between 18-22 inches at the shoulder and has a short and dense coat that can come in various colors.

Weight
44–64 lb (20–29 kg)
Life span
12–15 years
Exercise
About 60 minutes a day
Coat
Short, Smooth
Origin
Birmingham, England (19th century (1850s))

Traits

Family and friends

  • Children: OK with children
  • Other dogs: Wary of other dogs
  • Strangers: Polite with strangers

Home and activity

  • Energy: Energetic
  • Apartment living: Can manage in an apartment
  • Barking: Barks a little
  • Training: Fairly easy to train

Care

  • Grooming: Very little grooming
  • Shedding: Sheds moderately
  • Drooling: Hardly drools

Temperament

Courageous Feisty Loyal Mischievous Playful Stubborn

Coat colours

Black, brindle, fawn, red, tricolour and white

Males and females

MeasureMalesFemales
Weight 55–64 lb (25–29 kg) 44–55 lb (20–25 kg)
Height — —

Recognized by

American Kennel Club (AKC), Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), The Kennel Club (UK) (KC) and United Kennel Club (UKC)


Caring for a Bull Terrier

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Veterinarians

Check-ups and vaccinations through its 12–15 years.

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Dog walkers

Needs about 60 minutes of exercise a day.

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Dog trainers

Can be stubborn: a trainer helps from the start.

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Pet sitters

Someone to look after it while you’re away.

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Breeds of a similar size

All medium breeds
An Airedale Terrier
Medium

Airedale Terrier

Terrier Group

  • Weight:40–51 lb (18–23 kg)
  • Life span:12–14 years
An Irish Terrier
Medium

Irish Terrier

Terrier Group

  • Weight:24–26 lb (11–12 kg)
  • Life span:12–15 years
A Kerry Blue Terrier
Medium

Kerry Blue Terrier

Terrier Group

  • Weight:29–40 lb (13–18 kg)
  • Life span:12–14 years

Sources

Breed details from The Dog API (opens in a new tab).