Bull Terriers are relatively hardy. However, they have been known to suffer from:

• Kidney disease.
• Heart disease.
• Skin problems.
• Deafness, particularly in white dogs.

Health tests

It is strongly recommended that parent dogs are heart tested, kidney tested, and BAER (brain auditory evoked response) tested - an electronic hearing test which can be carried out from five weeks old. A breeder should be able to provide documentation proving that this has been done. It is advised that you do not buy from a breeder who can't do this.

Bull Terrier temperament

• A unique character who loves to act the clown.
• Has a great sense of humour - and you'll need one too.
• Determined and stubborn.

Bull Terrier lifestyle

• The Bull Terrier is adaptable and will be happy with whatever exercise you can offer.
• Can get on well with children if brought up around them. However, he is a strong and powerful breed and must be taught to respect others. Any show of dominance should be checked before his sheer bulk becomes a problem.
• Despite his hardy appearance he doesn't do well outdoors and would much rather live inside with his family.
• Remember that he is a terrier and may not always be tolerant of other animals. If a Bull Terrier is challenged he will not back down.
• He shouldn't be left alone for long periods. A bored Bull Terrier will occupy himself in ways that may not please you.
• You will need strong and secure fencing in your garden as the Bull Terrier is a regular Houdini.

Bull Terrier trainability

• Lead training is essential.
• The Bull Terrier has a mind of his own and a well-developed stubborn streak.
• You need to be willing to put time into training right from day one.
• Keep training sessions fun and interesting as he will become bored easily.
• Like an elephant, he will never forget - bad habits as well as good.

Bull Terrier general care

• The Bull Terrier has a short, harsh coat which needs minimal brushing.
• That short coat, however, means that he also needs warmth and comfort.
• He can be prone to bed sores so his bed needs to be soft and supportive.
• Watch his weight - he will happily become a couch potato if you let him.
• He loves attention and will demand it. Do not pander to him - he needs to know his place in the family pecking order.
• The Bull Terrier is a notorious chewer and will chew anything. Make sure that he has plenty of specialist hard-wearing toys or you can say goodbye to your furniture, and hello to a trip to the vet's because he's swallowed something he shouldn't.

Pros

• Minimal grooming.
• Good temperament.
• Adaptable.

Cons

• Stubborn - can make training difficult.
• Deafness is known in the breed.

Bull Terrier dog breed facts

• The Bull Terrier hasn't always had erect ears - his ancestors' ears dropped forward.
• Bull Terrier Abraxas Audacity won Best in Show at Crufts in 1972.
• The breed was developed in the 1800s by crossing the Bulldog with the now extinct White English Terrier.