Bull Terrier

Breed Type: Terrier
Common nicknames: Bull Terrier
Coat: Smooth
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Affectionate, energetic, playful, friendly
Life expectancy: 10-14 years
Color & patterns:
Hero image
Bull Terrier - Black brindle and white
Bull Terrier -WHITE
If you’re in the market for a small pooch who thinks they’re the king or queen of the world, then look no further than the Bull Terrier. They may be just under three feet tall, but these pups pack quite the personality within those squat bodies. These energetic pups won’t sit still for long — whether playing fetch or zooming through obstacle courses like they’ve been shot out of a cannon, these terriers live for excitement and stimulation. They form tight bonds with their humans, easily becoming their devoted pets for life, and are always willing to lend a hand (or foot) whenever needed. There’s no mistaking a Bull Terrier when you see one: They have iconic egg-shaped heads and piercing eyes. They can be a variety of colors, including white, brindle, red, tan, and piebald. You won't regret adding this spunky pup to your pack.

Bull Terrier characteristics

Learn about about Bull Terrier basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Bull Terrier facts.

Average height

10-18 inches (25.4-45.7cm)

Average weight

22-82 pounds (10.0-37.2 kg)

Average lifespan

10-14 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
How big do Bull Terriers get?

Bull Terriers come in two sizes: Standard and Miniature. Standard Bull Terriers typically weigh about 50 to 82 pounds and are about 18 to 22 inches tall at the shoulder. Miniature Bull Terriers usually weigh between 18 to 28 pounds and are about 10 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder.

Both sizes share the same distinctive physical characteristics, such as the egg-shaped head and muscular build, but the Miniature Bull Terrier is bred to be a smaller version of the Standard Bull Terrier.

Do Bull Terriers shed?

Yes, Bull Terriers shed. They have a short, dense coat that sheds throughout the year, with potentially heavier shedding during seasonal changes, such as in the spring and fall. To manage shedding, brush the coat once or twice a week.

What does a Bull Terrier look like?

Bull Terriers are short-haired, medium-sized dogs with strong, muscular bodies. The unique, egg-shaped head is long and flat on top, with no noticeable stop (the area where the forehead meets the muzzle). Their dark, deep-set eyes are small and triangular, and their erect ears are small, thin, and close together.

Is a Bull Terrier a Pit Bull?

No, a Bull Terrier is not a Pit Bull. The term “Pit Bull” is often used as an umbrella term that can refer to several breeds, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and sometimes the American Bulldog. Bull Terriers and these breeds are related but separate, each with unique breed standards and characteristics. 

How long does a Bull Terrier live?

Bull Terriers live around 12 to 13 years on average. An individual dog’s lifespan can vary depending on genetics, overall health, diet, exercise, and veterinary care.

When do Bull Terriers stop growing?

Bull Terriers stop growing in height by about 12 to 18 months of age. However, they might continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until they are around two to two and a half years old.

Bull Terrier history

Learn about where this Bull Terrier came from!

What were Bull Terriers bred for?

Bull Terriers were originally bred to participate in blood sports, including bull-baiting and dog fighting. The breed was created by crossing the Old English Bulldog with the now-extinct Old English Terrier. Later, other breeds, such as the Spanish Pointer, were introduced. When the cruel activities of bull-baiting and dog fighting were banned, the breed’s role shifted toward being a loving and friendly pet.

Where is the Bull Terrier from?

The Bull Terrier is from England, where the breed was initially used for dog fighting and vermin control. No longer a fighter, today’s Bull Terrier is a playful and affectionate companion dog.

Bull Terrier temperament

Learn about about the Bull Terrier temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Are Bull Terriers good with kids?

Yes, Bull Terriers can be good with kids when their pet parents properly socialize and train them. Bull Terriers are generally affectionate and playful, which can make them good companions for children. They often enjoy being part of family activities and can form strong bonds with children.

However, some Bull Terriers are more tolerant and patient with children than others. Always assess each dog’s temperament and behavior on an individual basis. As with any breed, it’s essential to supervise interactions between Bull Terriers and young children, especially to prevent unintentional rough play or accidents. Teaching children how to properly approach and handle dogs is also crucial.

Do Bull Terriers bark a lot?

No, Bull Terriers don’t bark a lot. They tend to be moderate barkers, barking when they have a reason, such as when they are excited, want attention, or sense something unusual. However, like any breed, individual Bull Terriers might vary in their barking habits. If a Bull Terrier is barking excessively, it could be a sign of boredom, anxiety, or lack of exercise, so addressing these needs can help resolve the behavior.

Are Bull Terriers good dogs?

Yes, Bull Terriers are good dogs, but whether they are a good fit depends on your lifestyle and expectations. Bull Terriers form strong bonds with their families. They are affectionate and enjoy being around people. They have high energy levels, so they need regular exercise and mental stimulation. Without adequate exercise, they can become bored and potentially destructive. Though intelligent, Bull Terriers can be independent and stubborn, which makes training challenging.

Are Bull Terriers good with cats?

Some Bull Terriers are good with cats, but not all are. Some Bull Terriers have a high prey drive, so they might chase small animals like cats. However, not all Bull Terriers exhibit this behavior, and individual personalities vary.

Are Bull Terriers good with other dogs?

Some Bull Terriers are good with other dogs, but this varies. Some Bull Terriers might have a dominant or assertive temperament around other dogs. Introducing Bull Terriers to other dogs from a young age and providing positive experiences can help them learn appropriate social behaviors. Not all Bull Terriers will get along with every dog they meet, so patience, supervision, and proper socialization are key.

Are Bull Terriers smart?

Yes, Bull Terriers are smart dogs. They have the capacity to learn commands, tricks, and behaviors relatively quickly. Their intelligence, combined with their playful and curious nature, makes them capable problem solvers. However, they can also be stubborn, which might affect their willingness to follow commands or comply with training.

Are Bull Terriers friendly dogs?

Yes, Bull Terriers are friendly dogs, especially toward their families and people they know well. Bull Terriers typically enjoy being part of family activities and thrive on attention and affection from their families.

Their reaction to strangers can vary. Some Bull Terriers are very friendly and welcoming to new people, while others might be more reserved or cautious. Early socialization can help them be more comfortable with unfamiliar people.

Do Bull Terriers like to cuddle?

Yes, many Bull Terriers like to cuddle and be close to their people. However, individual preferences can vary among Bull Terriers, and not all Bull Terriers like to cuddle as much as others. Some might prefer to be close to their people but not necessarily touching, while others might seek out physical affection and closeness.

Are Bull Terriers easy to train?

No, Bull Terriers are not easy to train compared to some other breeds. Although they are intelligent, they can be independent and stubborn. They might not always follow commands if they see no immediate benefit or if they sense inconsistency or lack of leadership in their training.

However, it's worth noting that training any dog takes substantial time and effort, regardless of breed. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards, praise, and treats, tend to work best with many dogs, including Bull Terriers.

Bull Terrier health

Learn about about the Bull Terrier health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Do Bull Terriers have health problems?

Yes, Bull Terriers are prone to certain health problems, as is the case with many dog breeds. Some of the health issues commonly seen in Bull Terriers include:

  • Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO): Otherwise known as "Lion Jaw," this excessive bone growth in the jaw can cause discomfort to your Bull Terrier when they chew. Though it is quite painful and can cause feeding issues, most puppies grow out of it once they reach adulthood.

  • Lens Luxation: Lens luxation is a type of dislocation that occurs when the support ligaments of the lens (a sphere-shaped area of the eye that focuses light on the retina) weaken or break. The weakening of the ligaments causes the lens to dislocate from its normal position. When the lens falls forward, proper drainage of fluid from the eye is prevented, and this can lead to glaucoma. The condition is also very painful and can cause blindness if the luxation is not surgically fixed.

  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Bull Terriers are known to obsessively chase their tails. The behavior usually begins around six months of age and can continue for hours. If a Bull Terrier is chasing his tail to the point where he will not eat or drink, a trip to the vet is recommended.

  • Congenital deafness: Bull Terriers, especially those with white coats, can be born deaf in one or both ears.

  • Skin conditions: Bull Terriers can be prone to skin allergies, dermatitis, and other skin issues, which may require management through proper grooming, diet, and veterinary care.

  • Heart disease: Bull Terriers may be susceptible to various heart conditions, including mitral valve dysplasia and dilated cardiomyopathy.

Are Bull Terriers hypoallergenic?

No, Bull Terriers are not hypoallergenic. Their short, dense coat sheds moderately throughout the year, which can potentially trigger allergies in some individuals who are sensitive to pet dander.

How much exercise does a Bull Terrier need?

Bull Terriers are an active and energetic breed that needs daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. As a general guideline, Bull Terriers typically require at least one to two hours of exercise per day. This exercise should include a combination of physical activities such as brisk walks, jogging, play sessions, and interactive games, including fetch or agility training. Bull Terriers also benefit from mental stimulation, so incorporating activities that engage their mind, such as training sessions, puzzle toys, or scent games, can help prevent boredom and keep them mentally sharp.

Popular Bull Terrier mixes

Characteristics of a Bull Terrier mix can vary widely depending on the specific breeds involved, the individual dog’s genetics, and its upbringing. A few common Bull Terrier mixes include:

  • Bullhuahua (Bull Terrier + Chihuahua)

  • Bully Jack (Bull Terrier + Jack Russell Terrier)

  • Rottbull (Bull Terrier + Rottweiler)

  • BD Terrier (Bull Terrier + American Bulldog)

Bull Terrier Mixes picture

Find Bull Terrier puppies near you

Adopting a Bull Terrier

Learn about acquiring a Bull Terrier - the pros and cons of adopting versus going through a breeder, and associated costs.

Photo of Sena

Sena

Bull Terrier

Female, young

Whitehall, OH

Color
Tricolor (Tan/Brown & Black & White)
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Good with kids
Good with dogs
Good with cats
Needs experienced adopter
House-trained
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Sena was abandoned in my neighborhood about 7 months ago. She was starved and abused. I have never been a dog person, but I wanted to help her so I placed a lost pet ad and no response. She has all her shots and I was going to get her fixed, but since I have on going medical needs and also might be unemployed soon. Sena is gentle and loves to play with toys. She loves to fetch. My yard is very small and I also cannot take her for walks. She has never growled at me or caused me to fear her. I am also willing to help with the cost for getting her fixed when that time comes. She loves my grandchildren and wants to play. I would like to see her with another dog for a playmate. She is also create trained at night and prefers to sleep all night there.
Photo of Otis

Otis

Bull Terrier Bull Terrier

Male, senior

Columbus, OH

Color
White - with Brown or Chocolate
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Not good with kids
Not good with dogs
Not good with cats
Needs experienced adopter
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Otis is an11 yr old bull terrier, house trained and always wanting to play. Loves tug of war walks/hikes and swimming. I adopted him in 2014 as a 7 month old puppy and he’s been with me since. My wife and I have a small child which he has shown anxiousness with and I’m afraid they cannot co habitat. Needs a home with no pets or small children. Has shown food aggression and doesn't like to be bothered when laying in his bed. Would be a great companion for the right owner.
Photo of KIMBER

KIMBER

Bull Terrier American Staffordshire Terrier

Female, 5 yrs 6 mos

Plain City, OH

Color
White
Size
(when grown) Large 61-100 lbs (28-45 kg)
Details
Not good with dogs
Not good with cats
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Meet Kimber - if you are looking for a low maintenance dog that loves to watch TV, cuddle, play with toys, and curl up in blankets, this is your girl.Kimber is a very sweet female cuddle bug that is a 5 years old bull terrier mix that weighs 55 pounds. She went through the obedience training program at the prison and has learned so much! She loves all people including older kids, is house trained and goes in her crate when her foster is away. She does want to be the only pet in her home and would do best with a fenced-in yard. She will go on walks but doesn't necessarily need them. She loves sleeping in bed or watching TV. Kimber is a smart girl that loves her human attention and has done great at all events we have taken her to. She has been great with every single person she's met and her fav person is the mailman since he always brings treats.Kimbers ideal home would be calm and quiet with her people nearby. She would do fine with respectful older children or an adult only house. Our girl is a homebody and just enjoys being with her family. Her foster mom would be glad to answer any questions. Kimber is truly a WONDERFUL dog. If you're interested in meeting this loving girl, apply at www.caninecollective.org. She deserves a forever home! Note: Without a DNA test or direct information about the parents, the breed listed is based on our best guess or from the use of a breed identification app