The Bull Terrier Breed

The Bull Terrier breed was established in the early 1800’s to help with removing the vermin population. A dog with speed, dexterity, and tenacity was created by breeding a bull dog with a more agile dog. By the late 1800’s the breed had evolved to become a fashionable, gentleman’s companion for the upper class due to its distinctive look and larger than life personality. They were and are clowns in a dog suit taking a back seat to no one.

Many bull terriers are famous or have belonged to famous people. Teddy Roosevelt owned one , as well as General Patton. Both dogs were noted for their loyalty and their fighting ability (a trait that got them into trouble on occasion). In Alaska a bull terrier greeted every ship arriving at the port. There is a statue to remember the dog.

They have been in movies such as The Incredible Journey, Oliver Twist, and Toy Story. One of the more well known terriers was Spuds Mackenzie who starred in the Budweiser commercials as the ultimate party animal. He really brought the breed into the public eye. Then, there was Bullseye, the Target mascot, who to this day promotes the breed. While many famous people and organizations have had bull terriers, they are not an easy breed or for the first time dog owner.

They are an independent breed with a stubborn streak and a prey drive that has the ability to drive anyone crazy with their quirks. Though they are fun loving ( always the class clowns) and loyal with a huge dose of mischievousness, they must be dealt with with a steady hand. They are scrappy and thrive on strong, constant leadership.

Terriers always want to be part of the action doing what their humans are doing. They need a boss to tell them what to do, or they will simply create their own rules. They can be aggressive and prefer to be the center of attention. They love to play with everything and will get into trouble without a routine. They exude energy, tend to be hyperactive, and will fixate on anything and be difficult to focus.

Bull Terriers are not for the faint of heart, but they are loving, loyal, comical, and will always keep you on your toes.