Miniature Bull Terrier
The Miniature Bull Terrier has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.
Origin
The origin of the Miniature Bull Terrier is the same as that of the Standard Bull Terrier. The Bull Terrier was developed in England during the first part of the 19th century. The breed was created as a mix of the Bulldog, Spanish Pointer, Dalmatian, Greyhound, Foxhound and several terriers including the now extinct English White Terrier. The early Bull Terriers, or Bull and Terriers as they were first called, were bred in multiple sizes.
Many of the Miniature Bull Terrier’s ancestors were used as fighting dogs and some believe the Miniature Bull Terrier itself was also bred to be a fighting dog. However, the Miniature Bull Terrier was actually bred to be a companion dog.
Size
The Miniature Bull Terrier weighs 20 to 34 pounds and measures 10 to 14 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Miniature Bull Terrier has a short, flat and shiny coat. The Miniature Bull Terrier is a moderate shedder for most of the year, but sheds more heavily in the spring and fall. Normally, the Miniature Bull Terrier just needs to be brushed once a week, but during their heavy shedding season they will require more frequent brushing. The Miniature Bull Terrier is naturally clean and odor free, and only needs a bath when especially dirty.
Like all dogs, the Miniature Bull Terrier also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Miniature Bull Terrier is active and loving.
Temperament
Nicknamed the “Gladiator of Terriers,” the Miniature Bull Terrier is determined and energetic. Although small, the Miniature Bull Terrier is a natural watch dog. They grow deeply attached to their family and want to watch out for them. As such, they can be suspicious of new people and need plenty of early socialization.
When with their family, the Miniature Bull Terrier is clownish and active. In many ways, the Miniature Bull Terrier is a perpetual puppy. The Miniature Bull Terrier is highly energetic and loves to play. They are happiest when included in their family’s activities, but can sometimes be too rowdy to be good playmates for younger children. They do love children though and can do great with older kids. While boisterous, Miniature Bull Terriers are also quite sweet and affectionate.
Training Needs
The Miniature Bull Terrier is rambunctious, especially as a puppy, and tends to have a stubborn streak. The Miniature Bull Terrier responds best to a firm, but calm owner as well as short, varied training sessions.
The Miniature Bull Terrier can also be aggressive with dogs of the same sex and wary of strangers. The Miniature Bull Terrier should have plenty of early socialization with both dogs and people early and continuously throughout their life.
Activity Level
The Miniature Bull Terrier thrives on exercise, the more the better. The Miniature Bull Terrier is a busy breed that likes to be constantly moving or doing something. They remain playful well past their puppy years. Miniature Bull Terriers need long daily walks in addition to regular time outside in a secure area to run around and play. They especially love to play Frisbee and chase balls.
