9 Essential Insights About Bull Terriers

Spending time with this charming and humorous breed is always a delight, as their personality matches their distinctive appearance. Discover everything you should know about bull terriers.

1. Originally, bull terriers were developed for combat purposes. 

Bull terriers trace their lineage directly to bull-and-terriers. As the name implies, they were bred by crossing bulldogs with various terriers, aiming to combine the terrier's determination and agility with the bulldog's strength to create the perfect pit fighter. This breed was often referred to as a “canine gladiator.”

Following the Humane Act of 1835, which banned dog fighting and similar blood sports in England, bull terriers were repurposed for activities like ratting and as loyal companions. 

2. A single individual took it upon himself to refine the bull terrier's image. 

During the 1860s, James Hinks from Birmingham, England, recognized the potential in these dogs and aimed to transform them into a unique breed. He introduced crosses with the now-extinct white terrier, the Dalmatian, and possibly the border collie. Hinks focused on breeding dogs that were entirely white, featuring elongated faces and straight legs. This refined version of the breed showcased a more uniform and polished appearance compared to its ancestors.

Initially, these refined dogs were exclusively white and known as “White Cavaliers.” Over time, bull terriers were crossbred with Staffordshire bull terriers, resulting in dogs with colors like brown, black, red, and brindle. The breed quickly gained popularity, leading to the formation of the Bull Terrier Club of America in 1897.  

3. Bull terriers possess some of the most unique facial features in the dog world. 

Bull terriers are celebrated for their elongated, egg-shaped heads that curve into a Roman nose at the front. Their eyes are equally distinctive, as the bull terrier is the sole recognized breed with triangular-shaped eyes.

4. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is frequently observed in bull terriers.

While a dog chasing its tail might appear endearing, it could also indicate that the dog suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder. Research has revealed that bull terriers and German shepherds are significantly more prone to compulsively chasing their tails compared to other breeds. Additional symptoms of the disorder include obsessive shadow chasing and repetitive pacing. Concerned about your dog's compulsive actions? Engaging your pet in activities can be beneficial.

5. Bull terriers are often considered the jesters of the canine kingdom. 

Despite their muscular and imposing appearance, bull terriers are incredibly affectionate and gentle. Renowned for their playful and humorous nature, they are ideal companions for energetic families. These dogs thrive on playtime and often find themselves in amusing predicaments. 

6. Deafness is a condition found in some bull terriers.

Similar to Dalmatians and other piebald-coated breeds, bull terriers can experience hearing issues. While it was once thought that deafness could be eliminated through selective breeding, many breeders continued to use deaf dogs. Some were unaware that breeding dogs with partial deafness could result in puppies with complete hearing loss. 

7. Bull terriers excel as mascots and spokesdogs. 

Bull terriers are no strangers to fame. Spuds MacKenzie, a famous bull terrier, served as the mascot for Bud Light. This party-loving dog was portrayed as the ultimate man's companion, often surrounded by a group of women (“Spudettes”). In reality, the charismatic canine was a female named Honey Tree Evil Eye, or “Evie” for short. The public adored her: Between 1987 and 1988, Bud Light sales surged by 20 percent. 

Another easygoing bull terrier in the spotlight is Bullseye, the iconic Target dog. The mascot features Target’s logo as a spot over her eye (rest assured, it’s non-toxic dye). She has starred in commercials since 1999, and while multiple dogs have played the role, the exact number remains a well-kept secret. This beloved dog travels first class, mingles with celebrities, and has even been immortalized in wax at Madame Tussauds in New York. 

8. A bull terrier once served as the official greeter of Juneau, Alaska. 

Patsy Ann, born in 1929, arrived in Juneau as a young puppy. Despite her deafness, this bull terrier had an extraordinary knack for sensing when and where ships would dock. She would eagerly make her way to the wharf to greet the incoming vessels. Recognized as the official greeter, Patsy Ann won the hearts of everyone. In her free time, she visited locals who showered her with food and affection (leading to her becoming quite round in her later years). Some claim she was photographed more frequently than Rin Tin Tin.

Patsy Ann lived a full life until the age of 13, and a statue was created to honor her memory. To this day, Juneau continues to sell merchandise featuring her image.

9. A smaller variant of the bull terrier is available.

While classified as a separate breed, miniature bull terriers offer a compact alternative. These smaller dogs reach a height of around 14 inches, compared to their larger relatives, which can grow up to 21 inches. Additionally, they shed far less than their bigger counterparts.