Miniature Bull Terrier

Height: 10 - 14 inches
Weight: 25 - 33 pounds
Life span: 11 - 14 years
AKC group: Terrier
AKC rank: 129

Breed History | Background:

When bull baiting and dog fighting were outlawed in England, many patrons of the bull and terrier breed, which was a popular gladiator, decided to clean up the dog’s image. They bred for personality and appearance, and began to compete in dogs shows successfully.
Around 1860, James Hinks crossed the bull and terrier with the white English terrier and the Dalmatian, producing an all-white strain he called the bull terrier. These dogs became sought after as stylish companions for young gentlemen.
In the early days, the breed had a great range in acceptable sizes. In fact, tiny bull terriers as small as 4 pounds were recorded early on. These toy bull terriers were not very good specimens and eventually faded from the scene, but the slightly larger miniature bull terriers caught on.
The English Kennel Club recognized the miniature bull terrier in 1939.
The AKC recognized the miniature bull terrier in 1991.

Behavioral concerns:

Makes a loyal and lively companion.
Playful, comical and often mischievous.
Very good with children.
Fairly friendly toward strangers.
Not very friendly towards strange dogs.
Usually good with other pets.
The bull terrier learns quickly, but can be stubborn and independent. It tends to rebel against forceful methods.
Does best with a firm owner who can combine reward-based training with good control and leadership.
Some like to dig a lot.

Suggested exercise needs:

Makes a calm and alert housedog as long as it receives regular exercise.
Requires daily exercise in the form of a walk, short jog, or energetic games.
The miniature bull terrier enjoys cold weather outings but its short coat is not suited to living outside.
Obedience training is essential not only for control, but for the mental exercise it provides.

Grooming:

Coat is short, flat and harsh.
The coat needs only occasional brushing, once every week or so, to remove dead hair.
Shedding is average.

Suggested Nutritional Needs:

Miniature bull terriers tend to stay in good weight or tend to be slightly overweight.
Adult dogs should be fed a balanced diet, with restricted calories if the dog starts to gain too much weight.

Medical conditions seen:

Glossary