SmartBreeds.io

Bull Terrier

Bull Terrier is a medium terrier breed from England also known as English Bull Terrier, Bully.

Browse all breeds Try the breed identifier
Bull Terrier

Breed overview

Bull Terrier is a medium terrier breed from England also known as English Bull Terrier, Bully.

Created in the 1860s by James Hinks in Birmingham, England, by crossing the Old English Bulldog with the now-extinct English White Terrier and later adding Dalmatian blood. Originally bred for dog fighting but refined into a gentleman's companion.

People looking into Bull Terrier usually prepare for High exercise needs, Low grooming needs, 50–70 lbs • 21–22 in.

English Bull TerrierBully

History and origin

Bull Terrier is tied to originating from England, specifically Birmingham, with sources often placing its development around 1850 CE.

Bull Terrier is described here as placed in the terrier group and marked as an established breed.

Created in the 1860s by James Hinks in Birmingham, England, by crossing the Old English Bulldog with the now-extinct English White Terrier and later adding Dalmatian blood. Originally bred for dog fighting but refined into a gentleman's companion.

Browse dog breeds from England Browse more terrier breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
terrier
Size
Medium
Origin country
England
Region
Birmingham
Origin year
1850 CE
Weight
50–70 lbs
Height
21–22 in
Lifespan
11–14 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
3 / 5
Good with children
3 / 5
Shedding level
2 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
High exercise needsLow grooming needsChildren score: 3/5Trainability: 3/5

Coat and classification

Bull Terrier is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

ShortFlatHarsh

Bull Terrier is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Distinctive egg-shaped head with no stop
  • Muscular, rounded body with broad chest
  • Small, triangular eyes set close together
  • Short, flat coat usually white or white with colored markings

What this breed is known for

  • Created in the 1860s by James Hinks in Birmingham, England, by crossing the Old English Bulldog with the now-extinct English White Terrier and later adding Dalmatian blood. Originally bred for dog fighting but refined into a gentleman's companion.
  • Famous for their distinctive egg-shaped head with no stop (the point where the forehead meets the muzzle). This unique skull shape developed through selective breeding and is their most recognizable feature.
  • Bull Terriers became iconic through the Target Corporation mascot 'Bullseye' and the mischievous character Spuds MacKenzie in Budweiser commercials during the 1980s. They're known for their playful, sometimes clownish personality.

Health and care notes

Bull Terrier is noted here for High exercise needs and Low grooming needs.

  • Heart Disease
  • Kidney Disease
  • Deafness
  • Luxating Patella

Coat details: Short, Flat, Harsh

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Bull Terrier come from?

Bull Terrier is closely associated with England, especially Birmingham in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Bull Terrier get?

Typical size details for Bull Terrier on this page are 50–70 lbs, 21–22 in, 11–14 years.

What is the Bull Terrier known for?

Created in the 1860s by James Hinks in Birmingham, England, by crossing the Old English Bulldog with the now-extinct English White Terrier and later adding Dalmatian blood. Originally bred for dog fighting but refined into a gentleman's companion.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Bull Terrier reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.