Breeds
Bull Terrier: Temperament, Size, Lifespan & Care
A Bull Terrier is a playful, affectionate, mischievous clown with an egg-shaped head and a lot of strength in a medium-sized body. Bull Terriers love their people and enjoy fun and games, but they are independent free-thinkers that train best when training feels like play, and many do not get along with other dogs. Here is what to expect on size, lifespan, health, exercise and training.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 14, 20264 min read2 sources
Bull Terrier temperament and personality
The AKC rates the Bull Terrier four out of five for affection, playfulness, energy and openness to strangers. It describes the breed as having the tenacity and courage of the Bulldog with a terrier's spirit, an independent free-thinker more committed to fun and games than to a work ethic.
The AKC also rates the breed one out of five with other dogs, the lowest score on its scale. Many Bull Terriers do best as the only dog or with a carefully chosen companion, and early, positive socialization is essential.
How big do Bull Terriers get?
The AKC lists the Bull Terrier at 21 to 22 inches tall and 50 to 70 pounds. They are robust, big-boned terriers with a jaunty stride and the breed's hallmark long, egg-shaped head, erect pointed ears and small triangular eyes.
Coats come in two types, white or any other color including brindle, solid or with white markings. A separate AKC breed, the Miniature Bull Terrier, is smaller. Keep a Bull Terrier fit and muscular rather than heavy.
Bull Terrier lifespan and common health issues
The AKC gives a Bull Terrier lifespan of 12 to 13 years. It says owners of breeding dogs should show proof of testing for kidney and heart issues, and that puppies should be tested for hearing before leaving the breeder. Recommended tests are patella and cardiac evaluations, BAER hearing testing and a urine protein-to-creatinine ratio for kidney health.
VCA explains that a slipping kneecap can cause a skip in the step or brief three-legged running. Ask a breeder for parent heart, kidney, knee and hearing results, and see your vet about increased thirst, a limp or signs of poor hearing. White Bull Terriers can also burn in strong sun, so offer shade.
Exercise needs
The AKC says Bull Terriers benefit from daily, moderate exercise with good mental and physical stimulation, such as long family walks. Developed for sport as well as companionship, they have great strength and agility.
The AKC recommends canine sports such as obedience, tracking, agility and coursing ability tests. Flirt-pole games, fetch and tug in a fenced yard burn energy, and a secure leash on walks is a must given the breed's strength and reactions to other dogs.
Grooming and shedding
The short, flat, harsh, glossy coat needs minimal maintenance, the AKC says: a weekly brush with a soft-bristle brush or hound glove removes dirt and loose hair. Shedding is three out of five on the AKC scale. Regular handling sessions also make it easier to spot lumps, skin changes, ticks or sore spots early.
The AKC advises inspecting and cleaning the ears regularly and trimming nails often. Brush the teeth regularly and check the skin, especially on white dogs, for redness or irritation.
Training a Bull Terrier
The AKC's advice is to make training fun, because Bull Terriers operate on the principle that if it is fun they will do it, and if not, why bother. Short, game-based sessions with play and treats work far better than repetition.
Start puppy classes and socialization early, particularly with other dogs. Teach a solid drop-it and leave-it, and practice calm leash walking past other dogs at a comfortable distance. Consistent, patient, positive handling brings out the best in this breed.
Are Bull Terriers good with kids and other pets?
The AKC rates the Bull Terrier three out of five with young children. Many are playful, sturdy family dogs, but their strength and boisterous play can be too much for toddlers, so supervise and teach calm games.
With other dogs, the AKC rating is one out of five, so introductions need care and some Bull Terriers are best as the only dog. Terrier instincts make small pets a poor match without careful management.
What a Bull Terrier needs at home
Useful kit includes a secure fence, a sturdy harness and leash, a crate, very durable chew and tug toys, puzzle feeders, a soft-bristle brush or hound glove, nail clippers and sun protection such as shade for white dogs.
Rotate tough toys to keep a busy mind entertained. Book a vet visit soon after bringing your Bull Terrier home and ask about hearing, kidney and heart checks and a plan for meeting other dogs.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
How long do Bull Terriers live?
The AKC lists a lifespan of 12 to 13 years. Screened parents, a lean weight, daily exercise and regular vet checks, including kidney and heart health, help a Bull Terrier live a long life.
How big does a Bull Terrier get?
The AKC lists a height of 21 to 22 inches and a weight of 50 to 70 pounds. The Miniature Bull Terrier is a separate, smaller AKC breed.
Are Bull Terriers good with other dogs?
Often not. The AKC rates the breed one out of five with other dogs. Early socialization helps, but many Bull Terriers do best as the only dog or with one carefully matched companion.
What is a Bull Terrier's temperament like?
Playful, affectionate, clownish and independent. They love fun and their people, but train best when lessons feel like games, and they need daily exercise. Individual dogs vary, so meeting the parents, or the adult dog itself, is the best guide.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.
