Miniature Bull Terrier Breed Description

An Owner's Miniature Bull Terrier Description
When my husband and I both went back to work full-time, we knew that Sparky, our standard size Bull Terrier, would not do well left alone for that length of time each day. We had contemplated getting another standard Bull Terrier, but then we found the Miniature breed and couldn't believe how identical in character the two were. It just seemed like Stubs would be the best fit for Sparky.

Size doesn't matter when it comes to these spunky little terriers. Stubs can hold his own when the rough-housing gets rougher. Whether or not Sparky could beat up on Stubs, we'll never know because there is no rivalry between the two. Stubs is just as courageous as Sparky and just as much fun to watch clown around. I often wonder if they know how much pleasure they are bringing to their owners. I do believe they enjoy when they make us laugh because they will often repeat the same antic if it will get attention.

Both Sparky and Stubs have their limits on how much teasing they will tolerate from the kids and to be sure, it's not much. If you are going to play catch, you'd better throw the ball and stop pretending that you did. They both seem to know when you're getting a laugh at their expense and will become irritated with you in short order.

Stubs can become stubborn at times and it's usually because I'm being too strict a disciplinarian. I stop and remember that these terriers respond best when I'm calm, firm and consistent. These two are twins of different size - brothers from another mother! - two fun dogs to have in our home.

 

Introduction

These dogs are thick-set, muscular, well proportioned animals with a short, dense coat that comes in black brindle, red, fawn, tri-color and pure white Their most distinctive feature is the head, which is almost flat on the top sloping evenly down to the nose with no stop. These dogs are courageous, scrappy, fun-loving, active, clownish and fearless They thrive on affection and make a fine family pet but do not tolerate teasing, so children should be taught to respect them. Loyal and polite, these dogs need lots of exercise and can be somewhat difficult to train. The miniature size weighs 24 to 33 lbs. and stands 10 to 14" at the shoulders.

History

Taking a variety of terriers and bull dogs, James Hinck began breeding Bull Terriers, calling the results Hincks' Breed. These white dogs bore a resemblance to their bear baiting ancestors. Hincks continued breeding, and ended up with dogs who had the distinct egg—shaped head of today's Bull Terrier fairly early on. Several different kennels began to concentrate on miniaturizing this popular breed and by the late 1800s they were broadly available. In 1992, both the standard and the miniature were recognized by the American Kennel Club.

General Description

Miniature Bull Terriers come in white, black, brindle red fawn and tri color. They are truly a line-for-line miniaturized version of the Bull Terrier. The same egg-shaped face forming a smooth arc gives them a clownish appearance. Sturdy neck squarely seats in broad shoulders. Muscles are well-delineated and the overall impression is that of a strong and sturdy dog.

Temperament

The miniature Bull Terrier is the ideal pet for many of today's dog owners. Smaller homes and apartments don't bother this hardy dog as long as it gets regular exercise and play time. Obedience training is mandatory and walking on a lead is necessary even with strong training. Terriers can otherwise take off after vermin or may attempt to exert dominance over other dogs.

Health and Care

It is vital to use a reputable breeder when purchasing a bull terrier as a full 20% of all white dogs of any breed are born deaf. Work with a professional who provides complete blood line information and health guarantees.

Colors

Any color is acceptable, as long as there are few markings on the coat.

Living Area

Miniature Bull Terriers do better in suburban or urban environments, as long as they have some way of getting daily exercise. A suburban house with a fenced yard is best for this, but an urban apartment can also work if you're willing to give the dog daily walks. Rural or sparsely-populated suburban areas will do as well, but it's important to keep the dog indoors and to carefully supervise it when outside in order to avoid fights with other animals.Because of the Miniature Bull Terrier's short coat, it's inadvisable to keep this breed in colder climates. The dog will have no way to deal with colder weather and exercising it will become much more difficult.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

Pets4You offers listings of Miniature Bull Terrier breeders with puppies for sale.