While most of their tenacious terrier ancestors and kin were first used for hunting vermin and therefore now have an innately spirited and aggressive (or assertive) characters with the tendencies to chase moving creatures and objects, Bull Terriers have an additional history of baiting bulls»and then, later, fighting. Yet today, Bull Terriers»while having an intimidating appearance--are quite playful and truly loving and loveable.
Once dubbed «The White Cavaliers» for their bull-baiting abilities, Bull Terriers first came into being in England in the early 1800»s. A cross between the first Bulldog breed and the last (now-extinct) White English Terrier, they were made to bait bulls, primarily, but also to fight in blood sports events against badgers, vermin, and other dogs. Fortunately, blood sports were outlawed (in 1835)»but not until after the crossbred animals were again crossed with a Spanish Pointer (to give it more bulk).
Bull Terriers are survivors, though, and are quite adaptable, so following the elimination of pit fighting, they slowly lost their viciousness and grit, especially by the time the new breeder, James Hinks, came on the scene to develop a purebred all white dog, which took Bull Terriers from the sides of sportsmen and brought them into the homes of gentlemen. Here they retained the instinct to fight and protect with great agility if necessary, but more, adapted to a simple, active life they now enjoy.
So, more in need of affection than fight, Bull Terriers today need only occasional exercising with just as much and more human and other animal companionship. As well, these 19 to 20 -inch and healthy 45 to 55-pound dogs with the short but harsh colored or all white coats need minor grooming: a once-a-week bristle brushing or rubber brushing is all they need.
But most of all, while they demand much less than they give, with their innate penchant for the feisty activity of conflict, pit fighting, and bull-baiting, these muscular and tough-looking but fun-loving Bull Terriers need company and companionship.
They do not like being alone at all, and will grow destructive and disagreeable when trapped in a house for eight hours. And without specific socialization and training, their natural energy can run rampant, thereby being too much for most children and/or for people of any age or mindset. In other words, while they have come a long way from their ancestors days and no longer run with the bulls or bite and chew to the death other breeds, they do not favor the stagnation of staying inside the ranch house all day long with no guidance and no attention.
