Miniature Bull Terrier Dog Breed

This small dog is an attractive Bull Terrier breed without the exaggerations that make the standard Bull Terrier so unusual. Its size is perfect, standing at only ten to fourteen inches tall, though he is little too small to have the guard-dog power of his bigger brother. The Miniature Bull Terrier is an alert and active breed and makes a fantastic watchdog. It is excellent with children and has proven to be great family dog.

The development of the Bull Terrier started around 200 years ago in England when the Bulldog and White English Terrier were crossed to create a breed then called the Bull and Terrier. Some breed experts believe that the Black and Tan Terrier was also an ancestor, as was the Spanish Pointer. Although never one to back down from a challenge, the Bull Terrier was called the White Cavalier for his wonderful temperament. The medium-sized dogs, then ranging from 15 to 17 pounds, became known as Miniature Bull Terriers, while the larger dogs were simply called Bull Terriers.

Physical Traits

As mentioned above, the size of the Miniature Bull Terrier stands up to 14 inches tall. He is strongly constructed, proportionate, has a long deep head and a full oval face. Without having any indentations, his head should be filled up completely. The forehead is flat from ear to ear. He has small ears that are thin and close together. The eyes are small, well sunken, and triangular. The neck is very powerful and long. His back is short and strong for his small size. The tail is short and set low from behind which tapers to a point. The shoulders of the Miniature Bull Terrier are strong without heaviness, while the legs are heavy boned with forelegs of moderate length. His coat is short and flat and will always contain the color white in it, whether completely white or with patches.

Health & Physical Needs

Little information can be found regarding hereditary and congenital defects of the Miniature Bull Terrier, but the information that most authors have suggests that there are very few problems with this breed. This is remarkable, for the Mini Bull is both a bantamized breed and a breed which has developed from a relatively small breed base. However, it is true that its parent breed, the Bull Terrier, also have very few hereditary problems. Some Deafness in the lines should be carefully checked.

The Mini Bull is a moderately active breed. He enjoys brisk walks, a chance to train in agility,and a good romp in the backyard. The breed can be busy and, if left alone for too many hours, also destructive.

Training:

Mini Bulls need early training and socialization. Trainingshould be structured and firm, and the owner must establishleadership. The Miniature Bull Terrier Club of America says, “The dogs are active, stubborn (not stupid), and demanding of interaction. They need a firm, intelligent, consistent disciplinarian.”

Grooming:

The coat is short and flat. White Mini Bulls should be pure white, while colored Mini Bulls may be of any color. Grooming consists of a weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush.