Say hello to the Miniature Bull Terrier, one of the most energetic, spunky little dogs you’ll ever see. He is funny, cheerful, and always seems up to something, which is why these little guys can make great family pets. And while he may be small, he is just as “bull-headed” as the Bull Terrier. So, be warned, this little guy has a mind and a real independent streak. Also, these guys are one of the most active breeds out there – so don’t be surprised if you find your Miniature Bull Terrier running around, barking, or even digging; this is what they do!
You see…
These guys always seem full of curiosity and wonder and tend to fancy themselves as an amateur detective, which is probably why they’re always looking for something or the other. This brings us to the million-dollar question, which is…
“Is a Miniature Bull Terrier the right dog for you?”
And while we may feel that the Miniature Bull Terrier is a perfect dog for singles, couples, or families with slightly older children (aged four and above), that doesn’t mean you’ll feel the same. This is why we wanted to take a moment and discuss what it might be like to own one of these excellent little dogs so that you can better understand if one might be right for you.
So, without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Miniature Bull Terrier Fast Facts
Country of Origin: England
Original Purpose: Companion animal
Height: 10 to 14 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 20 to 35 pounds
Dog Breed Classification: Terrier group
Life Span: 11 or 12 years
Origin of the Miniature Bull Terrier
Where does the Miniature Bull Terrier come from? From England, of course! This makes perfect sense seeing how some of the most popular terrier dogs in the world come from England. But unlike many other “terriers” that have been around for 100’s years, the Miniature Bull Terrier is a relatively new and “modern” creation. The Miniature Bull Terrier was developed in the early 19th century by crossing the now-extinct White English Terrier with the ever-popular English Bulldog.
And because…
The Bull Terriers of old came in many different sizes and colors; the Miniature Bull Terrier or the Toy Bull Terrier also did. Only it should be noted that early on, two “smaller” sized Bull Terriers were created. The Miniature that we all know and love and the “toy Bull Terrier” never really became all that popular is why today, we only have the Miniature to know and love.
So much so that…
A Miniature Bull Terrier Club was formed in England in 1938. And while the Bull Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1885, it took them some time to offer the same honor to the Miniature variety. The breed was only added to the American Kennel Club’s Miscellaneous Class in 1963. Fortunately (28 years later), the Miniature Bull Terrier was finally “officially” recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1991.
Physical Characteristics
Miniature Bull Terriers are smaller versions of the Bull Terrier. These are solid and muscular dogs despite their small size. The adult dog is between 10 and 14 inches in height and up to 20 to 34 pounds in weight. These dogs have a squarish body shape, short but intense back, low set tail, trim, almond-shaped eyes, and tiny ears. They have a distinctive big, egg-shaped head, a long muscular neck, and a broad chest.
They also have…
A shiny, short, flat, coarse-textured coat that comes in different colors such as red, fawn, brindle, black-brindle, white, or tricolor.
Personality and Temperament
“He is like a child in a lot of ways…”
The Miniature Bull Terrier, or Bully, as he is called, is a sweet, innocent dog and very trusting. He is loyal to his human family and considers you his leader. He loves kids and sees them as his siblings. He loves playing with children; he wants to be involved in their games and every little thing they do. And kids adore him. There can’t be a better playmate for a slightly older child than a Miniature Bull Terrier.
But he may not…
Be the right dog to bring home if you have a toddler, as there is a risk that he might snap at the child if they misbehave with him – you know how hard it is to control toddlers around dogs!
Remember: Bullies are very possessive dogs and tend to suffer from Separation Anxiety whenever you stay away from them for too long. They crave human company.
Potential Health Concerns
The Miniature Bull Terrier is a very healthy breed. He has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. However, he is known to suffer from specific health issues related to the eyes, such as blindness due to lens dislocation. He may suffer from other health problems such as…
- Allergies,
- Congenital deafness (In white versions),
- Compulsive tail chasing,
- Entropion,
- Mitral valve dysplasia,
- Subaortic stenosis,
- Lens luxation.
And while many of these conditions may not be life-threatening, they can become quite expensive, particularly if they become recurring issues. This is why we here at IndulgeYourPet also recommend that any new pet owner take a moment and see what it might cost for you to purchase a pet insurance policy for your new animal.
Now will a pet insurance policy be suitable for everyone?
No, probably not. But until you fully understand what these policies “will” and “won’t” cover and how much these pet insurance policies cost, how will you know if one might be right for you?
For more information on who we feel currently offers the “best” pet insurance policies out there, we would encourage you to check out our Best Pet Insurance Policies article.
