Miniature Bull Terrier Information

Identification

• Miniature bull terriers obtain a height of 10 to 14 inches. Their weight ranges from 16 to 35 lbs. The head is oval with a sloping muzzle and small eyes. Miniature bull terriers have a short and sleek coat and the coloring can be either black and tan, fawn, brindle or red. Most coats also have white markings. The body of this breed is very muscular all over. The feet are compact and round and have arched toes, similar to a cat.

Temperament and Personality

• Miniature bull terriers can be quite active, playful and curious. Known for becoming extremely attached to owners, this trait can have drawbacks. Possessiveness and jealousy can occur if your dog is not socialized properly.
  This breed can be good with children with constant and firm discipline. Miniature bull terriers need to be taught how to engage with children; there is a tendency for the dog to become involved in rough play activity and this could result in nipping and knocking down of a smaller child.
  Energy levels are boundless with a miniature bull terrier. You need to devote time to playing with and exercising your pet. Daily walks are recommended. This dog will become bored easily and start with destructive behaviors if left alone for long periods of time.

Health Concerns

• Miniature bull terriers have certain breed specific problems. Lens luxation can occur around 3 years of age. It is the dislocation or displacement of the lens within the eye. If this condition is not caught early, it can result in total blindness.
  Heart defects are occasionally seen in miniature bull terriers. Ask your breeder for test results from cardiology work-ups on both the sire and dam to make certain neither animal was affected with heart disease.
  Sudden lameness can affect a puppy up to a year old. This condition is a combination of rapid growth rate, weight and density of muscle changes, and the character of the breed. To help avoid lameness, do not allow the puppy to take sudden leaps, sudden stops, or change directions when running at high speeds.

Getting Along with Other Pets

• Miniature bull terriers can enjoy and get along with certain dogs. However, mini bull terriers that have not been neutered do not get along with other male dogs indefinitely. One of the males has to be dominant and a fight will ensue. After this type of altercation, the dogs will not live together again without fighting. If you have a male and female miniature bull terrier, they should get along fine. Females also get along with one another without any major problems.
  Miniature bull terriers who have been raised alone in your family will have difficulty sharing attention if you bring another dog home. Jealousy will become an issue and it will take time and patience to assure the older dog that the younger dog belongs as a member of the family.
  Miniature bull terriers can get along with cats if they are socialized at an early age. The breed can be dangerous to cats if this is not done properly.

Considerations

• Miniature bull terriers have a life expectancy of 11 to 14 years. Due to the strong attachments they form with you, make sure you are able to raise one for the duration of its life.
  Grooming for your dog will include the need for an occasional brushing and wipe down with a damp cloth. This will ensure the coat stays sleek and in good condition. Shedding is average and the miniature bull terrier is not well suited for people with severe allergies.
  Miniature bull terriers do make good family pets. Confidence and assertiveness are necessary for training this breed. Training may be difficult. Miniature bull terriers have a tendency to be bossy, dominant and possessive. Positive and consistent training will ensure you have a positive experience and a well adjusted pet.