The Bull Terrier is known for their uniquely-shaped head. They tend to be playful and affectionate and make a great family pet. Here are a few more facts about Bull Terriers:

1. They Transformed From Fighters to Fashionable Companions

Before the mid-1800s, the Bull Terrier was bred in Britain to be a strong, fierce, and agile dog that could be used for dogfighting, bull-baiting, and other underground blood sports. Thankfully, these blood sports were banned in Britain by the mid-1800s and the modern Bull Terrier was bred to be a family companion and not a fighter.

In fact, as the Bull Terrier breed as we know it today became standardized in the 1860s, they became a fashionable noble companion. The breed was popular with upper-class gentlemen as a refined companion breed. They also rose in popularity in the United States as a family pet during this time. The American Kennel Club recognized them as part of the Terrier Group in 1885.

2. Bull Terriers are Goofy

Because of their muscular frame, they can look serious and slightly intimidating. However, Bull Terriers are actually quite lovable and sweet. Often known as the class clown of the dog world, they possess a goofy side to their personality. Bull Terriers are active and love to play and get into trouble. They’ll have you laughing over their antics and cheer you up on a bad day.

3. They Make Great Spokesdogs

Bull Terriers have often been used in marketing for various brands, which makes them a breed of several famous dogs. Their laidback nature and intelligence make them an easy pick. Most notably is Bullseye, the mascot for Target. With a bullseye over her eye, she has been the mascot for Target since 1999.

Other companies have had Bull Terriers as spokesdogs, too. Bud Light had Spuds Mackenzie, and their sales rose by 20% from 1987 to 1988. This breed has been featured in movies and television shows as well.

4. Bull Terriers Have Some of the Most Distinct Features

With their uniquely shaped face, Bull Terriers stand out in a crowd. Their long faces are slightly egg-shaped and slope into a blunt muzzle. They are also the only breed that is registered with triangle-shaped eyes.

5. They Can be Hard of Hearing

Just like other breeds with piebald coats, Bull Terriers are more prone to be hard of hearing. Some breeders believed they could breed this trait out of their dogs, but because some breeders continued to use deaf Bull Terriers, that was not the case.

Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. For Bull Terrier puppies, ask the breeder about the parents and if any hearing tests have been done.

6. Bull Terriers Also Come in Miniature Size

Even though Bull Terriers are not large dogs, there is a smaller version of Bull Terriers. The Miniature Bull Terrier is technically a different breed. These smaller Bull Terriers only grow up to 14 inches in height while their counterparts can reach 21 inches. Miniature Bull Terriers are also meant to be more hypoallergenic and shed far less than the larger breed.

7. Bull Terriers Make Good Family Pets

Although Bull Terriers can be stubborn and mischievous at times and still have a protective instinct, they make great family pets. They get along well with children and tend to have a playful, comical personality.

A Bull Terrier that has been properly socialized tends to get along well with other dogs and animals. They can have a high prey drive, so they will likely need some extra socialization and training with smaller pets in the household.

8. They May Need Puppy Training Classes

A Bull Terrier is an intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly. In this way, they are highly trainable. However, they can also be stubborn and independent. Often, they are more interested in having fun. If you keep training consistent, positive, fun, and interesting for them, they tend to excel.

But, this can be difficult for first-time or novice dog owners. As such, puppy training classes are recommended. These classes tend to be a good idea even if you don’t need them. Not only do they help you gain training skills to use at home and strengthen your bond with your puppy, but they also offer opportunities to socialize a puppy.

9. They Are Energetic, But Not High-Energy

Although Bull Terriers are energetic dogs that are likely to be up for more activity if you are, they are not a high-energy dog breed. They tend to have more moderate exercise requirements. Daily walks plus some extra activity are usually enough for this dog breed.

But, they are happy being with you and will be more than happy to do more if it means they get to spend more time with you. Being active while spending time with you is a bonus. These dogs tend to be sturdy and athletic, so don’t be afraid to try a bunch of different activities once puppies finish growing.

These are just a few facts about Bull Terriers. If this sounds like the right dog breed for you, learn more about them, and then check out the available Bull Terrier puppies. You could end up finding your new furry best friend!