Bull Terrier: Breeder selection and lines
When choosing a Bull Terrier, verify the named records and the issuing scheme before relying on a breeder's description. Treat the record as background information, not proof of how this individual dog will respond. Ask for named tests, dates, scheme or laboratory, parent identity, and the written result; compare the record with the intended home routine. Verify the document with the issuing scheme or laboratory before treating it as evidence for a decision.
What to verify before choosing
Bull Terrier's recommended parent-club health tests is recorded as ['Patella Evaluation', 'Cardiac Exam', 'BAER Testing', 'Kidney - Urine Protein:Creatinine Ratio']. Here, that matters because it identifies a record to verify, not a diagnosis of the dog in front of you.
Read the record, not the promise
- Ask for named tests, dates, scheme or laboratory, parent identity, and the written result; compare the record with the intended home routine.
- Keep the recommended parent-club health tests in view (['Patella Evaluation', 'Cardiac Exam', 'BAER Testing', 'Kidney - Urine Protein:Creatinine Ratio']) and make the next step reversible, observable, and easy to stop.
- Verify the document with the issuing scheme or laboratory before treating it as evidence for a decision.
Walk away or pause if
Do not proceed on verbal assurances when required records are missing, unverifiable, or inconsistent.
References
Height: 21-22 inches
AKC page PageMap DataObject > height
Weight: 50-70 pounds
AKC page PageMap DataObject > weight
Life expectancy: 12-13 years
AKC page PageMap DataObject > life_expectancy
Grooming: The Bull Terrier's short, flat, harsh, and glossy coat requires minimal maintenance. A weekly brushing with a soft-bristle brush or a hound glove will help to remove dirt and loose hair and keep the dog looking his best. The ears should be regularly inspected and cleaned if needed. The nails should be trimmed often, as overly long nails can cause the…
AKC page Grooming > official section copy
Exercise: Bull Terriers benefit from daily, moderate exercise that provides good mental and physical stimulation, such as nice, long walks with the family. The breed was developed for sport as well as to be a gentleman's companion and possesses great strength and agility. Participation in canine sports such as obedience, tracking, agility, and coursing ability tests…
AKC page Exercise > official section copy
Training: Owners should remember that the breed exhibits the tenacity and courage of the Bulldog but is also a member of the Terrier Group. This is an independent free-thinker with a higher commitment to 'fun and games' than to a work ethic. Bull Terriers operate on the principle that if it is fun, they will do it. If not, why bother? Make training fun, and they will…
AKC page Training > official section copy
Official breed description: Among the most comical and mischievous citizens of dogdom, the Bull Terrier is playful and endearing, sometimes stubborn, but always devoted. These unique 'eggheads' are exuberant, muscular companions who thrive on affection and exercise.
AKC page About the Breed > official breed description
Recommended parent-club health tests: ['Patella Evaluation', 'Cardiac Exam', 'BAER Testing', 'Kidney - Urine Protein:Creatinine Ratio']
AKC page Health > Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club
Official breed standard: http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/BullTerrier.pdf
AKC page The Breed Standard > View Full Breed Standard
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