It’s Bull Terrier Day!

Today, April 1st, we celebrate a rare and lovely dog: the Bull Terrier. This loyal, sociable, and always amusing dog has been around for nearly 200 years! In this post, a veterinarian from Springdale ON will shine the spotlight on Fido.

Where Did The Bull Terrier Originate From?

James Hinks created the breed in England in the early 1800s by crossing bull and terrier dogs with the English White terrier, which is now extinct. Fido’s family tree eventually expanded to include the Spanish Pointer, the white English Terrier, and the Dalmatian. Breeders also gave Fido the unique egg-shaped head that is today the breed’s most defining feature.

Fido’s forefathers, bull and terrier dogs, were bred to hunt vermin and were widely utilized in blood sports. In fact, the Bull Terrier was sometimes known as the “canine gladiator.” (We are happy to report that dog fighting was prohibited in England in 1835.)

Are Bull Terriers Popular Dogs?

Fido is now placed 61st on the AKC breed popularity list. So, he’s not exactly the most popular dog in town these days. However, the breed does have a few notable devotees. Bull Terriers have been owned by a number of celebrities, including Marc Jacobs, Taylor Swift, Kirk Hammett, Eric Clapton, Liam Gallagher, Tom Hardy, Lily Allen, Don Cherry, and Princess Anne.

Is It True That Taylor Swift Has A Bull Terrier?

Yes! If you’re a Swiftie who appreciates this stunning breed, you should know that you can buy a signed photo of the singer and her canine best friend. Be prepared to spend several hundred dollars on the souvenir, though.

Bull Terrier Dogs: What Do They Look Like?

Fido is relatively short and stocky. He normally stands between 21 and 22 inches tall, weighs up to 70 pounds, and lives for an average of 13 years. These guys are easily recognized by their unusual egg-shaped heads.

What Kind Of Personality Do Bull Terriers Have?

This is one area where the lovely puppy really shines. Bull Terriers are lots of joy to be around. For example, they often like chasing their tails. They might be stubborn at times, but they are generally cheerful and affectionate towards their people. If you’re looking for a social, lively dog who can cuddle with you and make you laugh, one of these dogs could be the perfect match.

Which Colors Are Permitted Officially for Bull Terriers?

The Bull Terrier can be completely white or any color, solid or with markings.

Fido’s approved fashion choices include black, red, fawn, white, and brindle. He can also sport white on his coat. Of course, these canines will look great whatever he chooses to wear!

Are Bull Terriers Prone To Any Health Problems?

While these dogs are normally quite robust, prospective owners should be aware of a few things. If you’re considering about getting a puppy, the AKC recommends seeking documentation that he’s been checked for heart and renal abnormalities. Fido may also be in danger of hearing loss. Congenital sensorineural deafness (CSD) affects roughly 10% of Bull Terriers.

The breed requirements provide for a patella evaluation, BAER testing, and kidney and cardiovascular examinations.

Of course, you’ll need to take your dog to the vet on a regular basis. This is a wonderful occasion to ask your Springdale ON veterinarian for specific information about your pet’s care needs. We’re always glad to address questions!

Do Bull Terriers Require Much Grooming?

Bull Terriers have short, silky coats and relatively minimal beauty care requirements. To keep Fido looking and feeling fabulous, you’ll need to brush him once a week. You’ll also need to bathe your dog regularly, wipe his ears, and cut his nails. Consult your veterinarian for particular care recommendations.

Do Bull Terriers Chase Their Tails?

Yes! This might be both cute and funny. However, it can occasionally be a sign of doggy obsessive-compulsive disorder, also known as canine-compulsive disorder (CCD). (Bull Terriers, for whatever reason, are especially vulnerable to this.) If your pet appears to be unduly obsessed with tail-chasing and/or shows other signs of discomfort, such as pacing or chasing his shadow, call your veterinarian.

Was Spud Mckenzie A Bull Terrier Dog?

He certainly was! Spuds Mckenzie, the renowned canine mascot of Bud Light beer, is probably the best-known Bull Terrier. The adorable pooch made his debut in a now-iconic 1987 Super Bowl commercial and quickly captivated America’s hearts. Spuds, known as the “original party animal,” was the top dog for a few years in the eighties. For several years, the cute puppy appeared in advertising, movies, and promotional campaigns, typically dressed in a Hawaiian shirt and sunglasses.

Here are some incredible facts about the beloved canine superstar.

• Although many people assumed Spuds was a male, the part was really played by a female terrier named Honey Tree Evil Eye, or Evie.
• Spuds returned from ‘retirement’ to star in a 2017 Super Bowl commercial as a ghost urging a man to reconnect with his friends. Spuds officially retired in 1989, and the home number depicted on the spot paid tribute to that.
• Both the lyrics and the music video for Neil Young’s song “This Note’s For You” featured the dog. MTV rejected the song because they believed it degraded Budweiser, one of their major advertisers. In the end, it won an MTV Video Music award.
• Sir Mixalot apparently wrote Baby Got Back after discovering Spuds’ entourage consisted solely of skinny chicks.
• Tone Lōc mentions Spuds in his song Funky Cold Medina.

Are There Other Celebrity Bull Terriers?

Spuds is not the only popular Bull Terrier. Target also chose one as their mascot. That cute puppy has a distinct bullseye circle drawn around his eye. (Note: non-toxic paint is always utilized.) Bullseye is the character who has served as their spokesperson for almost 20 years! Bullseye has been played by many dogs. The first one, Kingsmere Moondoggie, or “Smudgie” for short, was an AKC champion. There are presently three pups cycling through the duty. Bullseye dogs always live on a California ranch with a professional trainer.

We cannot forget about cartoon Bull Terriers! Our favorite? Zero from the Nightmare Before Christmas. (Zero was technically a ghost, but we’ll still count him.) Sparky from Frankenweenie was also a Bull Terrier. (Given that Tim Burton directed both of these films, it’s likely safe to presume that the renowned filmmaker is a Bull Terrier fan.) Finally, don’t miss Futurama’s Spuds knockoff, Slurms MacKenzie.

What Should You Know Before Getting A Bull Terrier?

A healthy puppy care regimen always starts with balanced food, regular veterinary care, and lots of love. Fido, like most dogs, needs training and socialization. To keep your canine partner happy and healthy, make sure he gets enough attention, playtime, and exercise.

We always advocate conducting extensive research before adopting a dog. Before making the commitment to adopt a dog, it’s important for you to make sure it is a suitable fit for your family and house. Ask your Springdale ON veterinarian for specific advice.

Make Your Dog An Appointment with Your Springdale ON Animal Clinic

Do you have any questions about taking care of bull terriers? Please feel free to contact us at any time. As your Springdale ON pet hospital, we are always available to assist!