The first question the responsible breeder will probably ask to an inquiry from one wanting to acquire a bull terrier puppy is for what purpose does one want a bull terrier?  Is it to be a companion dog, a breeding dog, a show dog or a combination of the above?

Once this question is answered, one can begin to lead into further discussion and assessment as to the appropriateness of whether the bull terrier is the dog for you.

Is the bull terrier the puppy for me?

A well bred bull terrier puppy raised in a healthy social environment with clearly defined boundaries relating to behavior, is a fun loving, playful intelligent animal that is a joy to have in the home.

The bull terrier loves to play with other family pets, providing the puppy and the adult dog is properly supervised.  Bull terriers are in the terrier family and may demonstrate a tendency to "stand their ground" when challenged.  Because each dog's temperament is unique, individual assessment is required to know and understand the amount and type of adult supervision that will be required to preclude confrontational issues arising.

Here is one of our puppies playing with our pet pug.  The pug in this picture is the same one in the picture above, he's grown into quite a baby sitter for our newest babies!

Bull terriers are a short-haired breed and consequently, prefer the warmth of the home hearth rather than prolonged exposure to the cold wet elements.  They love to play outside on warm sunny winter days, but welcome the call to come inside the home as soon as the playing is over.  Being a short-haired breed, they are easy to care for and keep clean.

Is a male or female bull terrier right for me?  And how are they different?

As is the rule for most species, males are generally bigger and stronger than females.  Males mark their territory and females come into heat.  As to their behavior and temperament, it is an individual matter.  There are "rules of thumb" one may elude to, but as to specific facts, again, it is an individual matter.  Example:  Generally, if a female dog is already in the home, it would be better to introduce a male and vice versa.  Two of the same sex dog can sometimes become an issue.  However, many variables influence this "rule of thumb".

Here is Elmer and Pansy playing together in our field.  As a general "rule of thumb," it often is better to pair a male and a female together to avoid issues of dominance.

Bull terriers come in what colors?

Black brindle, brindle, red, black & tan with various white markings and white with various colored markings.  See selecting a puppy for examples of each color.

Do bull terriers make good protection or guard dogs?

They can, but if this is the predominate feature one is looking for in a dog, it would be recommended to look to other breeds specifically bred for this trait.

Is crate training recommended?  And what kind and size crate do I need?

Yes, crate training is highly recommended.  It is both for the health and safety of the puppy to have a place of its' own to go to when not being directly supervised.  As a member of the canine family such as foxes and wolves, it is natural for a dog to want a "den" to feel safe and secure in.  Bull terriers love to have a blanket of their own in their crate.

Crate size is based upon the requirements of a full size dog being able to comfortably stand, turn around and lie down.  A good size would be: 20" wide, 24" high and 36" deep.  Preferably made of heavy gauge wire with two sliding action security bolts.  The wire crate allows the dog to see out in all directions, and for the owner to see in.  With a hinged top, it is easy to clean out if the puppy makes a mess.  The wire crate has the feature of being collapsible, thus allowing for easy transport.  This is a desirable feature for travelers who want to take their dog on trips.  The crate gives the dog a secure and comfortable feeling having its' home no matter where it is.  The plastic models are required for airlines shipping.

Under what circumstances do I take my bull terrier to the vet?

Whenever one feels it is necessary due to a recognized medical concern.  Veterinarian science is based upon a vast and broad spectrum of learned knowledge and skill.  It is not a science, but an art.  A competent vet can and does often successfully diagnose and successfully treat their animal patients.  But as in all things in life, when attempting to assess a symptom in a seldom seen breed, in this case, a bull terrier, it is not all that unusual to misdiagnose a symptom, and potentially offer the incorrect treatment.  To optimize successful outcomes, it is wise and prudent to seek out the opinion of an experienced bull terrier breeder.  

If I have a concern or question relating to my bull terrier, who do I turn to?

There are unique issues with the bull terrier not to be found in other breeds.  Because there are so few experienced, reputable bull terrier breeders with a firm understanding of these issues, it is often difficult to find competent help in identifying, understanding, and properly resolving behavior and health concerns that may arise.  Many, if not most professional dog handlers, trainers and veterinarians often misdiagnose and often give incorrect guidance in attempting to resolve and correct basic bull terrier issues.  It is a most common practice to feel that what applies to other breeds apply to all breeds. This is just not so, regardless of the best of intentions.  To resolve unwanted behavior or health concerns, it is best to first check with your vet.  Then as a follow up, check with a competent bull terrier breeder and listen to what they may have to say on the matter.  One has nothing to loose, and you may just be able to easily resolve what could otherwise prove to be a difficult and costly process. Here at Butterfly Fields, we encourage our clients to stay in touch with us to discuss any issues that may arise with their puppy or adult dog.

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