Month: July 2023

Bull Terriers are energetic and charismatic dogs that have a unique charm that captivates dog lovers worldwide. Whether you’re a proud Bull Terrier owner or simply curious about this breed, get ready to be amazed by some intriguing facts that you probably didn’t know. From their historical origins to their distinctive physical features, we’ll explore the many reasons why Bull Terriers are truly one-of-a-kind. Discover their surprising talents, their playful nature, and the remarkable impact they’ve had on popular culture in this article.

The 9 Bull Terrier Facts

1. They Have an Interesting Origin

Bull Terriers have a rich and fascinating history that dates back to 19th century England. Originally bred for dog fighting, they were a result of crossing bulldogs with various terrier breeds. The breed’s creator, James Hinks, aimed to develop a dog with a distinctive appearance and a courageous spirit. Over time, they transitioned from their fighting origins to become beloved companions and show dogs.

During the early years of their development, Hinks actually selectively bred dogs for their unique egg-shaped head and triangular eyes. This distinct head shape soon became a defining characteristic of the breed. Today, Bull Terriers can be found in two varieties–the standard Bull Terrier and the Miniature Bull Terrier. Both share the same sort of feisty personality and playful nature, but the Miniature Bull Terrier is a bit smaller in size.

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2. They Have a Distinctive Muzzle

One of the most striking features of Bull Terriers is their distinctive head shape. Their egg-shaped heads are broad and muscular, with a well-defined stop and a strong jaw. Their triangular eyes, often referred to as “piggy eyes,” are small and deeply set (and fairly wide set), giving them a mischievous and alert expression. Their ears are naturally erect and can be straight or slightly bent forward.

Bull Terriers have a muscular and athletic build. Their bodies are well-balanced, and their chests are broad and deep. They have a short, dense coat that comes in a variety of colors, including white, brindle, black, and fawn. Their coat is easy to maintain, requiring only regular brushing to keep it looking neat and healthy.

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3. They’re Known for Being High Energy Dogs

Bull Terriers are known for their playful and mischievous nature. They have an abundance of energy and love to engage in physical activities. Despite their small size, they’re incredibly strong (like most bulldogs) and can be quite stubborn at times. However, with proper training and socialization, they can become well-behaved and affectionate family pets.

These dogs are highly intelligent, and they’ll require mental stimulation to prevent boredom. They thrive on human companionship and are known for their loyalty and devotion to their families. Bull Terriers are also great with children, although their exuberance and energy levels may require supervision during playtime. With their outgoing and friendly personalities (and proper training/socialization), they can get along well with other dogs and even cats if introduced properly.

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4. They’ve Earned a Spot in Pop Culture

These medium-size dogs have also made their mark in popular culture, appearing in movies, TV shows, and books. One of the most famous Bull Terriers is Spuds MacKenzie, the iconic party animal and mascot of Bud Light beer. Spuds MacKenzie became a cultural phenomenon in the 1980s and 1990s, showcasing the fun-loving and playful nature of Bull Terriers.

They’ve also been featured in various books, often portrayed as loyal and courageous companions. Some notable examples include “The Incredible Journey” by Sheila Burnford, which follows the adventures of a Bull Terrier named Bodger, and “Buster: The Dog Who Saved a Thousand Lives”, which is a rather a heartwarming true story about a Bull Terrier that became a search and rescue dog.

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5. They’re Prone to Deafness

One of the most common concerns is hereditary deafness, which affects a significant number of white Bull Terriers. This is a genetic condition that affects a significant number of individuals within the breed. While not all Bull Terriers will develop deafness, it’s important for breeders and owners to be aware of this potential health issue. Deafness in these dogs can occur in one or both ears and can range from partial to complete hearing loss.

The condition is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic factors, including a specific gene mutation that is more common in Bull Terriers. This genetic predisposition means that deafness can be passed down from parents to offspring, making it crucial for breeders to carefully select mating pairs to reduce the risk of producing deaf puppies. The deafness that affects Bull Terriers can have a significant impact on their quality of life. Dogs that are completely deaf may have difficulty responding to verbal commands and may be more prone to accidents or getting lost.

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6. Bull Terriers Are Often Misunderstood

Despite their lovable nature, Bull Terriers have often been misunderstood and labeled as aggressive or dangerous dogs. This misconception stems from their historical association with dog fighting, which has unfairly tarnished their reputation. In reality, they can be friendly, affectionate, and highly trainable when raised in a loving and caring environment.

But it’s important to remember that individual temperament and behavior can vary among dogs, regardless of breed. Proper socialization, training, and responsible ownership play a crucial role in shaping a dog’s personality and behavior. By providing a Bull Terrier with a loving and nurturing home, you can help dispel the myths surrounding this wonderful breed.

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7. They Eat Almost as Much as Humans

On average, an adult Bull Terrier weighs around 50–60 pounds and needs approximately 900–1,200 calories per day. This is due to their high level of physical activity. But when it comes to determining the daily calorie needs of a Bull Terrier, several factors need to be taken into consideration. These include the dog’s age, weight, activity level, and overall health. For example, puppies and younger dogs may require more calories to support their growth and development, while older dogs with lower activity levels may need fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight.

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8. They’re Awesome Swimmers

Despite their muscular build and stocky physique, Bull Terriers are actually excellent swimmers. Contrary to popular belief, their unique body shape does not hinder their ability to swim. In fact, their strong legs and broad chest make them powerful swimmers. Their short coat also helps to reduce drag in the water, allowing them to move efficiently. Additionally, these medium-sized Terriers have a natural affinity for water and are known to enjoy swimming. This breed’s love for water can be traced back to their ancestors, who were originally bred as working dogs to help fishermen retrieve nets and tackle from the water. But remember each dog is different. And while some individual Bull Terriers enjoy swimming, some may not enjoy it so much.

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9. Their Bite Force Is Beyond Strong

Bull Terriers are known for having a bite force of at least 230 PSI, due to their Pit Bull heritage. This breed has a strong build and muscular jaw structure, which enables them to exert a great amount of force when biting down. Bull Terriers were originally bred for bull-baiting, a sport that required them to immobilize and hold onto large, aggressive animals.

This history of selective breeding for strength and tenacity has likely contributed to the Bull Terrier’s strong bite. Note that bite strength can vary among individual dogs within the breed, as factors such as size, health, and training can influence bite force. It’s always essential for owners to provide proper training and socialization to their Bull Terriers to ensure they have good bite inhibition and are not prone to aggression.

FAQs About Bull Terriers

Are Bull Terriers prone to atopy issues?

Bull Terriers are a breed of dog that is known to be prone to atopy. Atopy is a type of allergic skin disease that can cause itching, redness, and inflammation. It’s believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Bull Terriers have a higher risk of developing atopy compared to other breeds, which may be due to their genetic predisposition. This breed is known for having sensitive skin, which can make them more susceptible to developing allergies. Additionally, Bull Terriers are often exposed to various environmental triggers such as pollen, dust mites, and certain foods, which can actually exacerbate their atopic condition even more.

Do Bull Terriers get along with cats?

Bull Terriers are known for their strong and energetic nature, which can sometimes make it challenging for them to get along with other animals, including cats. However, whether a Bull Terrier can get along with a cat largely depends on their individual personality and early socialization experiences. Some Bull Terriers may naturally have a higher prey drive, which can make them more prone to chasing or even potentially harming cats–so be sure to watch for this. On the other hand, there are cases where Bull Terriers have formed strong bonds with cats and coexist peacefully. The best thing to do is a slow, watchful, and limited interaction until the pets get used to each other. But until this happens, it may be better to ensure that they have their own spaces in the home–especially if the Terrier isn’t a pup.

Why does my Bull Terrier like playing tug of war?

Bull Terriers are known for their strong and determined nature, which makes them highly enthusiastic about playing tug of war. This breed was originally bred for hunting and later became popular in dog fighting. Due to their history, Bull Terriers have a natural instinct to grab and hold onto things, which is why they enjoy playing this game–many canines are like this, but Pit Bulls are bred for this specifically. By engaging in tug of war, they are able to channel their energy and fulfill their natural desire to bite and hold onto objects.

Playing tug of war also provides mental and physical stimulation for Bull Terriers. It allows them to use their intelligence and problem-solving skills to strategize and win the game. This activity actually even helps to keep their minds sharp and prevents boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior. So, the next time your pup wants to pull on a rope with you, have at it.

How do I prevent my Bull Terrier from becoming aggressive?

While some Bull Terriers may have a predisposition to aggression due to genetics or past experiences, there are steps that can be taken to minimize the risk. Prevention actually starts with providing proper socialization from a young age. Exposing the Bull Terrier to different environments, people, and animals can help them become more comfortable and less likely to exhibit aggressive behavior. Additionally, consistent and positive reinforcement training is crucial.

Teaching everyday obedience commands such as “sit” and “leave it” can help establish boundaries and reinforce good behavior. It’s also important to ensure that the Bull Terrier receives plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Regular physical activity can help reduce built-up energy that may contribute to aggressive tendencies. And lastly, seeking the assistance of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist may be beneficial in addressing any aggression issues that may arise during early adulthood.

Can Bull Terriers be sporting dogs?

Yes, one of the defining characteristics of Bull Terriers is their athleticism and energy. They’re a medium-sized breed with a muscular build, which makes them well-suited for various sporting activities. Their strong legs and agile bodies enable them to excel in activities such as agility courses, flyball, and even dock diving. Their natural athleticism combined with their high energy levels make them a perfect fit for these types of sports. Also, Bull Terriers are known for their intelligence and eagerness to please their owners. This makes them highly trainable and adaptable to different sporting disciplines. With consistent and effective training methods, they can learn complex commands and excel in activities that require focus, obedience, and precision.

Do Bull Terriers make good support dogs?

They actually can. Bull Terriers have gained a bit of a reputation as strong and fearless dogs (due to their Pit Bull lineage), but they also possess qualities that make them excellent support dogs. These dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature, which are all important traits for a support dog, mind you. Their loyalty means that they are devoted to their owners and will go above and beyond to provide support and comfort. Their intelligence allows them to quickly learn and understand tasks or commands that are necessary for supporting their owners. Additionally, their affectionate nature means that they thrive on human companionship and are always eager to provide comfort and emotional support.

Wrapping Things Up

Bull Terriers are truly unique and fascinating dogs. Their historical origins, distinctive physical features, and playful personalities make them stand out from the crowd. Despite their mischievous nature, they’re super loyal, affectionate, and great with families, including children.

If you’re considering adding a Bull Terrier to your family, be prepared for an energetic and entertaining companion that will keep you on your toes. With proper training, socialization, and care, these dogs can bring endless joy and laughter to your home life.

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Featured Image Credit: dudonyrud, Shutterstock

The post 9 Fun & Interesting Bull Terrier Facts appeared first on Pet Keen.

It’s hard to believe that there was a time when this dog was facing extinction, given it’s one of those breeds that caters to almost every family need. The Newfoundland dog is not only big and strong but also loyal to the core.

Today’s article will focus on the upside as well as the downside of owning this dog. And to answer your questions, we’ll be discussing their grooming needs, likability among kids, relationship with other pets, feeding habits, health concerns, and more importantly, their personality traits.

If you’ve been planning to adopt a Newfoundland in the future, you might want to grab a seat. Some of the things that you’ll learn here may help you make a decision.

The 14 Pros & Cons of Owning a Newfoundland Dog

The Pros

1. Newfies Don’t Mind Spending Most of Their Time Indoors

Ordinary dogs love spending time outdoors. The urge to explore the world while roaming freely is something that’s embedded in their DNA, as it stimulates them physically and mentally. But the Newfie is no ordinary breed.

Even though they love being part of various outdoor activities, given the option, they would rather spend time with you at home. Of course, getting them outdoors for exercise is vital—and they’ll love every second of it.

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2. They Don’t Howl or Bark Much

Dogs usually communicate using different sounds. If you hear them howl, they are probably bored, trying to get your attention, or just announcing their presence in the room. We’ve also heard some howl to imitate high-pitched sounds in their vicinity, such as musical instruments and sirens.

Barking is mostly associated with fear, but we’re guessing you already knew that. The point is that Newfies rarely howl or bark. You’ll never get complaints from neighbors, or not be able to sleep because they won’t keep quiet. If your Newfie is unusually vocal, there is likely an issue at hand.

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3. Newfies Don’t Require Much Exercise

Physical exercise is just as beneficial to dogs as it is to us. If you keep them disengaged from any physical activity for too long, the probability of health issues will exponentially grow. They would also experience muscle atrophy and a decrease in their bone density.

Lucky for you, you don’t have to spend more than an hour per day exercising your Newfie. They only require 30 to 40 minutes at most, to stay in shape. Some breeds demand more hours, seeing as they were initially bred to work.

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4. They Are Adaptable

By definition, adaptability is the inherent ability of a species to widen its capacity, to make it easier to handle varying degrees of change. Therefore, if we were to go by that logic, we’d say an adaptable breed is a dog that’s willing to alter its behavioral traits to fit a situation, rather than try to change the situation.

This might not be something that you think about while scouting for a suitable family pet, but it’s important. And the Newfie ticks this box by being an extremely adaptable pooch.

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5. Newfies Are Loyal

Most dogs are extremely loyal to their family. However, what makes the Newfie different in this aspect is the degree of loyalty that it has. They are so loyal that they are willing to risk their own lives, just to save yours.

There are stories of them jumping into rough sea waters—putting their own lives in jeopardy—just to save their drowning companions.

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6. They Are Protective

Once that bond has been forged, there’s little that can break it. This dog is a fearless protector that comes with incredible stamina and a massive bone structure. These dogs are certainly not aggressive, but they’ll do all they can to protect their family.

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7. They Are Easy to Train

The Newfie ranks on the higher percentile of an intelligence scale and is easy to train. That being said, seeing as we’re talking about a gigantic breed, you have to sign them up for an obedience class while they’re still young. Moreover, for the training to be effective, you have to incorporate positive reinforcement techniques.

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8. Newfies Love Kids

Despite its massive size, this dog is tender-hearted. It’s also very patient and tolerant. These traits are the reason why they are popular among kids, especially those who are still too young to know better.

But you still have to teach your kids to respect their personal spaces and how to treat them right. Leaving them alone for extended periods of time is also discouraged, as this is a giant dog.

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9. They Are Affectionate

People often assume these dogs are aggressive and ill-tempered, given their strong build. Only to learn after spending time with them that they are actually gentle, bubbly, and one of the most affectionate dogs around. If you’re in the market searching for a large cuddly bear, you’ve certainly found your perfect match.

The Cons of Owning a Newfoundland

10. They Have a Short Lifespan

Newfies don’t really have a long lifespan—up to 10 years in most cases. But this doesn’t come as a surprise, given most large breeds don’t live as long as the tiny pooches. We feel like this is a prime disadvantage, as nobody would wish to adopt a Newfie that’s already grown, having this information. If you’d like to prolong your companion’s life, get them the best food, always take them to the vet for regular checkups, and improve their living conditions.

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11. Newfies Are Sometimes Destructive and Stubborn

This sort of behavior is preventable. If your training regimen was effective, and they were introduced to it from an early age, you have nothing to worry about. Their destructive nature typically hinges on their upbringing.

You must make sure that they are always getting their daily doses of physical and mental stimulation—boredom and separation anxiety are both considered primary triggers of destructive behavior.

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12. Newfies Have a Huge Appetite

You need to stock up your pantry as though you’re prepping for a cataclysmic event if you own a Newfie. Or else, you’ll be forced to make endless trips to the store! This breed is not as athletic as a hound, but due to its massive size, it burns through calories fast. Just don’t overfeed them, as that could lead to obesity.

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13. These Dogs Are Large!

While you may know this already, Newfies are large! Let’s put it this way; a Newfie is not the kind of breed that you’ll feel comfortable with around a toddler, unsupervised. Believe it or not, they weigh more than an average adult and take up lots of space. Before bringing one of these giants home, it’s important to know what you’re getting into.

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14. They Drool Excessively

In comparison to other breeds, the Newfie breed probably has the worst drooling habit. At first, it’s cute and all. But with time, they’ll drool all over your carpets, couch, bed, chairs, etc.  Most of them start drooling after 12 months, so just be glad you won’t have to deal with drool pools before then.

Conclusion

These dogs are always calm, tender-hearted, intelligent, protective, loyal, and adaptable. But they can also be stubborn and hostile at times, especially if they aren’t socialized. Drooling is also a major concern among potential parents, as they are normally born with loose lips that can’t hold saliva.

Newfies do love spending time with kids, but their massive size makes them a potential hazard.

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Featured Image Credit: Pandas, Shutterstock

The post 14 Newfoundland Dog Pros & Cons to Know Before You Get One appeared first on Pet Keen.