Profile of the Miniature Bull Terrier
by George Jones

     The Miniature Bull Terrier  has the same temperament as the full size Bull Terrier.  One of the differences between the two sizes of Bull Terrier is that  the Miniature Bullie needs to occasionally assert itself, just like other small dogs.  Despite their small size the Mini Bullies are not lap dogs, no more so than the full size Bull Terrier.
     Miniature Bull Terriers are friendly and are known for having a sense of humor. Owning a Bullie requires that the owner also have a fine sense of humor.  Adding a Bull Terrier to the family, whether it is a full size Bullie or a miniature, is likened to adding a two year old child.  These dogs have a high activity level, they are smart and creative, indeed they are independent thinkers.  This breed possesses a wonderful combination of traits: they are confident, courageous, good natured, and their devotion to their owner is unfaltering.  This breed craves human companionship, and absolutely hates being left alone for any long period of time.  The life span of this breed of dog averages between 12 to 15 years.
     A rewards based training program produces the best results with this breed.  Physical correction will not be tolerated nor forgiven by this dog.  This breed has a dominant nature, therefore, an inexperienced trainer, or novice, may have difficulty controlling this dog.  This is why when this breed is a puppy, socialization and basic training are very important for the future good manners of the dog.  It is also very important to teach children not to ever tease or torment dogs.  This breed will seriously resent it.
     In the show ring, there is a height limit of 14 inches to the withers for the Miniature Bull Terrier.  It is required that the dog be strongly built and is muscular. Its weight should be in proportion to its size.  In most countries, including Britain, all colors and whites are shown together in the ring.  In the U.S., under A.K.C. rules, the coloreds and the pure whites are shown as separate breeds, even if the dogs were born in the same litter. The Miniature is shown as a separate breed from the full size.
     The coat color and texture of the Miniature Bull Terrier is exactly like the full sized Bull Terrier. There are a number of coat colors that a Bull Terrier may display, but for show dogs the blue and liver colors are highly undesirable.
     Temperament and the soundness of the dog's body are of equal importance.  A product of a puppy mill will not be socialized sufficiently, and may have medical problems.  People who run puppy mills do not care about the breed of dog and the soundness of the genetics involved.  They care for the money only.  A concerned and responsible breeder will let you see the mother and father, they will certify the dog for soundness of health.  A professional breeder will be associated with area clubs. The potential new owner can contact these clubs for references.  And a professional breeder will have a contract with you, that if there are problems, the breeder can and will take the dog back if necessary.
     Temperament is hereditary, and should be a source of concern for any owner and/or breeder.  When a bad tempered dog is bred to a bad tempered female, the get will be bad tempered.  Unfortunately, good pups, if placed in a problematic family situation, can also develop temperament problems.  So temperament in any dog can be genetic or it can be environmental.  The Bullie can be a happy, outgoing, extroverted dog.  The well bred Bullie is great with kids (as long as they don't tease, poke or torment).


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