Are they really powerful?

They're much stronger than they look.

Their moderate size is deceptive. If careful groundwork of proper training and socialization isn't laid down, a Bull Terrier can be a lot more dog than the average family is equipped to deal with!

Do they need a lot of Exercise?

Some Bullies are extreme couch potatoes but others have an exceptionally high energy level.

In general BTs need at least two long, brisk walks a day or several extended play periods. They are extremely good at “mind” games like hide the ball or visual slight of hand games and these often entertain them when the weather is cold and they really don’t want to go for long walks. They also love to curl up for hours with any family member. But someone in the household must be responsible for providing the daily exercise they crave. They are very inventive and will find games to play themselves if not provided with more structured ones. Their own games may include “Turn the couch inside out” “Eat the shoes” etc. etc. (you get the picture). They are usually very outgoing and keen to learn new games. They love fetch, Frisbee, trampolines, soccer etc. etc.

Are they hard to train?

They are stubborn and independent but very bright and easy to train IF you are as committed to their training as you expect them to be.

Bullies do well at obedience and agility trials. Bull Terriers are so headstrong and dedicated to getting their own way, that they seem to respect strict standards and clearly established rules – that is after you convince them that it is what you expect but really what they want to do. To quote an expert:

"You should be prepared for anything and you must supervise them! They are extremely affectionate and can make you think you are the only one that really matters... but [actually] they live to please themselves. They will strive to please their owners when it benefits them. They have minds of their own and feel it is their place to run the household. They know how to get what they want and will go to great lengths to do so. Spanking accomplishes nothing, as they know no pain... tell them how BAD they've been and their ears go back, their tails wag frantically, they crouch down in a submissive position and beg to be forgiven... be prepared... ten minutes later they'll be right back doing whatever it was that got them in trouble in the first place!"

Even the most perfectly schooled Bull Terriers are unreliable off leash. They are easily distracted because they do so enjoy life and want to experience all of it in the shortest amount of time possible. They can dash off after a squirrel or a leaf blowing in the wind and when they have finally lift their head to see where they are, they could be miles away and lost. One of our boys once took off after a leaf and we found him two hours later sitting in an alleyway in the barn just starring at the pigs (I’ sure he must have thought they looked familiar!!).

They are also very easily “dog-napped” because they will go with anyone and everyone whether the person is in a car, on foot or on a bike. These dogs just love people!! I have yet to meet a Bull Terrier who didn’t like people.

Do they make good watchdogs?

Generally speaking, if by watchdog you mean watch strangers come and go from your house carrying all of your possessions then, Yes. But if you mean Guard dog then No not particularly good ones. While some BTs may bark to notify you when a stranger enters the house, most would rather make friends with the stranger than protect your valuables.

Do they get along with other dogs?

That depends.

An unaltered male probably will not live peacefully with another unaltered male so I would certainly not recommend you try this combination. An altered male will usually live peacefully with other dogs regardless of gender but it does depend on the dog. A male and a female usually get along quite well regardless of whether or not the male has been neutered. 2 females will also usually cohabitate quite nicely together. And, they do quite well with other breeds regardless of the other’s size. While you can control these variables in your home situation, you can’t always control them if your dog is at an off leash park or is left unsupervised. So, be a responsible owner and have your dog neutered so you reduce the chance of these meetings. Then, socialize, socialize and socialize your dog before you honestly evaluate your dog and know if he/she can be trusted. Generally speaking, BTs do get along very well with other dogs – dogs known to them or complete strangers. Titus always says “A stranger is just a friend I haven’t won over yet!”

Do they get along with other pets?

Usually.

If it is a puppy you are introducing to a family with a cat in the house, generally speaking the cat with have more difficulty with the Bully that the BT will with the cat. However, some BTs are extremely prey driven and may always look at the cat like it is a walking dinner (remember the TV show Alf?). If a cat lives in the house and you are sure you want a BT, I would recommend discussing with the breeder your requirements so that they can try to match you with less “prey driven” parents or possibly considering an adult BT who has been raised with cats.

Are they reliable with children?

While BTs are very reliable with children, NEVER EVER leave any dog unattended with a child!

BT puppies should always be socialized to young children and other dogs whether or not you have children or other dogs in your home.

What are their grooming requirements?

Pretty minimal.

BTs are pretty “wash and wear”. They shed twice a year so at those times you will want to give them a daily rub with a slicker brush but for the rest of the year a weekly rub down usually suffices. Nails – they do need their nails kept well trimmed so that their toes don’t “spread”. If you get the puppy used to having his/her feet handled, they usually don’t mind this chore. Ears should be kept cleaned out with ear cleaning pads (never Q-tips) and usually once a week is lots to keep them fresh. BTs probably don’t need a weekly bath but it will depend on how dirty they like to get.

Should I crate train?

YES!! It really is a necessity and not a choice.

It is not to be used as a punishment but as a safe haven for your Bully. It is the safest place for your puppy to be when you are not with him/her. They will also come to know the crate as their “den” so this is their spot to get away from you when they feel the need – like when you have scolded them (they really are pouters.)