Miniature Bull Terrier


COUNTRY: Great Britain
WEIGHT: 10-40 pounds
HEIGHT: 10-14 inches
COAT: Short, harsh
COLOR: Solid white; white with head markings; brindle, red, fawn, black/tan, black brindle, with or without white markings in the Irish pattern
GROUP: Mastif

Good things come in small packages, and the Miniature Bull Terrier is all the fire and clowning of its larger version seen through the reverse side of a magnifying glass. Bred to aid their larger brothers in ratting duties, they were a great favorite of those who preferred a smaller, more manageable house pet. At one time, Bull Terriers ranged from as tiny as three pounds to a macho 30-plus. The Toy variety, under ten pounds, suffered the problems often seen in extreme miniaturization and has disappeared, but the Mini is picking up fans daily.

In 1938, Englishman Colonel Glyn founded the Miniature Bull Terrier Club, and the Minis were eligible for challenge certificates shortly after. Although they were shown in the United States early in the 1900s, they reached a lull and have only recently (1963) begun showing in the Miscellaneous Class again. The CKC also includes them in that class, while they merit full FCI recognition.


They adore their owners and are excellent playmates for children, as well as being good alarm dogs. Breeders warn owners to be careful not to leave precious or dangerous objects lying around, since the Mini thinks any object within his reach is fair game for lunch. Puppies are "energized" and can be destructive if left alone.

Strong and solid, the Minis can pull owners on skateboards or cross-country skis! They're adaptable to any lifestyle, from active to sedate, from large families with children to a single person or an elderly couple. These dogs enjoy being the center of attention, and will put up with a great amount of "foolishness" from children, including being dressed in doll clothes. All of this is often accompanied by a "Bully" smile.

This "pocket edition" of the Bull Terrier is even-tempered, but requires a controlling hand. Owners note that physical care is a breeze.

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