The Miniature Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier (Miniature) is a breed of dog developed using selective
breeding to miniaturize the Bull Terrier. However, when the Standard
breed was first created in 19th century England, it was about the
same size as Miniature Bull Terriers. Crossbreeding with Pointers
increased the size so it was an optimal fighting size. Miniature Bull
Terriers were accepted by the American Kennel Club in 1992.
Like the
Standard Bull Terriers, Minis are loving and, like many terrier breeds,
can be stubborn at times; but despite this they make great dogs for
people with limited space.
Miniature
Bull Terriers have short, fine, and glossy coats that are very close
to the skin, like the Standards. They are accepted in the ring to
be white, white with another color, or fully colored. However, like
the Standards, any blue or liver colored coats are undesirable. These
dogs require very minimal grooming.
In the
early 1900s, the difference between the breeds was determined by the
dog's weight. However, this led to Miniature Bull Terriers becoming
so small and fine that they looked more like a Chihuahua than a Bull
Terrier. So, in the 1970s, the weight limit was replaced with a height
limit of under fourteen inches. They are usually no smaller than ten
inches. According to the AKC, miniature bull terriers weight must
be proportionate to its height. However, they tend to range anywhere
from 20 - 35 lbs.
The Miniature
Bull Terriers have a very strong build. They have very muscular shoulders
and a full body.
Miniature
Bull Terriers, like the Standards, have a head described as "egg-shaped."
It is flat on top with a Roman muzzle. The eyes are triangular and
closely set.
The ears
are carried erect and are not cropped or otherwise altered.
The tail
is carried horizontally rather than vertically.
Bull Terriers
are known to be stubborn and courageous. They don't seem to realize
their size, however, because even if confronting an enormous dog they
will not back down. However, with the right training, confrontations
can be avoided. This characteristic does not change in the Miniatures.
Some people think that Miniature Bull Terriers are practically a different
dog, but one must realize that they are the same dogs, just smaller.
They are very energetic and playful. They love people, but often don't
get along with other pets. They are variable around other dogs, and
young children must be warned to treat them carefully.
Breed Clubs and Societies
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BULL TERRIER CLUB OF WALES. Sec: Mr D Harris. Tel No: 01495 775479
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NORTH EAST BULL TERRIER CLUB. Sec. Mrs J Pilkington. Tel No: 01429 260895
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SCOTTISH BULL TERRIER CLUB. Sec. Ms A Craig. Tel No: Not available, please contact the Kennel Clu
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SOUTH EASTERN COUNTIES BULL TERRIER CLUB. Sec. Mrs F King. Tel No:01268 779368
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ULSTER BULL TERRIER CLUB. Sec. Ms G Van Eck. Tel No: 028 28 269697
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This breed of dog is a 'Vulnerable Native Breed'.
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