English Bull Terrier

Like every breed, the English Bull Terrier is not the right fit for every home. Based on the breed’s typical traits:

• Use positive, reward-based training from day one.
• Socialise them early and well, especially with other dogs.
• Work on a strong recall and a reliable "drop".
• Teach good manners on a lead and harness.
• Keep training motivating and fun, with patience and a sense of humour.

• Children

  Usually better with older, calmer children.

• Other dogs

  Can be selective about other dogs.

• Cats and small pets

  Often has a strong instinct to chase small animals.

• Flats and smaller homes

  Usually happier in a house.

• Garden

  A secure garden is strongly advised.

• Being left alone

  Usually copes only with short periods alone.

• First-time owners

  Best with an experienced owner.

Not yet reviewed by a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice: speak to your vet about your own dog’s health.

• Deafness

  Deafness is the most common health problem in the breed, most often in white dogs. The Royal Kennel Club recommends hearing testing under the KC BAER Scheme, including litter screening.

• Lethal acrodermatitis

  An inherited disease affecting only white Bull Terriers, causing fatal skin and growth problems. A DNA test can identify carriers.

• Kidney disease

  Kidney problems, including polycystic kidney disease, are seen in the breed. Urine tests can screen parents.

• Heart problems

  Heart valve problems, including mitral dysplasia, occur. Heart scans can screen parents.

• Lens luxation

  The lens moves out of its normal position in the eye, which can be painful and cause loss of vision.

• Patellar luxation

  The kneecaps slip temporarily out of place. Parents can be checked by a vet before breeding.

• Atopy

  Allergies that cause itchy skin and ear infections.

Responsible breeders and rescues are happy to talk about health, and any pressure to decide quickly is a reason to walk away. Before taking a English Bull Terrier home, it is reasonable to ask about:

• Health testing of the parents. Ask which health tests the parents have had for conditions known in the breed, and to see the results.
• Veterinary and vaccination records. Puppies should have had a first vaccination and a vet check, with records you can take home.
• Microchip information. In England, Scotland and Wales puppies must be microchipped and registered by eight weeks old. Ask who the chip is registered to and how the transfer works.
• Registration paperwork. Registration papers, where they apply, record pedigree. They do not by themselves prove health or how a puppy was raised.

There are two costs: bringing a English Bull Terrier home, and looking after one well. Puppy prices depend on the breeder, health testing and demand; the adverts below show what sellers are asking today.

Ongoing costs are the ones new owners most often underestimate: food, insurance (which usually rises with age), routine vet care, vaccinations and parasite treatment, dental care, grooming, training, bedding and equipment, and boarding or a sitter for holidays. Budget for the whole of the dog’s life, typically from 10 years, not just the first year.

If you have decided the English Bull Terrier suits your life, take the same care choosing where your dog comes from. Meet the puppy in person, see it with its mother, and look at how the litter is raised.

• Check who you are dealing with: every Mypetzilla advert shows the seller type and what we have checked.
• Ask about health testing, vaccinations and the microchip before you commit.
• Take your time. Do not be rushed by deposits or "last one left" stories.
• Meet in person before paying anything, and keep conversations on Mypetzilla.

English Bull Terriers do come up for adoption, through rescue organisations, breed rescues and private rehoming, often because an owner’s circumstances have changed rather than any fault of the dog. An adult dog arrives as a known quantity: its size, coat and character are already on show.

Rescues will usually talk you through the dog’s history, any medical care, and the home it needs, including children, other animals and time alone. Be honest about your circumstances: a good rescue would rather place a dog once, well.