If you're looking for a dog who will run and play and chase and explore with you, look no further than a Miniature Bull Terrier (or “Mini Bull,” as their fans call them). Like their full-sized cousins, Miniature Bull Terriers are clownish and mischievous, yet somehow charismatic enough to get away with their antics.
Their unusual eyes, which are triangular and close-set, give these dogs a distinctive appearance. But it's the feisty, tough-guy persona you'll notice first. A Miniature Bull Terrier struts down any street with attitude, and seems to ask every passerby, “Are you talking to me?”
Originally from England, this small-sized breed can grow to between 25-33 pounds and lives an average of 11-14 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Terrier group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | England |
| Breed group | Terrier |
| Average lifespan | 11-14 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 132 |
| Family | Terrier |
| Date of origin | 1500s |
| Original function | Vermin hunting |
| Today's function | Earthdog trials |
| Average size of male | Height: 10-14 Weight: 25-33 |
| Average size of female | Height: 10-14 Weight: 25-33 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Moderately protective |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A MINIATURE BULL TERRIER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Miniature Bull Terriers are cheerful, silly, and rambunctious. These loving dogs adore children, but they're probably best placed with older kids. For children mature and resilient enough to handle their ruff-n-tumble style, Miniature Bull Terriers make great playmates.
WHAT IS MINIATURE BULL TERRIER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This is a very active breed: no walk will ever be long enough for this dog—but try your best to keep up. They are fearless and very strong for such a small dog and will never turn down the chance for an adventure.
Miniature Bull Terriers can be wary of other dogs unless socialized early and often. Their high prey drive means they're not usually a good fit for homes with toy dogs, cats, or other small pets.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A MINIATURE BULL TERRIER?
For Mini Bulls, that tough-girl attitude isn't just an act. This is a bullheaded breed with a serious stubborn streak, so Miniature Bull Terriers aren't the easiest to train. But their strong wills are exactly what makes working with your pup so important. The Miniature Bull Terrier prey drive makes them poor candidates for off-leash play outside a well-fenced area. And we mean well fenced — these dogs will laugh their way right through underground electronics.
This busybody needs a job, so put her to work—some Mini Bulls make wonderful therapy dogs—or enroll her in earthdog trials or agility training.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO MINIATURE BULL TERRIERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
This breed's short coat is an easy keeper — just brush and bathe them as needed. They're infrequent to moderate shedders.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO MINIATURE BULL TERRIERS HAVE?
Miniature Bull Terriers are a sturdy and robust breed. Some are born with inherited hearing problems.
