History

Smart, cheerful, fearless, and typically referred to as a clown, the Miniature Bull Terrier is basically a smaller version of the standard Bull Terrier. In fact, the "mini bull" is a great dog for those who admire the standard "bully" but, for whatever reason, can't handle the size (typically up to 80 pounds) and dominance of the larger breed. The mini has been around almost as long as the standard Bull Terrier (that is, since the late 1800's); it was created by pulling smaller pups from standard bull litters and then breeding them to create a whole line of mini-sized "bullies." The smaller dogs, however, suffered from a number of faults and, due to lack of standardization, fell in and out of favor in both British and American show rings.

In the 1960's U.S. breeders imported Miniature Bull Terriers from England. Stateside fanciers gained Miscellaneous Class status from the AKC. Still, the small gene pool here continued to restrict breed improvement. It was not until greater numbers of minis were imported from both England and Australia in the early to mid 1980's that the breed began to reach the standardization required. The AKC admitted the breed to the Terrier Group in 1991.

Personality

The Miniature Bull Terrier packs a big punch for a small breed: he is strong, intelligent, and courageous, and so makes a good watchdog. (Breeders joke that a Mini Bull might let a burglar in, especially if he had a cookie, but he wouldn't get out again.) The AKC standard also calls for a dog that is "amenable to discipline" and of "even temperament," but these dogs can be hard to train because they don't see the point of repetitive tasks. Toys, hikes, obedience training, agility work, therapy work, and ball play all help keep the active mini bull busy, happy, and out of trouble, but crate training is still essential for times when you're not around to supervise. Miniature Bull Terriers, like their standard cousins, are also known for "bully runs," when they suddenly sit up, tuck their tails, and take off across the room or yard at a full gallop. This is entertaining to watch, but, fortunately for those who prefer a more peaceful environment, usually only last a minute or so. Above all, breeders note, the mini bull is a great lover of humans and a clownish soul, who mostly wants to spend time-and fool around with-his humans.

Any handler of a Miniature Bull Terrier needs to be capable of taking a leadership role, as the dog is prone to challenging authority, especially as an adolescent. Care must also be taken with a mini bull if you have other pets. Due to the standard Bull Terrier's history as a fighting and hunting dog, mini bulls can be aggressive.

Care and Exercise

Easy, minimal grooming is necessary for Miniature Bull Terriers. Brush with a firm bristle brush, bathe or dry shampoo when necessary. Bull Terriers need plenty of exercise, and should be kept on a leash.