The Bull Terrier is an intelligent dog with keen eyes and a muscular, balanced frame. The intense, long face and muscular body hide the amusing, loyal, and playful dog inside. The Brindle Bull Terrier personality is ultimately endearing.
What is a Brindle Bull Terrier?
The Bull Terrier has a unique body with a low, aggressive, and muscular stance. It has a broad chest, a short spine, and stands with an alert and regal bearing. The head is an elongated oval with a flat forehead and a distinctive long, straight muzzle.
The origins of the Bull Terrier come from a cross between the English Bulldog with the English Terrier creating a fast, strong, aggressive, and intelligent dog. Years of breeding have tempered the early aggression that gave Bull Terriers a less desirable reputation.
Today’s Bull Terrier has the following traits:
- Tender
- Intuitive
- Energetic
- Loyal
- Trainable
- Full of life and personality
It’s believed that the brindle coat was achieved by back-breeding the Bull Terrier with Brindle Staffordshire Terriers. This practice has resulted in a wide array of brindle colors.
Are Brindle Bull Terriers Purebred?
Brindle Bull Terriers are purebred. They have the genetic combinations that make it possible to achieve a brindle coat, assuming that one parent is a Brindle Bull Terrier. Though the Bull Terrier’s origins are a cross of two breeds, the consistent breeding of the Bull Terrier has branched it into a pure breed of its own.
The best way to be sure that the Brindle Bull Terrier is purebred is to obtain AKC pedigree papers from the breeder. Reputable breeders conform to American Kennel Club (AKC) breeding standards and must be able to furnish at least 5 prior generations of pedigree dogs in the Bull Terrier’s lineage.
It may be impossible to obtain paperwork when adopting a Brindle Bull Terrier or purchasing from a non-registered breeder. In this case, you can get genetic testing for the dog which will determine its breed.
Brindle Bull Terrier Colors and Coat Types
The Bull Terrier’s breeding history and popularity have resulted in a vast array of colors, many of which can be adorned with brindle striping. The two most common coat colors are white and black.
Black is an older genetic variation of the Bull Terrier, while white terriers were bred later as gentleman companion dogs.
When breeders began creating brindle variations around the year 1900, both black and white coated Bull Terriers were bred for this unique striped pattern. The resulting dogs have many brindle pattern variations.
The AKC recognizes 6 types of brindle coats for the Bull Terrier:
- Black brindle: A dark brown or blackish coat with dark brown stripes. The stripes may not be very pronounced.
- Black brindle and white: A dark brown or blackish coat with dark brown stripes. This coat is offset by a large amount of white fur. The brindle patch(es) may be quite small.
- Brindle: An overall striping of darker and lighter brown. The brindle shades can vary greatly between dogs. Large amounts of white may be present, especially on the belly and muzzle.
- Brindle and white: A variety of mixed shades of brown with large patches of white. This coat may be a majority white with only small patches of brindle.
- White and black brindle: An overall white coat with patches of black fur with a dark or light brown stripes.
- White and brindle: An overall white coat with patches of brindle fur.
The Brindle Bull Terrier has a short, glossy coat that needs only weekly brushing to maintain a healthy luster and minimize shedding.
The AKC breed standards adopted in 1974 indicate that a show-quality dog in the “color” Bull Terrier category can be any color with white markings, with brindle being preferred. Brindle Bull Terrier owners agree.
For more information on brindle breeds, visit our guide on the Best Brindle Dog Breeds!
Brindle Bull Terrier Cost
A purebred Brindle Bull Terrier will cost as much as $2,500 and possibly more, depending on the quality of pedigree. Puppies with show-quality parents who are not spayed or neutered will command significantly higher prices.
Dogs without a prestigious pedigree will cost a little less. Bull Terriers without AKC registration papers will be the most affordable. These “pet quality” dogs will be spayed or neutered and won’t be used to compete in a dog show.
If genetic quality is important, then purchase from an AKC registered breeder to make sure that you’re getting the puppy you want. Get to know the breeder, ask for references if possible, and be willing to wait for the right dog to come along.
How Long Do Brindle Bull Terriers Live?
The expected lifespan of a Bull Terrier is 12 to 13 years. Unlike many dogs who have a relatively wide life expectancy, Bull Terriers typically experience a similar lifespan.
A Bull Terrier’s lifespan can be maximized with good care.
Make sure the dog gets appropriate amounts of exercise, eats nutritious food, maintains a healthy weight, and has regular vet checkups to catch any health complications early on.
Common Bull Terrier Health Problems
The Bull Terrier is a hardy and athletic dog, but it’s genetically prone to several serious diseases. Regular vet checkups are necessary to catch potential complications while they’re treatable.
- Heart complications like aortic stenosis, which decreases blood flow throughout the dog’s body.
- Kidney disease, including kidney failure.
- Patellar luxation, which is when the kneecap shifts to the side, causing intense pain and limping or hopping.
Bull Terrier puppies should have a full health check before they’re offered for sale. Require a health check for any puppy, or have one completed by a veterinarian. The dog should receive regular well-pet checkups from the veterinarian to monitor health.
Bull Terriers don’t usually have much trouble with ear moisture because the ears are up and alert at all times. However, when the dog is running through heavy brush, thorns, or sticker bushes, there’s a high risk of something lodging in the ear canal.
One of the most common problems for dogs with open ears is having something like a foxtail grass seed bury itself into the unprotected ear canal. Check the dog’s ears regularly after outdoor playtime and watch for signs of irritation like scratching or head shaking.
If the dog seems frustrated by his ears, immediately take him to the vet for an ear check.
Do Brindle Bull Terriers Shed?
Brindle Bull Terriers shed minor amounts of fur all year, with a slight increase in shedding during the seasonal changes.
The Bull Terrier hair is so short that shedding is usually not noticeable. It’s easily maintained with weekly brushing to remove loosened hair. A grooming glove is perfect for the Bull Terrier and promotes bonding time.
Temperament
Bull Terriers have an iconic and somewhat aggressive look. This is largely due to the powerful jawline, muscular chest, and rigid stance. However, this dog isn’t a bully, despite its name. Bull Terriers are friendly, playful, and loyal.
Strangers may be afraid to approach a Bull Terrier, but the dog is unlikely to show aggression. Rather, the dog is prone to initiating friendship with nearly everyone and is always up for a fun game.
The Bull Terrier loves nothing more than to be with its family. This is a loving and protective dog, but never overly aggressive. It shows intuition about when to show its strength and when to be a friend.
Early training is key to developing a well-socialized and obedient Bull Terrier. The Bull Terrier is intelligent. If left alone for long periods, it will get bored and look for exciting things to do. This will result in destructive behavior.
Bull Terrier energy and mental acuity must be exercised as often as possible to keep the dog healthy, happy, and obedient.
Wondering when the best time to train a puppy is? Check out our guide on When to Start Training a Puppy!
Exercise Needs
These athletic dogs do particularly well with agility training and dog sports. This type of activity is particularly well-suited to the Bull Terrier because it provides the exercise the dog needs plus mental stimulation to keep it out of trouble.
Agility training is also a perfect bonding opportunity for the Bull Terrier and owner to learn to work together to accomplish goals. The Bull Terrier’s mind and body thrive with these types of challenges, and they look stunning in agility competitions.
Other types of exercise that suit the Bull Terrier well are walking and jogging, provided the Bull Terrier is well-socialized and doesn’t show aggression toward other dogs, people, and neighborhood animals.
The Bull Terrier enjoys exercise as often as possible to ward off boredom. These dogs can be trained to work, compete in dog sports, and offer safety for owners as they exercise.
Though the Bull Terrier enjoys a couch cuddle as much as the next dog, too much of this good thing will not be tolerated. The Bull Terrier needs to get out and play.
Do Bull Terriers Make Good Pets for First-Time Dog Owners?
Bull Terriers have a reputation for being stubborn and hard to train. This can be difficult for first-time dog owners who don’t have a background in dominance training and obedience training.
It’s certainly possible for a first-time owner to truly enjoy the experience of having a Bull Terrier. The key is to get professional training from the first day of puppy ownership.
Complete dominance training and obedience training with the dog as many times as necessary to get the point across to the terrier. The Bull Terrier is a member of the terrier family.
These dogs are:
- Tenacious
- Stubborn
- Hyper
- Clever to the point of conniving
- Sociable
These are all points that make them famously good at vermin hunting, dog sports, and working companionship.
First-time dog owners who choose the Bull Terrier must have extra patience, especially for the first few years. They must utilize consistent training techniques and not let the Bull Terrier get the upper hand. This patience is rewarded with a charming, calmer, and well-trained canine pal.
Are Bull Terriers Good with Children?
The Bull Terrier is an excellent companion for children, especially if the puppy and child are raised together. However, this requires double-diligence for parents. The dog must be dominance and obedience-trained and the child must be simultaneously taught to love, respect, and be kind to the dog.
The Bull Terrier isn’t more patient with pinching, pulling, and being stepped on more than any other dog breed. If children in the home cannot be responsible and respectful to the dog, then the Bull Terrier will not be a good fit for the family.
Families with small children also must consider the puppy habits that are exhibited for all breeds. These include teething, playing games, struggling to house train, and nipping or biting during play. Especially sensitive or sedate children will find the Bull Terrier overwhelming and intimidating.
For children who can love and care for the Bull Terrier, possibly taking an active part in training, the Bull Terrier is a loving, cuddly, and playful companion. The Bull Terrier will be loyal and protective of the child for life.
How to Find a Brindle Bull Terrier
Brindle Bull Terriers can be found more easily than other brindle dogs. The brindle coat is popular for Bull Terriers, so breeders produce them as much as possible. While the local classifieds may turn up a few Bull Terrier options, be sure to do a thorough check on any breeder before purchasing a dog.
The best place to find a puppy with a good pedigree is to find a puppy from a breeder that’s registered with the AKC. Always interview the breeder and check references before buying a puppy.
Adoption is a different way to get a Brindle Bull Terrier. Organizations take in dogs and work diligently to find them a new home. A rescue dog is more of a risk, but they’re even more inclined to please and love than a hand-raised puppy.
Local or national clubs can be a perfect source for support, adoption information, club events, trainers, and reputable breeders with litters on the way. This type of support group can help you decide if the Bull Terrier is right for you and help you get the right dog whether you buy a puppy or adopt.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Brindle Bull Terrier
The pros of owning a Brindle Bull Terrier are easy to list. The dog is beautiful, loving, extremely playful, adventurous, loyal, protective, and intelligent. It’s one of the more athletic dogs and suits active families.
Families who love to play outdoors, hike, and enjoy outdoor training activities are the perfect match for a Bull Terrier. While the dog loves to cuddle and nap, frequent play is preferred.
The cons of owning a Brindle Bull Terrier aren’t as numerous but must be considered. The dog is notoriously stubborn and hyper. Some Bull Terriers exhibit a tendency toward compulsive behavior or antisocial behavior.
Those who intend to leave the Bull Terrier at home all day or left in the yard all day while the family is away will have big trouble on their hands. The Bull Terrier isn’t suited to a neglected lifestyle. The need for stimulation, exercise, and adventure will cause destructive behaviors.
How Fast Does a Brindle Bull Terrier Grow?
The Brindle Bull Terrier will achieve most of its growth by 40 weeks old. After this time, the dog will continue to grow a little and put on some weight, but the growth is slow. By 1 year old, the dog reaches maturity.
Female Brindle Bull Terriers grow a little more slowly and don’t reach the same size and weight as male Bull Terriers. It’s important to avoid feeding junk food and table scraps to a Bull Terrier because this will encourage excess weight, stress knee joints, and increase the risk of injury during play and exercise.
| Lifespan | 12 to 13 years |
| Weight | 50 to 70 pounds |
| Height | 21 to 22 inches tall |
| Suitable For | Singles, couples, families, children |
| Grooming Requirements | Weekly brushing |
| Health Concerns | Joint, heart, and kidney complications |
| Temperament | Loyal, protective, playful, loving, athletic |
The Brindle Bull Terrier is an enchanting dog with a huge personality. This is the perfect dog for the individual or family that loves to play.
Final Thoughts
The keys to happiness with a Brindle Bull Terrier are training, quality time together, frequent activity, and socialization.
The socialization window for Bull Terriers is approximately between the second and fifth months of life. Bull Terriers exposed to many different people, animals, and dogs during this time will be much more well-balanced.
