Did you know?
Patsy Ann, a stray deaf Bull Terrier in Juneau, Alaska was dubbed the town’s “Official Greeter” by the mayor. Patsy Ann knew when boats were about to arrive, and she ran along the wharf to welcome them.
To this day a statue of Patsy Ann, who died in 1942, sits waiting for the ships to arrive in Juneau.
Miniature Bull Terrier
Our dogs will love and admire the meanest of us, and feed our colossal vanity with their uncritical homage. – Agnes Repplier
Thunderally’s Stormin Norman
“Norman”
Once bred for the now-illegal sports of bull-baiting and dog-fighting, the Bull Terrier was also used to control vermin.
Known in Britain for his courage and tenacity, he was developed in the early 1800s by crossing the now extinct Old English Bulldog and the Old English Terriers. The breeds were combined to produce a dog with the speed and dexterity of lightly built terriers and the tenacity of the Bulldog. The result was an animal known as the Bull and Terrier.
In the mid-19th century James Hinks started breeding Bull and Terriers with another now extinct breed, English White Terriers to further develop the legs and head. By 1917 the modern Bull Terrier had arrived.
Known in Britain for his courage and tenacity, the Miniature Bull Terrier was first documented in 1872 in The Dogs of British Island. Originally, Bull Terriers came in a wide variety of sizes but by the late nineteenth century the Miniature Bull Terrier was established as identical to the standard Bull Terrier in every respect but size.
Photos displayed courtesy of Carol Gray, Thunderally Bull Terriers, Ontario
Possessing the uniquely-shaped face of his larger cousin, the Miniature Bull Terrier’s head has been described as “egg-shaped”. When viewed from the front, his skull is almost flat. In addition, he has unique eyes as well being the only dog to possess triangular-shaped eyes.
This dog is strong and agile, and stands no taller than 14 inches (35.5 cm) tall at the shoulder, however there are no strict height or weight limits for the breed. His coat is short, smooth and may be solid white, brindle, tri-coloured, white with coloured markings, or coloured with white markings. He is susceptible to skin reactions and should have his diet closely monitored.
Like many terriers, this is an outgoing animal with a fearless, courageous and determined personality. Since he has a dominant nature, he may not be the dog for the inexperienced dog owner. He needs firm discipline.
Ch DeBully’s Irish Eyes
“Irish”
“Irish” is the Official Mascot for the Niagara Ice Dogs (OHL Hockey Team) and is pictured here with her ambassador friends Laura Leigh and Bones
This is a terrier and while he doesn’t go looking for a confrontation, he is perfectly capable of finishing one as it is not in his nature to back down, regardless of the size of the other dog. In fact, he doesn’t seem to recognize his smaller stature! He has a high pain tolerance and is a tenacious fighter. In addition, he may be aggressive towards other dogs. Small animals such as cats may be seen as prey. Early training and socialization is mandatory for this breed.
Miniatures are independent and stubborn and so require a lot of training, particularly early on. They must be heavily socialized and trained to obey as young dogs. Patience is the key to successfully developing obedience and good manners in the Mini. A properly trained, socialized, and supervised Miniature Bull Terrier is a friendly and amusing family pet who tolerates children very well. In fact, the Mini develops a very strong bond with his family and displays strong protective and possessive behaviours. As a consequence, he is often used as an effective watch and guard dog.
The Miniature Bull Terrier requires exercise as he is exuberant and energetic and may become destructive if bored or cooped up. Puppies seem to have an endless supply of energy! However, he will settle down as he matures but he will always require sufficient exercise to avoid a tendency to obesity.
Because of his personality, he should always be leashed when in public. He does best with a fenced backyard and plenty of opportunity to be active.
CKC Breed Standard
