bull terrier (redirected from bull terriers)

bull terrier, breed of large, muscular terrier originating in England around 1835. It stands from 19 to 22 in. (48.3–55.9 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs from 30 to 36 lb (13.6–16.3 kg). Its short, flat-lying, harsh coat is glossy white or, in the colored variety, most popularly brindle with white markings. Developed for dogfighting from a cross of bulldog and a now extinct English terrier, the bull terrier was renowned for its courage, strength, and intelligence. However, down through the years English breeders placed increasing emphasis on the breed's overall disposition and less on its aggressiveness. As a result, the bull terrier of today is a friendly, gentle dog that makes a responsible and devoted companion. See dog.

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bull terrier

Breed of dog developed in 19th-century England from the bulldog and the now-extinct white English terrier. The Spanish pointer was later bred into the line to increase its size. The bull terrier was developed as a courageous fighting dog but not an aggressive fight provoker, and it is generally friendly. A muscular dog, it is considered, for its weight, the strongest of all dogs. It has a short coat, tapering tail, erect ears, and deep-set eyes. It stands 19–22 in. (48–56 cm) high and weighs 50–60 lbs (23–27 kg). There are two varieties, coloured and white.