Home » Miniature Bull Terrier
In almost every way the Mini is a bull terrier, only smaller. In fact, prior to 1991 AKC classified the two bullills as varieties of the same breed. Minis are between 10 and 14 at the shoulder. They are square, fleshy, and, for their size, quite strong. His trademark is a large egg-shaped head, whose dark, triangular eyes swirl with mischief. It is impossible for any other to mistake bull terrier breeds. The coat may be pure white, or white with white markings.
The Bull Terrier was built as a fighting dog by crossing the Bulldog with the now extinct English Terriers in the 1830s. Shortly thereafter, breeders began working on a miniature version to use as above-ground raters (such as “terriers to go to ground”, which sink into the earth in search of quarry). . The result of a very long trial and duration was the Mini. Today’s minis are Companion Dogs, but ratters instinct and a protective streak remain as a memento of the breed’s early years.
The miniature bull terrier must be strongly built, symmetrical and active, with a deep, firm and intelligent expression. He should be full of fire, be courageous, even responsive to temperament and discipline.
The gestation period in lasts for 60-64 days The primary period of the reproductive cycle of the female is called Proestrus and goes on for around 9 days. During this time the females begin to draw in males. The subsequent part is the Estrus when the bitch is receptive to the male. It goes on for around 3 to 11 days. The third part is the Diestrus. Usually, it happens around day 14. In this period the bitch’s discharge changes for distinctive red and reaching its end. The vulva gets back to average, and she will no longer allow mating. The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time span between heat periods ordinarily keeps going around a half year. The litter size ranges between 6 to 8 puppies at a time’
The miniature bull terrier does not need to bathe regularly and be prepared more than once weekly with a soft brush or hound glove. Strong, fast-growing nails of the breed should be trimmed regularly using a nail clipper or grinder to prevent split and breakage of an elevated nail. Their ears should be checked regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris, which can result in infection. The tooth should be brushed regularly and also get periodic cleaning from your veterinarian.
Typical terriers, Mini Bulls require an instructor with a firm hand and a soft voice, along with great patience and a great sense of humor. MBTs are highly intelligent, inquisitive and independent, although they love to please their human because they know what you want. Many owners of mini bulls suggest clicker training. Whichever method you use, keep your tone positive, and make sure to keep training sessions light and fun to take care of your MBT. Early socialization is a must.
MBT can be difficult to exercise. They require adequate exercise in the form of puppies to remain in good condition and have good muscle tone, yet they may be at risk of “sudden lameness”. This is due to a combination of weight and muscle density, rapid growth rate, and the very character of the breed, which keeps them at an almost constant pace. Until the dogs are fully mature, their joints simply cannot handle the excess. For that reason, the exercise of MBT puppies should be kept to a minimum. Never allow them to jump up or down from heights or stop suddenly at high speed.
The miniature bull terrier should perform well on high quality dog food, whether it is commercially manufactured or prepared with the supervision and approval of your vet. Any diet should be appropriate for the age of the dog (puppy, adult or senior). Some mini bulls are at risk of being overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treatment training can be an important aid, but giving too much can lead to obesity. Know which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. If you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet, check with your vet. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times.
Ask your dog breeder for the results of health tests done on both the sire and the dam, and the results on the puppy for heart and kidney problems, deafness, looking patellas, and primary lens laxation. Puppies may be susceptible to sudden lameness, so care must be taken to limit some of their activities. The Miniature Bull Terrier Club of America requires breeder-members to test all breeding stock and puppies. Any responsible breeder should belong to the breed club and follow their rules.
Recommended health tests from the National Breed Club: