English Bull Terrier insurance
Is the English Bull Terrier the right dog breed for you?
Our guide to living with an English Bull Terrier
With its distinctive looks, a mischievous spirit, and a big heart, the English Bull Terrier makes a great pet for experienced and active owners.
English Bull Terrier quick facts
- Origin: England
- Lifespan: 10-14 years
- Height: 45-55cm
- Weight: 20-38kg
- Coat colours: White, brindle, fawn, red, black or a mix
Where does the English Bull Terrier come from?
The English Bull Terrier was developed in the 19th century by crossing English Bulldogs with terriers to create a strong, determined, and agile dog. They were originally bred for vermin control as well as dog fighting. However, the breed was later refined and, since dog fighting was banned in the UK, these dogs have gone on to become popular as loyal companions, particularly with active families and experienced owners.
English Bull Terrier temperament
Energetic
Bull Terriers are energetic, loving, and full of personality. They’re incredibly loyal to their families and thrive on human companionship.
Mischievous
While affectionate, Bull Terriers are strong-willed and require consistent training. They can be quite mischievous!
Strong
Due to their strength and enthusiasm, they need supervision around children. To ensure they get along well with other pets, early socialisation is important too.
Appearance and size of the English Bull Terrier
With its distinctive, egg-shaped head and muscular, stocky build, the English Bull Terrier is a unique looking dog with plenty of personality. Their grooming needs are generally low. They have a short, dense coat that’s easy to maintain; a weekly brush and occasional bath are usually enough to keep them looking good. However, their skin can be sensitive, so regular checks for irritations or allergies are recommended. In particular, it’s a good idea to check their ears regularly. This will help catch any signs of irritation or infection early. You may want to consider regular ear cleaning with a vet to prevent problems.
Are Bull Terriers hypoallergenic?
No, English Bull Terriers aren’t hypoallergenic. They have short fur and, although they’re not heavy shedders, they can still trigger allergies in sensitive people. Regular grooming can help reduce loose hair and dander.
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English Bull Terrier training
- 1
Use positive reinforcement
Bull Terriers are intelligent but independent, which can make training a challenge. If you get an English Bull Terrier puppy, they respond best to positive reinforcement and consistent leadership.
- 2
Start socialising early
You’ll also need to socialise them from day one, which is important to prevent stubborn or dominant behaviour.
- 3
Give them regular playtime
This breed has lots of energy and needs both mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. They can get quite boisterous if they’re not given the chance to get rid of their energy! This means regular playtime, training sessions, and structured exercise are essential.
- 4
Use mental stimulation
You should exercise them for at least one hour a day, plus engage in extra playtime and lots of mental stimulation so they don’t get bored.
- 5
Give them company
English Bull Terriers don’t like being left alone for too long. They love human company and can get bored or destructive if they’re left to their own devices. If you must leave them, you should provide toys and mental stimulation. You may also want to consider a dog walker to help get rid of all that energy.
English Bull Terrier health issues
English Bull Terriers are in The Kennel Club’s ‘Category 2’ of breeds to watch. Category 2 breeds are those ‘with visible health concerns linked to exaggerated conformation that need closer attention and monitoring.’ For the Bull Terrier, it’s the potential for dental issues – ‘misplaced canine teeth’ - that have got it on the list.
Some other common health issues for English Bull Terriers include:
Deafness (especially in white Bull Terriers)
Lethal acrodermatitis
A genetic disease that causes fatal skin and growth problems (affects white Bull Terriers)
Skin allergies (sensitive skin prone to irritation)
Heart disease (mitral valve disease)
Kidney problems
Patellar luxation (knee joint issues)
For some health problems, such as lethal acrodermatitis, there’s DNA testing. Breed clubs can help provide advice and information on what tests your dog may need and how to get these done.
To reduce the chances of your dog having certain conditions, it’s also wise to make sure the parents of your puppy have had all the relevant health screening. Again, seek advice from respected breeders, clubs, or vets for more information.
What we love most about English Bull Terriers
Full of personality
Playful, affectionate, and sometimes mischievous.
Loyal companions
Deeply devoted to their families.
Low-maintenance coat
Easy grooming with minimal shedding.
The English Bull Terrier is bold, affectionate, and endlessly entertaining. Just make sure you do plenty of research and are fully committed to their training and socialisation needs, as well as being up for the challenge of giving them plenty of exercise.
Things to consider before getting an English Bull Terrier
English Bull Terrier insurance with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet’s fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.
So, whatever happens throughout your English Bull Terrier's life, we’ll always be there for you and your dog!
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your dog can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your dog.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Dotty about dogs? Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.
Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.
English Bull Terrier FAQs
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