Bullies
Breed Description

The Bullies are also commonly known by several other names that reflect their unique heritage and distinctive appearance. The most widely recognized alternative name is the Standard Bull Terrier, which distinguishes them from their smaller counterpart, the Miniature Bull Terrier. Throughout their history, they have also been called the White Cavalier, a name that pays homage to their originally all-white coat and their brave, gallant nature. Some enthusiasts and breed historians also refer to them as the Egg Head due to their distinctive oval-shaped skull, which is one of their most recognizable features. In various regions and among different kennel clubs, you might encounter terms like the English Bull Terrier, highlighting their country of origin, or simply Bull Terrier when the context makes it clear that the standard variety is being discussed rather than the miniature version.

The Bullies represent a truly unique and unmistakable breed in the canine world, characterized by their distinctive egg-shaped head, triangular eyes, and robust, muscular build. These medium-sized dogs possess an immediately recognizable silhouette that combines strength with elegance, power with grace. Their head is perhaps their most defining feature - completely filled and oval when viewed from the front, sloping evenly down to the nose without any hint of a stop or indentation. The profile reveals a gentle downward curve from the top of the skull to the tip of the nose, creating that famous "egg head" appearance that has become synonymous with the breed.

Standing between 21 to 22 inches at the shoulder and weighing typically between 50 to 70 pounds, Bullies present a picture of compact strength and athletic ability. Their body is well-rounded with remarkable muscle development, particularly evident in their broad chest and strong hindquarters. The breed's coat is short, flat, and harsh to the touch, lying close to the body and requiring minimal grooming. While the breed was originally developed as an all-white variety, modern Bullies come in a wide range of colors including brindle, fawn, red, black, and tricolor combinations, though white dogs may still show small markings on the head.

The temperament of Bullies is as distinctive as their appearance. These dogs are known for their playful, sometimes mischievous personality that can be both endearing and challenging. They possess a natural exuberance and zest for life that makes them excellent companions for active families. However, this same energy and intelligence can lead to destructive behaviors if not properly channeled through adequate exercise and mental stimulation. Bullies are incredibly people-oriented dogs who form strong bonds with their human families and often do not do well when left alone for extended periods.

American Kennel Club (AKC)

The AKC standard emphasizes the Bullies' unique head shape, describing it as "long, strong and deep, right to the end of the muzzle, but not coarse. Viewed from the front it should be egg-shaped and completely filled, its surface being free from hollows or indentations." The standard specifies that the eyes should be small, triangular, and deep-set, appearing almost black. The body should be well-rounded with great muscular development, particularly in the chest region. The coat is described as short, flat, and harsh to the touch with a fine gloss. Movement should be smooth and easy, covering the ground with free stride and driving action. The standard allows for both white and colored varieties, with specific guidelines for acceptable markings and color patterns.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)

The FCI standard places the Bullies in Group 3 (Terriers), Section 3 (Bull type terriers) without working trial requirements. The FCI description emphasizes a strongly built, muscular, well-balanced and active dog with a keen, determined and intelligent expression. The head is described as long, strong and deep, right to the end of the muzzle, but not coarse, with the distinctive egg-shaped appearance when viewed from the front. The FCI standard is particularly detailed about the breed's movement, requiring free, easy movement with a typical jaunty air. The organization recognizes both solid colors and multicolored varieties, with strict guidelines about preferred markings and any disqualifying faults.

United Kennel Club (UKC)

The UKC recognizes the Bullies as a Terrier breed and emphasizes their original function as a fighting dog that has evolved into a companionable family pet. The UKC standard places particular emphasis on the breed's temperament, describing them as good-natured, amenable to discipline, and devoted to their owners. The physical description aligns closely with other major kennel clubs, emphasizing the unique head shape and muscular build. The UKC standard specifically mentions that while the breed should be friendly and outgoing, they should also display courage and determination when the situation warrants it. The organization recognizes the same color varieties as other major registries.

Other Organizations

The Kennel Club (UK), being the original registry for the breed, maintains very similar standards to the AKC and FCI, with particular attention to the breed's English heritage. The Canadian Kennel Club follows closely with the AKC standard with minor variations in terminology. The Australian National Kennel Council emphasizes the breed's adaptability to various climates while maintaining the essential breed characteristics. Various specialty Bull Terrier clubs around the world may have slight variations in their interpretation of the standard, but all maintain the core requirements for the distinctive head shape, muscular build, and characteristic temperament that defines the breed.

The fascinating history of the Bullies begins in 19th century England, during a time when blood sports were popular entertainment and dog fighting was both legal and widely practiced. The breed's development is largely attributed to James Hinks of Birmingham, England, who in the 1860s began systematically crossing the existing Bull and Terrier breeds with White English Terriers and potentially Dalmatians to create what would become the modern Bullies. Hinks aimed to produce a more refined, elegant dog that retained the courage and tenacity of the bull-and-terrier types while adding a more stylish appearance suitable for the growing middle class.

The original dogs that formed the foundation of the breed were the result of crosses between Bulldogs and various terrier breeds, particularly the now-extinct Old English Terrier. These early bull-and-terrier dogs were primarily used for ratting and dog fighting, activities that required tremendous courage, strength, and tenacity. However, as attitudes toward animal welfare began to change in Victorian England, there was a growing demand for companion dogs that possessed the admirable qualities of these working breeds but were more suitable for domestic life.

Hinks' breeding program initially focused exclusively on white dogs, believing that the pure white color would distinguish his strain from the more common colored bull-and-terrier types and appeal to the fashionable society of the time. These all-white dogs became known as "White Cavaliers" and quickly gained popularity among the upper classes. The first dog show entry of Hinks' new breed occurred in the 1860s, where his white bull terriers caused quite a sensation and began to establish their reputation as both show dogs and companions.

The breed's development continued through the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with breeders working to refine the distinctive head shape and improve overall type. The unique egg-shaped head that characterizes the breed today was not present in the earliest specimens but developed gradually through selective breeding. The triangular eyes and the complete filling of the head area were specifically bred for and became hallmarks of the breed. During this period, the breed also began to be exported to other countries, including the United States, where it gained recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1885.

The two World Wars had a significant impact on the breed, as they did on many European dog breeds. Breeding programs were severely disrupted, and many quality bloodlines were lost. However, dedicated breeders worked to preserve the breed, and the post-war period saw a resurgence in both breeding and popularity. It was during the 1950s that colored varieties began to be accepted and shown alongside the traditional white dogs, adding new genetic diversity to the breed and expanding the available color palette.

In modern times, the Bullies have evolved from their fighting dog origins to become beloved family companions and show dogs. While they retain much of their original terrier spirit and courage, careful breeding has emphasized temperament traits suitable for family life. The breed has gained international recognition and popularity, though it remains a relatively specialized breed compared to more common companion dog varieties. Today's Bullies continue to embody the unique combination of strength, intelligence, and character that James Hinks envisioned more than 150 years ago.

The original function of the Bullies was deeply rooted in the rough-and-tumble world of 19th century England, where they served multiple purposes related to vermin control and blood sports. Initially developed from bull-and-terrier crosses, these dogs were bred to combine the tenacity and courage of bulldogs with the agility and prey drive of terriers. Their primary function was as fighting dogs, participating in organized dog fights that were popular entertainment before such activities were banned. However, even in their early fighting days, they were also valued as exceptional ratters, capable of clearing vermin from homes, businesses, and farms with remarkable efficiency.

As Victorian society evolved and blood sports fell out of favor, the function of Bullies transformed significantly. James Hinks and other early breeders recognized the need to develop dogs that could serve as both companions and status symbols for the emerging middle class. The refined white dogs became known as "gentleman's companions," serving not only as household pets but also as walking companions and carriage dogs for fashionable society. Their distinctive appearance and courageous demeanor made them popular with military officers and other prominent figures who appreciated their combination of loyalty and striking looks.

In agricultural settings, Bullies continued to serve valuable working functions well into the 20th century. Their strong prey drive and fearless nature made them excellent for controlling various farm pests, including rats, mice, and other small vermin that could damage crops and stored goods. Some were also used as general farm guardians, alerting families to the presence of strangers or predators, though their generally friendly nature meant they were more effective as alarm systems than as attack dogs.

During wartime periods, particularly during World Wars I and II, many Bullies served alongside their human companions in various military capacities. Their courage and loyalty made them valuable as messenger dogs, companions to soldiers, and morale boosters in difficult circumstances. Some were trained for specific military tasks, while others simply provided emotional support to troops far from home.

In modern times, the primary function of Bullies has evolved almost exclusively toward companionship and family life. They excel as therapy dogs in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and schools, where their gentle nature with people and distinctive appearance provide comfort and joy to those in need. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them suitable for various dog sports and activities, including obedience trials, agility competitions, and weight pulling events that allow them to showcase their strength and athleticism.

Today's Bullies also serve as excellent watchdogs for families, though their role is more about alerting than protecting. Their natural curiosity and tendency to investigate unusual sounds or activities make them effective at letting families know when something is amiss, even though their generally friendly disposition means they're more likely to greet intruders with enthusiasm rather than aggression. Some contemporary Bullies are trained for specialized work such as search and rescue operations, where their determination and physical capabilities prove valuable in challenging situations.

The behavioral characteristics of Bullies are as unique and distinctive as their physical appearance, reflecting their complex heritage as both working terriers and refined companions. These dogs possess an exuberant, sometimes mischievous personality that can be both delightful and challenging for their owners. Their behavior is characterized by high intelligence combined with a strong independent streak, traits that require patient, consistent training and plenty of mental stimulation to channel appropriately.

One of the most notable behavioral traits of Bullies is their intense people orientation and desire for human companionship. They form exceptionally strong bonds with their families and often struggle with separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods. This attachment can manifest in various ways, from shadowing family members around the house to becoming destructive when isolated. Their need for human interaction goes beyond simple companionship; they actively seek to be involved in family activities and can become quite demanding of attention when they feel ignored.

The play behavior of Bullies is particularly distinctive and often continues well into their senior years. They approach play with tremendous enthusiasm and creativity, often inventing their own games and finding entertainment in the most mundane objects. Their play style can be quite physical and boisterous, which makes supervision important around small children or elderly family members. Many Bullies develop amusing personal habits or rituals, such as specific ways of arranging their toys or particular routes they prefer to take during walks.

Training a Bullies requires understanding their unique psychology and motivation. While highly intelligent, they can be remarkably stubborn and selective about which commands they choose to follow. They respond best to positive reinforcement training methods that make learning fun and engaging rather than repetitive drill work. Their terrier heritage means they have strong opinions about how things should be done and may challenge authority if they perceive training as boring or unfair. Consistency and patience are crucial, as is keeping training sessions short and varied to maintain their interest.

Social behavior with other dogs can be complex and is heavily influenced by early socialization experiences. Many Bullies display some degree of dog selectivity, preferring certain canine companions while being indifferent or even aggressive toward others. Their terrier instincts can trigger chase behaviors toward smaller animals, and their strength and determination mean these behaviors must be carefully managed. With proper socialization from puppyhood, many Bullies learn to coexist peacefully with other pets, though supervision is often necessary during interactions.

The exploratory and investigative behaviors of Bullies reflect their intelligent, curious nature. They are natural problem solvers who enjoy figuring out how things work, sometimes to their owners' dismay when this curiosity is directed toward household items. Many develop impressive escape artist skills, learning to open doors, gates, and even simple latches. This intelligence, combined with their strength and determination, means Bullies require secure fencing and careful supervision in new environments. Their investigative nature also makes them excellent at finding and destroying items left within reach, particularly during their puppy and adolescent years.

The family dynamics involving Bullies are complex and rewarding, characterized by deep emotional bonds and interactive relationships that extend far beyond typical pet ownership. These dogs integrate themselves so thoroughly into family life that they often consider themselves equal members rather than pets, a perspective that can lead to both amusing situations and occasional challenges for their human families. Their intense desire for inclusion means they want to participate in all family activities, from daily routines to special occasions, and they can become quite vocal about their disapproval when excluded from events they consider important.

With children, Bullies typically form especially strong attachments, often becoming devoted guardians and playmates. However, their relationship with young children requires careful management due to their size, strength, and enthusiastic play style. They may inadvertently knock over small children during exuberant greetings or play sessions, making supervision essential until children are old enough to interact safely. Older children who can participate in training and care often develop extraordinary bonds with their Bullies, creating relationships that can last throughout the dog's lifetime and beyond.

The territorial aspects of Bullies' behavior within the family setting are generally mild compared to true guard dog breeds, but they do maintain strong preferences about their space and belongings. They often claim specific sleeping spots, favorite toys, or even particular family members as "theirs," displaying gentle but persistent possession behaviors. This territorial tendency usually manifests as blocking access to claimed items rather than aggressive guarding, though consistency in house rules helps prevent any escalation of possessive behaviors.

Multi-dog households with Bullies require special consideration and planning. While many Bullies can learn to live peacefully with other dogs, their interactions are often complex and may require ongoing management. They tend to do better with dogs of the opposite sex and may show preferences for certain breeds or sizes of companions. The introduction of a new dog to a household with an established Bullies should be done gradually and with professional guidance if needed, as their territorial instincts and strong personalities can lead to conflicts if not properly managed.

The daily routine in a Bullies household often revolves around the dog's needs and preferences to a greater extent than with many other breeds. Their high energy levels and need for mental stimulation mean that families must plan for substantial exercise time, training sessions, and interactive play. Many families find that incorporating their Bullies into regular activities such as hiking, jogging, or even errands helps meet these needs while strengthening family bonds. The breed's tendency toward separation anxiety also means that family schedules often need to be coordinated to ensure the dog is not left alone for extended periods.

Extended family and visitors often find themselves subject to the Bullies' unique approach to hospitality. While generally friendly, these dogs have definite opinions about guests and may take time to warm up to new people. They often serve as unofficial greeters and entertainment for visitors, displaying their toys or performing tricks to gain attention and approval. Their distinctive appearance and often humorous antics usually make them memorable to anyone who encounters them, though their enthusiasm can be overwhelming for guests who are not comfortable with dogs.

The health considerations for Bullies encompass both breed-specific concerns and general canine health issues that affect medium-sized, active dogs. Overall, the breed is considered relatively healthy with a typical lifespan of 12-13 years, though individual dogs may live shorter or longer depending on genetics, care, and environmental factors. Responsible breeding practices and regular veterinary care play crucial roles in maintaining the health and longevity of these distinctive dogs.

One of the most significant health considerations for Bullies is their predisposition to deafness, particularly in white dogs. Congenital deafness affects approximately 20% of white Bullies and is caused by a lack of pigment in the inner ear. This condition can affect one or both ears and is typically present from birth. While deaf dogs can live full, happy lives with appropriate accommodations, early detection through BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) testing is important for proper management and training adjustments.

Kidney disease represents another area of concern for the breed, with both hereditary nephritis and polycystic kidney disease occurring in some bloodlines. Regular monitoring of kidney function through blood work and urinalysis helps detect these conditions early, allowing for management strategies that can slow progression and maintain quality of life. Additionally, heart conditions including mitral valve disease and cardiomyopathy can affect some individuals, making regular cardiac evaluations important throughout the dog's life.

If you're looking to adopt a Bullies, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Bullies waiting for their forever homes.