Are Bull Terriers dangerous ?

Are Bull Terriers dangerous ?

That is a frequently asked question. Are bull terriers dangerous?

Many dog owners will change sides on the street if they come across somebody walking their bull terrier.

Bull Terriers are feared and considered dangerous by many. In some countries, owning and breeding them is prohibited while in other countries, they are on the dangerous breeds list.

Enthusiasts of the breed claim that the Bull Terrier is a completely harmless dog , never aggressive towards other animals and humans.

On a you-tube video titled The Most Dangerous Dogs on Earth with Kyle Schwab - ManStoppers

Bull Terriers are briefly mentioned ( time 1:09:53). Mr. Kyle Schwab says in his opinion Bull Terriers are extremely dangerous. Mr. Robert Cabral , jokingly calls the bull terrier “chainsaw on four legs”.

This is the prevailing opinion about the Bull Terrier ,among trainers.

What is the truth? Are bull terriers dangerous or not?

The Bull Terrier is a very strong dog, maybe the strongest of his size. Due to their biting force, the breed is among the 20 breeds with the strongest bite. These facts alone are enough to categorize any dog as dangerous.

A dog of any breed with such a strong bite, high drives and very high pain threshold can become dangerous in the hands of inappropriate owners.

As far as the bull terrier is concerned , properly socialized at an early age and properly trained, the Bull Terrier is not dangerous.

By Socialization, we do not mean a walk in the park. Correct socialization means the dog has been exposed to a plethora of stimuli. Children, dogs, other animals, older people and more. Emphasis is given to the dog's socialization with children. It is mostly children that are being attacked by dogs and these attacks are the most dangerous ones.

By training we mean the correct training. The dog performs all basic obedience commands regardless of the environment and the conditions. A dog that performs only in a familial environment and only in the absence of distractions is not trained. Trained means the dog performs always, anywhere regardless the conditions.

Long time experience in Professional Dog Training, and Bull Terrier breeding, suggests that we be honest if we want what is best for the breed .

The mere fact of socializing and training a Bull Terrier is no guarantee the dog will not exhibit aggressive behaviour.

Aggression towards other animals, especially dogs of the same gender happens a lot more frequently than people want to believe and some breeders will admit. Given the history of the breed this is considered normal. It is the dog owner's responsibility to be able to handle their dog readily and effectively , in case the dog shows aggression.

Conclusion: The Bull Terrier is a dog that properly socialized and trained can be a perfect family pet. Bull Terriers are generally balanced dogs. Aggressive behaviour , if ever exhibited, can be effectively corrected. The owner of the bull terrier will define whether the dog will become dangerous or not.

Those of you who already have a bull terrier, find the time needed to properly train and socialize your dog. Those who are thinking about getting a Bull Terrier , know that they are wonderful beings with a lot of energy and of delightful character. Before you get your first Bull Terrier, get informed about the ways you will properly socialize and train your dog.

Breeders, trainers, dog owners, we all have our share of responsibility on the reputation and popularity of the breed. If we want to keep enjoying our favourite breed and keep it out of restrictions, we need to act responsibly before anything else.