Bull Terrier and Miniature Bull Terrier: Complete Breed Guide (2026)

TL;DR: The Bull Terrier (FCI no. 11, Group 3) and the Miniature Bull Terrier (FCI no. 359, Group 3) are muscular, energetic, and exceptionally affectionate terriers with an unmistakable egg-shaped head. The standard Bull Terrier weighs 22–32 kg; the Mini Bull Terrier weighs up to 15 kg at a maximum height of 35.5 cm. Both require an experienced owner, 1.5–2 hours of daily exercise, and intensive socialisation from puppyhood. Buying a Mini Bull Terrier puppy from an FCI breeder typically costs €1,200–2,000.

History and origin of the Bull Terrier breed

The Bull Terrier was originally developed in 19th-century Britain by James Hinks, who crossed the now-extinct White English Terrier with the Bulldog and the Dalmatian. The goal was to create a dog with the courage and power of the Bulldog combined with the agility of the Terrier — a gentleman's companion (the so-called "White Cavalier"), not a fighting machine. The Miniature Bull Terrier developed in parallel through selective breeding of smaller individuals. The FCI registered the Bull Terrier as no. 11 and the Miniature Bull Terrier as no. 359, both in Group 3 (Terriers).

View the Bull Terrier breed profile on Dog Breed Pedia with complete FCI parameters.

What is the difference between the Bull Terrier and Mini Bull Terrier?

At first glance they look identical — the iconic egg-shaped head with no stop, small triangular eyes, muscular body. The key difference is size:

Parameter	Bull Terrier	Miniature Bull Terrier
FCI number	11	359
Height at withers	45–55 cm	max. 35.5 cm
Weight	22–32 kg	11–15 kg
Lifespan	11–14 years	11–14 years
FCI group	3 (Terriers)	3 (Terriers)
Specific health risk	Deafness (BAER)	Deafness + PLL eye disease

The Miniature Bull Terrier's compact size makes it a popular choice for urban living and it is often considered one of the best apartment dog breeds — provided it receives adequate daily exercise outdoors.

What is the Bull Terrier's temperament like?

The Bull Terrier (and Mini) is famously known as the "clown in a dog suit". It is extraordinarily playful, cheerful, and devotedly loyal to its family — it wants to be involved in everything you do. At the same time, it is 100% terrier: stubborn, independent, with a high prey drive. It is always friendly towards people and never seeks conflict. Without proper socialisation from puppyhood it can become dominant or intolerant towards other dogs, especially of the same sex.

How much exercise do Bull Terriers and Mini Bull Terriers need?

Both need at minimum 1.5 to 2 hours of vigorous exercise every day. A short walk around the block is not enough — they excel at hiking, running, agility, or puller. Insufficient physical and mental stimulation leads directly to destructive behaviour. A bored Bull Terrier can demolish furniture in no time.

How do you train a Bull Terrier?

Training requires patience, consistency, and firm but kind leadership from day one. The Bull Terrier responds excellently to positive reinforcement (high-value treats + play) and short, fun training sessions. It does not respond to physical punishment or harsh drilling — it simply becomes more stubborn. Start socialisation immediately — before buying, read the essential questions to ask before getting a puppy.

Bull Terrier health and genetic diseases

The Bull Terrier and Mini Bull Terrier are fairly healthy breeds, but specific risks must be understood. Always seek a reliable breeder who health-tests their breeding dogs:

• Deafness (BAER test): The white variety is more prone to unilateral or bilateral deafness. A responsible breeder BAER-tests every puppy before sale.
• PLL (Primary Lens Luxation): Especially significant for the Miniature Bull Terrier — a genetic eye condition that can lead to blindness. DNA tests are available to identify carriers.
• Heart and kidney disease: Hereditary heart valve problems and polycystic kidney disease (PKD). The breeder should provide cardiac and renal test results for both parents.
• Skin problems: White Bull Terriers are more sensitive to sunlight, allergens, and skin infections.

Expected lifespan for both breeds: 11 to 14 years.

Is the Bull Terrier or Mini Bull Terrier right for you?

Bull Terriers and Mini Bull Terriers are wonderful dogs for active owners and families with older children. Not suitable for complete beginners, people with a sedentary lifestyle, or those who spend long hours away from home.

Find verified Bull Terrier and Mini Bull Terrier breeders on Dog Breed Pedia.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Bull Terrier and Mini Bull Terrier

What is a Miniature Bull Terrier?

The Miniature Bull Terrier (FCI no. 359) is the smaller version of the standard Bull Terrier. It shares the same distinctive egg-shaped head, identical temperament, and the same FCI standard — the only difference is size. The height of the Mini Bull Terrier must not exceed 35.5 cm and the weight is typically 11–15 kg.

How much does a Mini Bull Terrier cost?

A Mini Bull Terrier puppy from an FCI-registered breeder typically costs between €1,200 and €2,000. The price depends on the parents' show titles, available health tests (BAER, PLL DNA), and current litter availability. Puppies without pedigree are cheaper but carry a higher health risk.

Where to buy a Mini Bull Terrier puppy?

Always buy a Mini Bull Terrier puppy exclusively from FCI-registered breeders who provide a BAER hearing test and a PLL DNA test. A reliable starting point is the Dog Breed Pedia breeder database or your national kennel club.

What is the difference between a Bull Terrier and a Mini Bull Terrier?

The main difference is size. The Bull Terrier weighs 22–32 kg at a height of 45–55 cm. The Mini Bull Terrier weighs 11–15 kg at a maximum height of 35.5 cm. Temperament and character are virtually identical — the Mini Bull Terrier is additionally prone to PLL (hereditary eye disease).

Are Bull Terriers aggressive?

No, the Bull Terrier is not aggressive towards people. It is a friendly, playful, and loyal breed. Towards other dogs it may be dominant if not properly socialised from puppyhood, especially towards dogs of the same sex.

Can a Mini Bull Terrier live in an apartment?

Yes, the Mini Bull Terrier can live in an apartment, provided it receives at least 1.5 hours of outdoor exercise per day. Its compact size (max. 35.5 cm, 11–15 kg) makes it suitable for urban living. Without sufficient exercise it becomes destructive indoors.

How long does a Bull Terrier live?

The average lifespan of both the Bull Terrier and the Mini Bull Terrier is 11 to 14 years, depending on genetic quality, parental health tests, and the dog's lifestyle.

What health tests should Bull Terrier parents have?

Before buying a Bull Terrier or Mini Bull Terrier puppy, ask for: (1) BAER hearing test for both parents or the puppies, (2) PLL DNA test (essential for Mini Bull Terriers), (3) cardiac examination, (4) renal examination (PKD). A breeder who cannot provide these tests is not reliable.

How much exercise does a Bull Terrier need daily?

Both the Bull Terrier and Mini Bull Terrier need at least 1.5–2 hours of active exercise every day — not just a walk, but vigorous physical activity (running, puller, agility) combined with mental stimulation (training, nosework).

Are Bull Terriers good with children?

Yes, Bull Terriers get along very well with older children. They are playful, energetic, and non-confrontational. Due to their robust build they may inadvertently knock over small children — they are recommended for families with children aged 6 and above.