Bull Terrier
BULL TAIR-ee-ur
Playful, Charming, Mischievous, Stubborn. Originally bred for bull-baiting; later dog shows and companionship.
An adult Bull Terrier weighs 55-70 lbs (male) or 45-60 lbs (female), needs 940-1,870 calories daily, and lives 12-13 yrs. This medium-sized breed balances well between manageable size and robust health. The breed's primary health watch is deafness (white bull terriers). All numbers below come from AKC breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult Bull Terrier needs 940 to 1,870 calories per day. An average male (62 lbs / 28.4 kg) needs around 1,460 kcal; a female (52 lbs / 23.8 kg) roughly 1,280 kcal. These estimates use the vet-standard RER/MER formula.
Estimate for a typical adult Bull Terrier. For puppies, seniors, or specific activity levels, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
The Bull Terrier has a life expectancy of 12-13 yrs, which is typical for dogs in this size range. The breed's primary health concerns are deafness (white bull terriers) and heart disease, which responsible breeders screen for before breeding.
Exercise and activity
60+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise. Bull Terriers are clownish and energetic. They need both physical and mental stimulation. Terriers are diggers, chasers, and independent thinkers. The Bull Terrier will investigate every hole, chase every squirrel, and test every boundary you set. Provide outlets for natural terrier behavior: digging pits, earth dog trials, agility, and puzzle toys that require problem-solving. Without sufficient exercise, the Bull Terrier is likely to develop destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or anxiety. This is a breed that needs daily commitment to physical activity.
Care and traits
Bull Terriers have a short, flat, harsh to the touch coat. Origin: England.
Distinctive egg-shaped head is unique to the breed. White Bull Terriers have higher deafness rates. Known for 'hucklebutting'; sudden, explosive running in circles. Can be obsessive about toys and objects.
Grooming needs are minimal. A weekly brushing to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils is sufficient for most Bull Terriers. Bathing is only needed when the dog is noticeably dirty or smelly.
Tools for Bull Terrier owners
Frequently asked questions
Adult Bull Terriers typically need 940 to 1870 calories daily. A 62-pound individual falls near the middle of that range. Monitor body condition monthly rather than relying solely on the scale. Medium breeds can carry extra weight without it being immediately obvious. Active dogs need more; seniors and less active individuals need less. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized number.
Males typically weigh 55-70 lbs (24.9–31.8 kg). Females run lighter at 45-60 lbs (20.4–27.2 kg). Medium breeds can carry extra weight without it being visually obvious, especially those with thick coats. Hands-on rib checks are more reliable than looking. The best home assessment is the rib test: place your thumbs on the spine and spread your fingers across the ribs. You should feel each rib individually. If you have to press to find them, the dog is carrying extra weight.
If you own a Bull Terrier, deafness (white bull terriers) is the condition your vet will likely screen for first. Talk to your vet about screening options and early detection strategies for deafness (white bull terriers). Other conditions seen in the breed include heart disease, kidney disease, patellar luxation. Awareness of these breed tendencies allows for early intervention, which often improves outcomes significantly.
The Bull Terrier is built for activity and needs 30 to 60 minutes of daily exercise. Good activities for this breed include digging games, earth dog trials, fetch. Mix physical activity with mental challenges like training, puzzle feeders, or nose work. An under-exercised Bull Terrier will find outlets for pent-up energy, often in ways you will not appreciate: chewing, barking, digging, or restless pacing.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on AKC standards and veterinary sources. Individual dogs vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026