Bull Terriers...First Time Dog Owner?

Question

I have recently moved into a new home and I was thinking about getting a dog. I was doing a little research and sort have become attached to the appearance of the Bull Terrier. I have always had cats, and I dont know how rhis dog's personality is. I am looking for a small dog, that is good with young children and not so high maintnence because I am a full time student and would only be there during the early morining and late afternoon. If anybody has an advice on the bull terrier or any other type of dog that would fit theses decriptions, please let me know! Thanks!

Answer 1

Bull Terriers are great dogs, but probably not a good choice for you now. They aren't very good with children. If you have cats, I wouldn't suggest one, or anything small and furry. They average about 60# They really need to be an only dog.

They are also extremely active. Being a full time student, I'd wait on getting any dog at the present time. Your first job is to get the degree.

Plus besides the time, figure walking them at least 3 times a day...... Dogs are expensive! You should count on over $1000 a year just to maintain the dog. Food, shots, vet visits, etc.

Answer 2

Talk to a breeder. Find them on the Internet or in the phone book. They're the experts. Oh, also see if you can find a real old hand gun and load it. That way you'll have two real dangerous things that can go off without a warning. Also, when the pit bull finally attacks (and maybe destroys) another dog or child, have plenty of money or insurance when you are sued. Remember, in the number of human deaths, the pit bull breed is 3 times more dangerous then the next dog breed.

Answer 3

I love the look of the Bull Terrier also, but I would never own one because I don't believe the breed fits well with my temperament and training abilities. It's never a good idea to choose a dog based on looks alone. You should research various breeds to find the one that best fits your lifestyle, experience and ability. You can learn about the bull terrier at the Parent Clubs website:
http://www.btca.com/
If you decide that breed is a good fit for you, they will also be able to refer you to a breeder or rescue group.
If you'd like to research other breeds as well, go to www.akc.org

Answer 4

Bull Terriers are generally friendly dogs. Their physical strength is matched by their intelligence, and both body and mind need to be kept active. They can be obstinate and are not ideal dogs for the first-time owner. As a breed they are generally placid and will not normally make the first move. They are very affectionate dogs that love human company, so it is not a good idea to leave them alone for long periods of time as with their strong jaws they can cause severe damage if bored. Bull Terriers are particularly good with children and can stand a great deal of abuse due to their high pain threshold. They are protective of children in their charge. Younger dogs may regard children as playmates and because of their strength may cause inadvertant injury.

Answer 5

Don't get a dog at this time. You don't have the time to spend with him/her.

However, that's not the question.

I"m assuming you mean Boston Bull Terrier?

They're great little dogs. Wonderful little dogs - cute, smart, sassy.

BUT They demand a lot of time training, cuddling, playing and attention-getting or they find ways to get to your attention - peeing on things, tearing your $250 Gucci's to ribbons, you name it.

You might want something more mellow that doesn't require your attention right now.

Right off hand, I can't think of any dog that doesn't require more time than you have to give at this point in your life. My best advice is to wait until you have a lifestyle that allows for a fun energetic bouncy happy doggie in your life.

Answer 6

Great dog, but would require a lot more attention and training than you're going to be able to manage with your schedule.

Try researching other breeds and look for temperment, not looks, that suit your lifestyle.

Maybe you should wait a while until you're out of school - a dog is AT LEAST a 10 yr committment.

Answer 7

Bull terrier is a terrier breed-highly active.Not a dog that would suit a student.Also, since you are home so little and i would assume a s a student you cannot afford a dog walker, I would stick to a (pair) of cats...

Answer 8

They're excellent with children, but they are very high maintenence. They are very inquisitive, so if they get bored, they get into everything they can get their teeth into! I absolutely am in love with these dogs because they have such goofy characters, but this wouldn't be a good dog to have for the very first time. They're not very small - they're medium sized and they're really strongly built, so they can definitely push you around if they felt like it! haha They're very strong-willed and stubborn and have the potential to be somewhat aggressive if you can't put your foot down.

I would suggest something smaller like a Border Terrier or a Welsh Corgi. Both are easy to train, friendly, and fantastic with children as well. Try this website, it can suggest different breeds for you according to your preferences and lifestyle. Good luck!

http://www.puppyfinder.com/breedselector.php


EDIT:
Natalie, they were talking about Bull Terriers, not Staffies. :]

Answer 9

i would nto reccomend a staff bull terrier with kids.. i wanted one but have a 3 year old son, i was so close to buying one until i heard the story about the 4 year old girl who had half of her face bitten off by a staff. also they need lots of excersise. dogs need lts of attention and cost alot of pennys.. also you said you lived in a flat.. i would not reccomend a dog in a flat either as the garden and things?

Answer 10

bullies are not small- hieght wise yes, but they are very strong.. www.akc.org read up on them... then visit the parent club website, bull terrier club of america ( or something similar)