Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Summary
The Bull Terrier was developed in England in the 19th century as a result of crossing the Bulldog with various terriers. The goal of breeding was to create a strong, resilient, and courageous dog with a balanced temperament. Initially used for fighting, the breed was later refined through selective breeding to become an elegant companion and a symbol of loyalty. The white variety became known as the “White Knight” for its noble appearance and steadfast nature. Over time, colored varieties were developed, and the Bull Terrier gained worldwide recognition as a reliable, devoted, and even-tempered friend of humans.
General Appearance
The Bull Terrier is a sturdy, muscular dog of medium size with a well-developed, harmonious build and a powerful yet elegant silhouette. Its distinctive feature is the egg-shaped head with no stop or sharp angles, curving smoothly from the top of the skull to the tip of the nose. The eyes are small, triangular, dark, and expressive, giving an intelligent and determined look. The body is strong and deep with a broad chest and well-developed musculature. The back is short and level, the loin powerful, and the croup slightly rounded. Limbs are strong, straight, and well-boned. The tail is short and set low. The coat is short, smooth, and glossy. Overall, the Bull Terrier gives an impression of strength, confidence, and restrained nobility typical of the breed.
Important Proportions
The Bull Terrier has balanced, solid proportions that reflect strength and athleticism. The length of the body slightly exceeds the height at the withers, creating a compact, well-proportioned silhouette. The head is long but in balance with the body, featuring the characteristic smooth downward curve from the top of the skull to the nose. The muzzle must retain depth and power throughout its length, without tapering. The chest is broad and deep, reaching the elbows. The back is short, the loin muscular and strong. The limbs are straight, with solid bone and correct angulation. The height at the withers and body length are in proportion, emphasizing the breed’s harmony, endurance, and steady balance without heaviness.
Behavior and Temperament
The Bull Terrier is a courageous, confident, and loyal dog with a strong personality, high intelligence, and independence. With proper upbringing, it becomes a reliable, friendly, and well-balanced companion. Self-assured, energetic, and curious, it shows keen awareness of its surroundings. Despite its fighting ancestry, the modern Bull Terrier is affectionate toward people, patient, and playful with children. It thrives on communication and attention and does not tolerate loneliness. It is intelligent and trainable but requires firm, fair leadership. The character combines bravery, devotion, and discipline, making the Bull Terrier a true symbol of power and intellect in harmony.
Head
The Bull Terrier’s head is long, strong, and deep, with a smooth, egg-shaped outline when viewed from the front. The skull is flat between the ears, with no stop, curving evenly downward to the nose. The muzzle is strong and deep, maintaining its width throughout. The nose is large, black, and slightly curved downward at the tip. The lips are dry and tight-fitting. The lower jaw is powerful, with a correct scissor bite. The head should give an impression of strength and refinement without coarseness or exaggeration. Its distinctive shape is the hallmark of the breed, lending an intelligent and noble expression.
Foreface
The foreface is powerful yet harmonious, following the smooth profile curve of the skull. The muzzle is long, deep, and broad, filling the face evenly from eyes to nose without narrowing. The nose is black, with slightly downward curvature. The lips are tight and dry, never pendulous. The jaws are strong and well-aligned, with a correct scissor bite. The chin is firm and well-defined. The cheeks are smooth, without heaviness, preserving the elegant contour. The face conveys determination and balance, with a confident, noble expression free from harshness or roughness.
Eyes
The eyes are small, narrow, and triangular, set obliquely and deeply, giving a piercing and determined expression. The color is dark brown or almost black, creating a striking contrast with the coat. The gaze is intelligent, focused, and lively, showing the breed’s courage and awareness. The eyes should be as dark as possible and placed close to the nose line without being too close together. Light, round, or protruding eyes are undesirable. The correct eye shape and expression give the Bull Terrier its distinctive, spirited, and intelligent look.
Ears
The ears are small, thin, and close together, set high on the head. They must be erect, pointed, and held upright when alert, forming sharp tips that enhance the breed’s alert expression. Large, widely set, semi-erect, or drooping ears are faults. The ears should complement the smooth contour of the skull and accentuate the breed’s egg-shaped head. Correctly set ears give the Bull Terrier its lively, attentive, and determined expression, emphasizing both temperament and elegance.
Neck
The neck is long, arched, dry, and muscular, widening smoothly toward the shoulders. It must be free from looseness or dewlap, adding elegance and dignity to the posture. The skin fits tightly and smoothly. The neck provides a graceful transition to the body, ensuring balance and freedom of movement. Well-developed but never coarse, the neck emphasizes the breed’s athletic and aristocratic character.
Body
The body is compact, solid, and muscular, expressing power and stability. The chest is deep and broad, with well-sprung ribs that add roundness and strength. The back is short, straight, and strong; the loin muscular and slightly arched; the croup broad and gently sloping. The abdomen is moderately tucked up. The overall outline is smooth, balanced, and square in proportion. The shoulders are powerful and well-integrated into the frame. The Bull Terrier’s body exemplifies the balance between strength, elegance, and endurance.
Tail
The tail is short, set low, thick at the base, and tapering to a fine point. It is carried horizontally or slightly downward and should not curl over the back. In movement, the tail is carried naturally and firmly. Excessively long, high-set, or ingrown tails are undesirable. The tail’s shape completes the harmonious outline, underlining the dog’s strength, energy, and composure.
Forequarters
The forelegs are straight, strong, and well-boned, placed parallel and set moderately apart. The shoulders are long, sloping, and well laid back, providing smooth and free movement. The elbows point directly backward, not turning in or out. The forearms are strong and straight; the pasterns are short, firm, and slightly flexible. Feet are round, compact, with strong pads and tight toes. The front assembly provides power, stability, and precision, emphasizing the Bull Terrier’s athletic endurance.
Hindquarters
The hindquarters are strong, muscular, and well-balanced, providing strength and propulsion. The thighs are broad and powerful, the stifles well bent, and the hocks low and firm, directed straight backward. The metatarsi are short and vertical. Feet are compact and round, with thick pads. In movement, the hindquarters provide powerful drive and steady rhythm. Their structure gives the Bull Terrier stability, confidence, and dynamic strength.
Gait and Movement
The movement is free, strong, and energetic, with coordinated, springy action. The forelegs move straight forward, and the hind legs deliver a powerful thrust. The topline remains level and firm, with no swaying or crossing of limbs. The gait reflects balance, precision, and natural athleticism. Each stride is confident and efficient, showcasing the breed’s endurance, coordination, and self-assured character.
Coat
The coat is short, dense, smooth, and glossy, fitting tightly to the body and emphasizing muscular definition. It is firm and elastic to the touch, without softness or waviness. In winter, a fine undercoat may appear but should not affect the breed’s sleek appearance. The coat covers the body evenly and should be clean and healthy, with a natural sheen that highlights the dog’s structure and vigor.
Permissible Colors
Two main color types are recognized: white and colored. In white Bull Terriers, the coat is pure white, with only minor markings on the head permitted. In colored varieties, the main color must predominate over white. Acceptable colors include brindle, red, fawn, black-and-tan, and tricolor, with rich shades preferred. Blue, liver, and gray are disqualifying. The color should be clear and even, with well-defined markings that enhance the breed’s characteristic appearance.
Size
The Bull Terrier is a medium-sized, strongly built, and well-proportioned dog. Height at the withers typically ranges from 45 to 55 cm. Weight varies according to build but should maintain proportional balance between mass and height. The body is compact and muscular, without heaviness or delicacy. The dog must appear balanced, strong, and agile. The emphasis is on overall harmony, strength, and breed type rather than strict measurements.
Faults
Faults include any deviation from the standard type or balance. Weak musculature, narrow chest, long or short back, light bone, or poor angulation are undesirable. Other faults include an excessively large or small head, lack of curve in profile, light or round eyes, incorrect ear placement, or a rare, wavy, or soft coat. Behavioral issues such as shyness, unwarranted aggression, or lack of responsiveness are also penalized. Any feature detracting from strength, balance, or breed expression lowers the overall evaluation.
Disqualifications
Serious faults disqualifying from breeding or show include incorrect bite (under- or overshot), jaw asymmetry, skull deformity, blue or parti-colored eyes, lack of pigment on the nose, or unacceptable coat colors (blue, liver, gray, or blue-and-tan). Structural deformities, spinal or limb defects, and signs of inherited disease are disqualifying, as are behavioral defects such as cowardice or uncontrolled aggression. Only dogs with official ICCF documentation confirming pure lineage and conformity to the breed standard may participate in shows and breeding.
Important Notes
Judges pay special attention to overall balance, strength, and breed expression. The Bull Terrier must be muscular, active, and well-proportioned, free from coarseness or heaviness. The head should maintain its typical curved profile with an intelligent, confident expression. Temperament must be calm, loyal, and courageous. Only ICCF-registered dogs with confirmed lineage, sound health, and breed conformity may participate in exhibitions and breeding programs.
Conclusion
The Bull Terrier embodies strength, intelligence, and noble character. Balanced, energetic, and loyal, it combines individuality with distinct breed identity. Its confidence, courage, and devotion make it a reliable companion and guardian. Responsible breeding ensures the preservation of its health, temperament, and characteristic type. Only dogs possessing official ICCF documents verifying lineage and standard conformity are approved for shows and breeding. The Bull Terrier stands as a symbol of discipline, resilience, and unwavering loyalty to humankind.
