All puppies should be checked for deafness, which occurs in 20% of

pure white dogs and 1.3% of colored dogs^[2] and is difficult to notice,

especially in a relatively young puppy. Many Bull Terriers have a

tendency to develop skin allergies.^[3] Insect bites, such as those from

fleas, and sometimes mosquitoes and mites, can produce a generalized

allergic response of hives, rash, and itching. This problem can be

stopped by keeping the dog free of contact from these insects, but this

is definitely a consideration in climates or circumstances where

exposure to these insects is inevitable. Their average lifespan is around

10–12 years,^[4] although they may live longer - a male bull terrier house

pet in South Wales, UK by the name of "Buller" lived to the age of 18

years.^{[citation needed]} The oldest female Bull Terrier on record is an

Australian house pet dubbed "Puppa Trout" who remained sprightly into

her 17th year.^{[citation needed]} The second oldest female Bull Terrier on

record is "Boots Moon Stomp Stout (Crain)" of Denver, Colorado

USA.^{[citation needed]} Boots lived to be 16 years of

age.^{[citation needed]}

The Bull Terrier's coat is easy to maintain, but grooming can keep it in

near-perfect condition. Adding oils to their meals can also vastly impro

ve the quality of their coat.^{[citation needed]} English Bull Terriers have

thin, fine hair that requires minimal grooming. They are known to have

light shedding patterns. Another important issue is that any whiteness

around the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, stomach or hindquarters with a

short and sparse haired breed such as this must be protected against

the sun with a gentle but high SPF factored sunscreen to prevent

sunburn and subsequent cancer.^{[citation needed]} The Bull Terrier

requires a fair amount of exercise.