In the early 1800's Bulldogs crossed with terriers were

popular. By 1830 combat between Bulldogs and bulls were at

the height of their popularity. Lovers of this so called "sport"

decided to create a dog that would attack even more agilely.

They crossed the Bulldog with the Old English Terrier adding in

some Spanish Pointer blood, the result was the Bull Terrier

breed. They soon found that the Bull Terriers were not the

most successful fighters. In 1860 the white-coated variety,

which was nicknamed the "White Cavalier" was bred by a dog

dealer named English dog dealer James Hinks and soon

became a fashionable pet for nobles. The colored variety of Bull

Terriers were created by back crossing them with brindle

Staffordshires The breed has been used as a guard, ratter,

herder and watchdog. The Miniature was developed to have

the same qualities as the Standard Bull Terrier but with a more

manageable size. The Standard Bull Terrier was first

recognized by the AKC in 1885 and the Miniature Bull Terrier in

1991. While the AKC sees the Standard Bull Terrier and the Miniature

Bull Terrier as separate breeds the standard requirements are the same

accept for size. Whereas most other clubs see them as different

varieties of the same breed or the same breed without placing a variety

label. For example the FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale)

has both breeds listed under Bull Terrier separating them by a Standard

and Miniature variety. The UCK (United Kennel Club) does not place any

height or weight restrictions but does require the dog to be in proportion.

The Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1948.