Exercise
Due to the nature of English Bull Terriers, they need a lot of exercise. Prolonged walks and games in parks and secluded areas will help the dog to stay fit and also to seek less attention around the house. It will also help combat weight gain, which is a common problem with Bull Terriers. Try to find secluded areas to play with the dog, as English Bull Terriers will be aggressive towards other dogs in their vicinity if they are not used to other dogs.
Owning this breed of dog is a great way for the owner to stay in shape, as the dog will be able to play or walk for hours. It can be used as a perfect companion for hikers and joggers and will be great to tire your children as it will play with them for hours if given the chance.
Without this exercise, the dog can become destructive indoors or chew on objects. They will also be very clear about the fact that they do not like to be alone. A good exercise program is needed before the dog is left alone to prevent frustration from showing inside the house.
Training
Training English Bull Terrier dogs is hard work, but it will ensure that it is a pleasure to be around the dog for a very long period of time. The dog tends to be very possessive of home and family members. There are excellent training methods to prevent this type of overprotective behavior. The dog needs firm and dominant handling as it is used to being the dominant party. Therefore, an owner must establish a chain of command very early in life to prevent the dog from taking over the home.
The dog is very smart and intelligent and will detect which family member is the boss in the house and which part of the family they can basically ignore. If the idea is that more than one person takes care of the dog, each and every one of these people should participate in the training and raising of the dog.
Due to the strength and energy this dog possesses, fighting games or other “strength games” should be avoided with this breed. The dog may view this as a struggle for dominance in the home and this should be avoided at all costs.
The breed is associated with jumping towards people with teeth showing (albeit inadvertently biting or attacking) and this can instill fear in people. Therefore, a good command of the word SIT is very important.
It is important to train the dog to be a willing walker on a leash or leash, as it is nearly impossible to let the dog walk alone outside your home or yard.
Many owners use the English Bull Terrier for obedience and agility events as they love being used for this and they love being able to show off their skills in front of a crowd.