Could the Bull Arab Be the Perfect Match for You?
If you’re looking for a strong, independent, and even-tempered dog, then the Bull Arab may be the perfect breed for you! Carry on reading to find out more about this Australian breed.
Breed Snapshot
- Size: Large dog (32 – 42 kg)
- Coat: Moderate shedder. This breed has a short, soft, and smooth double coat.
- Energy: High-energy breed. These dogs need around 60 minutes of exercise a day.
- Lifespan: 12 – 15 years
- Country of origin: Australia
- Breed type: This breed is not recognised by any kennel club. Bull Arabs are highly intelligent and easy to train.
- Other names: Australian pig dog, Aussie pig dog
- Great breed for: Homes with a secure backyard, Experienced dog owners
What is a Bull Arab?
The Bull Arab was developed by a man called Mike Hodgens in 1972. He wanted to create a strong breed that would inherit qualities from three specific dog breeds: the bull terrier, the greyhound, and the German shorthaired pointer. Mike stopped breeding the Bull Arab in 1981, but these dogs continued to develop into a versatile breed. The Bull Arab is still not recognised by any of the major kennel clubs.
The Bull Arab is not the best choice for first-time dog owners, as it needs an experienced owner that can deliver ongoing training. With the right training, these dogs can make excellent family companions.
What do Bull Arabs look like?
The Bull Arab has a strong and proportionate, agile body with a broad head and a tail that narrows towards the tip. It has a strong muzzle, rounded eyes, and a wide nose with large nostrils. The breed also has a powerful jaw and muscular legs. The eye colour of these dogs depends on the coat colour – light-coloured dogs have amber or plain eyes, and dark-coloured dogs have brown eyes. These large dogs stand at around 61 to 69 cm tall and weigh around 32 to 42 kg.
The Bull Arab’s coat is smooth, short, and predominantly white in colour with the addition of one other colour, such as black, brindle, silver, or tan.
What makes the Bull Arab special?
The Bull Arab is quite a playful breed and makes an excellent watchdog, hunter and family pet. The breed is intelligent, easy to train, calm, and composed. Bull Arabs can also be used as search and recue dogs due to their endurance and good sense of smell.
How often do I need to groom my Bull Arab?
The Bull Arab’s short and soft coat requires minimal maintenance. Weekly brushing is required with a slicker brush or natural bristle brush to keep the coat in good condition – professional grooming is not required with this breed. They will need slightly more grooming during the shedding seasons to remove any loose hair. Bathing is only required occasionally, and the ears and nails should be checked at regular intervals.
How often should I walk my Bull Arab?
Bull Arabs are highly energetic dogs and need at least 6o minutes of exercise a day. They have great stamina and will chase anything they see. They make great running, sledding, and hiking partners for energetic people who love being outdoors. It is best to exercise these dogs in large open spaces away from other dogs, as they don’t always get on well with small dogs.
How do I train my Bull Arab?
The Bull Arab requires a dominant leader and is best homed with an experienced dog owner. This is a breed that needs continuous training and early socialisation to keep it in order. They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy playing games. It is a good idea to check out the petcloud.com.au website to find training sessions near you.
Quickfire Bull Arab questions
How long will my Bull Arab Live?
Bull Arabs have a good lifespan of between 12 and 15 years.
Can my Bull Arab be left alone during the day?
The Bull Arab loves being around people and other animals and does not tolerate being left home alone for long periods of time. Check out the petcloud.com.au for more information on day care for your dog.
Are Bull Arabs ‘barkers’?
Bull Arabs are not known ‘barkers’ unless they are telling someone off!
What kind of health risks do Bull Arabs face?
Bull Arabs can suffer from a few health conditions, such as epilepsy, cataracts, and bloat. Remember that if you need any transport to get your dog to the vets, groomers, or anywhere else, petcloud.com.au can help you to find a suitable pet taxi service near you.
Where can I get a Bull Arab?
If you have now decided that the Bull Arab is the breed for you, then it is time to decide where to get one from. Make sure that any dog you buy is healthy, and avoid places like pet shops, puppy mills, and online marketplaces. Be sure to find reputable breeders that will provide you with a healthy puppy. Bull Arabs can end up in rescue centres because Pet Owners adopt without understanding or committing to the level of training required. Be sure to check out the RSPCA website that will provide more details on how to adopt a puppy or dog.
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