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Bull Terrier vs Scottish Terrier

Compare two breeds

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First breed
Second breed
Bull Terrier photo

Bull Terrier

Developed in 19th century England by crossing bulldogs with terriers, this breed started out in fighting rings and rat pits before being refined into a purely companion breed. The distinctive egg shaped head, with no clear stop between forehead and muzzle, is the breed's trademark and recognizable even to people who know nothing else about dogs. A male can weigh up to 28 kilograms of muscular, compact build. The short, dense coat needs little upkeep, but underneath it sits an unusually strong bone and joint structure. The Bull Terrier is known for a stubborn, playful streak and a strong drive to chew and play that can turn destructive if the dog is bored. With consistent socialization it's typically friendly toward people but can be intolerant of other dogs of the same sex. Life expectancy runs 10 to 14 years.

Scottish Terrier photo

Scottish Terrier

In the Scottish Highlands this breed was bred to hunt fox, badger and other burrowing game, its low, sturdy build suited to squeezing into narrow dens. The long eyebrows and beard aren't just for looks, they protected the eyes and muzzle from a cornered animal's teeth. The frame is compact, up to 10.4 kilograms, but carries unusually heavy bone for its size. The wiry coat needs regular hand-stripping. It's known as one of the more stubborn terriers, independent enough that standard obedience work takes real patience. Loyal to its family, reserved with strangers. Life expectancy runs 12 to 15 years.

At a glance

Bull Terrier Scottish Terrier
Height (male) 45.0–55.0 cm 25.0–28.0 cm
Weight (male) 24.0–28.0 kg 8.6–10.4 kg
Life expectancy 10–14 yrs 12–15 yrs
Coat short, flat harsh, wiry

Temperament & Family Life

Bull Terrier Scottish Terrier
Family friendly
Good with children
Good with other dogs
Friendly with strangers
Intelligence
Trainability

Exercise, Energy & Space

Bull Terrier Scottish Terrier
Energy level
Exercise need
Apartment friendly
Prey drive
Hunting instinct

Guarding & Alertness

Bull Terrier Scottish Terrier
Guarding instinct
Watchfulness
Barking level

Grooming & Care

Bull Terrier Scottish Terrier
Shedding
Drooling
Grooming need

Temperament and care scores (1-5) are a general guide based on the breed standard — every individual dog is different.