Smithfield vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison | MyDogBreeds

Smithfield vs Bull Terrier - Breed ComparisonBoth Smithfield and Bull Terrier are originated from United Kingdom. Smithfield may grow 8 cm / 3 inches shorter than Bull Terrier. Both Smithfield and Bull Terrier are having almost same weight. Both Smithfield and Bull Terrier has same life span. Smithfield may have less litter size than Bull Terrier. Smithfield requires Moderate maintenance. But Bull Terrier requires Low maintenance

History

smithfield - historyThe Smithfield is also known as the Smithfield, Smithy or Tasmanian Smithfield and is a herding dog found in Australia but originating in the UK. There is also the possibility that there was an Australian dog bred at a place known as Smithfield, near Texas which is just inside the Queensland border.

It is thought by some that the Smithfield is extinct. The dog was first introduced to the Land Down Under in colonial times.

The Smithfield isn’t recognised by the Canine Councils, but in 1862 the first Dog Show was held in Australia.

bull terrier - historyThe Bull Terrier belongs to the Terrier group of dogs and this already tell you that he is highly energetic and that he is essentially intolerant of other pets.

They are hunters by nature. The Bull Terrier is known as the Gladiator of the canine world. This breed came about through English breeders of the late 19th century, crossing old fighting dogs which carried Bulldog blood with Terriers. It was in the 1850s that James Hinks of Birmingham in the West Midlands was the first person to standardise breed type for the Bull Terrier. Hinks wanted his dogs to be white, and breeding was designed to achieve this.

Because of medical problems with the all-white dogs, Ted Lyon introduced color, using the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and these became a separate variety. It is however, the white strain that is famous for pets as well as for show purposes.

Description

smithfield puppy - descriptionThe Smithfield is a medium to large sized dog, strong and square-bodied with a wedge shaped head. Many people liken his looks to a Bearded Collie.

He has a rough, medium length coat. The coat has different colors such as white, black, grey or reddish brown. The coat is shaggy and in fact they are often clipped to give them a groomed look and to prevent grass and burrs clinging to the coat.

The tail of the dog can either be a natural bobtail or it could have a longer tail. When the tail is long it is carried low with an upward turn at the tip. The ears are mostly floppy and held close to the head.

He stands at between 46 to 53cm in height and weighs between 16 and 25kg. A bright, alert expression is a distinctive feature of the Smithfield.

Temperament:

The Smithfield is an active, robust dog and they have well balanced, stable personalities. They are often described as being laid-back.

You won’t find any signs of shyness or aggression with these dogs and they are known to be gentle and calm. They are self confident and well adjusted and also hard working.

They are devoted and loving to their human family and are also intelligent. When they’ve been trained and socialized they make splendid family pets, wonderful with children, just loving to run and play. These are dogs you can rely on to be consistent in nature.

Strongly Built and Muscular

bull terrier puppy - descriptionThe Bull Terrier is a strongly built, muscular dog with a distinctive egg-shaped head. The height of this dog is roughly 53 – 61cm and he weighs in at about 24 – 29kg. He has a short, dense coat which comes in different colors such as white, red, fawn and white or brindle.

The ears are medium sized and erect and the eyes are pig-like, small and dark. The medium length tail is carried slightly upwards.

A Temperament of Courage

The Bull Terrier is a determined, strong-willed, stubborn dog and he will require firm handling and training. With socialization and training, he becomes a friendly, loving dog who is good around children.

He tends to be possessive with his human family and their territory, making him aggressive with other pets. Bull Terriers actually have even temperaments and they are good, social dogs with people. He is courageous, brave, full of spirit and character.

Characteristics

smithfield dog - characteristicsThose who have owned a Smithfield love them and say that once you’ve owned one, you’ll want another.

These easy going dogs have all the characteristics necessary to ensure a good pet, playmate and companion. They are devoted to their human family, and given the chance will become a very special 4-legged member of any family who appreciates the friendship a such a dog offers.

bull terrier dog - characteristicsThe way people bring their dogs up has a lot to do with the way they turn out. The Bull Terrier has often been thought to be a dangerous dog, but this is because of a bad upbringing.

A dog like the Bull Terrier who has received firm, fair and loving training is an absolute pleasure to have as a pet. Yes, he is a strong willed, stubborn and intelligent dog and he has the make-up to turn out to be a handful. It is perhaps why he isn't the best choice for first-time dog owners who aren’t familiar with the breed and who don’t raise him the right way.

If you choose a Bull Terrier, bring him up correctly, have him trained and socialized and never neglect him and he is guaranteed to become a wonderful, loving family member.

Health Problems

smithfield puppies - health problemsThese dogs enjoy exceptional good health and can reach between 10 and 14 years of age.

You have to be careful with your pet however, because there are quite a few common dog illnesses that can plague your pet, and we look at a few -

Canine Distemper:

This is caused by a contagious virus. Infected dogs develop symptoms such as runny eyes, fever, coughing, vomiting and even seizures. Unfortunately this disease is often fatal. There is luckily a vaccine against it and it is highly recommended for your pet.

Canine parvovirus:

Also a very contagious disease which attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing fever, vomiting and diarrhea. It is often spread by contaminated stools and feeding utensils of dogs. Many dogs die from parvo but there is also a vaccine against it.

Heatstroke:

This is terrible for your pet and is a huge risk for dogs during Summer. Never leave your pet in a car unattended, especially on a hot day. Remember that stub-nosed dogs such as Boxers, Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are more prone to respiratory problems and heat can be deadly for them.

bull terrier puppies - health problemsYour Bull Terrier is a robust breed, but there are some health issues that you will want to be aware of. For instance, the white Bull Terrier is more prone to deafness than the Brindle or tri-colored Bull Terriers. With good food and lots of love and care, he can reach 14 years of age. However there are one or two ailments what you want to be aware of.

Patellar Luxation:

This is a common orthopedic condition with dogs, affecting both knees and resulting in loss of function and discomfort. Patellar luxation can sometimes come from a traumatic injury to the knee. However, with non-traumatic patellar luxation, the femoral groove for the knee cap is shallow or absent.

Skin Cancer:

Not every variety of skin cancer in dogs is caused by sun exposure, but sun damage to the skin of the pure white Bull Terrier can be a factor. Dogs with white coats are more susceptible to sun damage. Speak to your vet about symptoms so that a physical examination will reveal the reason for sores on the skin.

Caring The Pet

Exercise:

smithfield dogs - caringThe Smithfield has plenty of energy and loves nothing more than lots of games with the children. He will also look forward to a walk every day as well as other activities.

Grooming:

When it comes to grooming, you can save money by grooming your dog at home. Whether you have your pet’s hair cut or you leave it as is, get into the habit of brushing the fur at least twice a week. You can speak to your vet or groomer and get advice on what comb of brush to use on your Smithfield.

It you want to cut your pet’s hair, it is important to use the right equipment so you don't accidentally injure him. Certainly if you feel unsure about shaving your dog at home, leave this grooming aspect to the experts.

Have your pet’s nails trimmed.

Check your pet’s eyes. They must be clear and bright. Check inside his mouth for bad teeth. Check inside his ears to make sure they aren’t red with infection.

Diet:

Your Smithfield is relying on you to provide him with good food. For convenience, it is always a good idea to have a packet of the best dry kibble there is. Check out the label and make sure to buy one that has a good balance of vitamins and minerals.

Give him some tasty homemade food too. Remember to keep it plain and simple. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are nutritious and tasty. This food can all be chopped up and small portions added to the dry kibble twice a week as a treat.

You’ll never have to worry about digestion problems with your dog. A little bit of raw meat can also go a long way to ensuring his skin stays healthy and free of skin infections. Ensure that he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Exercise:

bull terrier dogs - caringThe Bull Terrier is a stocky, robust breed and he will need plenty of exercise. He thrives on a good run, long walks and ball games. He is notoriously destructive, so you need to recognize this before you buy such a dog, because simply putting one in your back-yard and ignoring him will make him aggressive and destructive. This is a dog that needs lots of physical as well as mental exercise.

Grooming:

With the short coat, Bull Terriers are easy to groom, and a brushing twice a week will keep the coat in tip top condition. He will also love the time you spend with him. Shedding of hair with the Bull Terrier is more frequent in the Spring and Fall.

Nail clipping and brushing of teeth are two other grooming routines for your dog. Remember that with teeth brushing, don’t be tempted to use human toothpaste as this can be toxic for your pet. Speak to your vet if in any doubt about how to brush your pet’s teeth.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Terrier dog
Origin:
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Height Male:
46 - 53 cm
18 - 21 inches
51 - 61 cm
20 - 25 inches
Height Female:
46 - 53 cm
18 - 21 inches
49 - 61 cm
19 - 25 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 25 kg
35 - 56 pounds
24 - 29 kg
52 - 64 pounds
Weight Female:
16 - 25 kg
35 - 56 pounds
24 - 29 kg
52 - 64 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
10 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
1 - 12
Size:
Medium dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Smithy, Tasmanian Smithfield
English Bull Terrier, Gladiator, White Cavalier
Colors Available:
grey or reddish brown., black, White
White, Tan, Brindle, tri-color
Coat:
Medium length, rough shaggy
Short and smooth
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Territorial
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Smithfield vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  2. Smithfield vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Smithfield vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) - Breed Comparison
  4. Smithfield vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  5. Smithfield vs Bearded Collie - Breed Comparison
  6. Smithfield vs Collie - Breed Comparison
  7. Smithfield vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  8. Smithfield vs Dutch Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  9. Smithfield vs Blue Healer - Breed Comparison
  10. Smithfield vs English Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Smithfield vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  12. Smithfield vs Catahoula Cur - Breed Comparison
  13. Smithfield vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  14. Smithfield vs Catalan Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  15. Smithfield vs Pyrenean Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Smithfield vs Bergamasco - Breed Comparison
  17. Smithfield vs Berger Picard - Breed Comparison
  18. Smithfield vs Appenzell Mountain Dog - Breed Comparison
  19. Smithfield vs Queensland Heeler - Breed Comparison
  20. Smithfield vs German Coolie - Breed Comparison
  21. Smithfield vs Bohemian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Smithfield vs Croatian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  23. Smithfield vs Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  24. Smithfield vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) - Breed Comparison
  25. Smithfield vs Blue Lacy - Breed Comparison
  26. Bull Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  27. Bull Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  28. Bull Terrier vs Bedlington Terrier - Breed Comparison
  29. Bull Terrier vs Austrian Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  30. Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Bull Terrier vs Blue Paul Terrier - Breed Comparison
  32. Schnauzer vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  33. Fox Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Bull and Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  35. Irish Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  36. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  37. Kerry Blue Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  38. Lakeland Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  39. Jagdterrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  40. Indian Bull Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  41. Irish Bull Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  42. Japanese Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  43. Brazilian Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  44. Old English Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  45. Scoland Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Skye Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  47. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  48. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  49. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison
  50. Welsh Terrier vs Bull Terrier - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds