In China, the Bull Terrier is still a relatively niche breed, although its popularity increased sharply once it became famous in internet memes. Like many purebred dogs, the purebred Bull Terrier carries a risk of inherited disease. Three of the most talked about hereditary issues are compulsive spinning, deafness, and sudden rage syndrome.
Compulsive spinning in the Bull Terrier
Spinning is a form of obsessive compulsive behavior and is relatively common in Bull Terriers. During an episode, the dog may spin in place while chasing its own tail and continue even if the tail begins to bleed. The behavior can last for hours, and the dog may ignore food or toys completely during that time. A common management approach is to avoid keeping the dog in a small cage, use more open restraint or secure management when necessary, and increase walking and activity time so that the dog has a better outlet for its energy.
Deafness in the Bull Terrier
Deafness is one of the best known hereditary conditions in this breed. Research suggests that about 18 percent of white Bull Terriers and nearly 2 percent of colored Bull Terriers may show some degree of hearing impairment. Deafness may affect one ear or both ears. A dog with hearing loss in only one ear can often still live as a normal family pet, but a dog that is deaf in both ears is much more difficult to keep safely with people. There is no especially good treatment, so the main strategy is to screen puppies early. When buying a Bull Terrier puppy, owners should ask the seller for hearing test results.
Sudden rage syndrome in the Bull Terrier
Sudden rage syndrome is somewhat similar to an intermittent psychiatric disorder. Most of the time the dog appears normal, but during an episode it can become extremely fierce and attack people or other animals, only to return to normal afterward as if nothing happened. This is especially frightening in a Bull Terrier because the breed has a very powerful bite. If such a dog really bites someone, the consequences can be serious. There is essentially no reliable treatment for a Bull Terrier with true sudden rage syndrome, and in severe cases euthanasia may be the only safe outcome.
These are three of the better known hereditary problems in Bull Terriers, and anyone who wants to raise the breed should be aware of them. In reality, the Bull Terrier is often lively, affectionate, and bright. The unusual appearance combined with the existence of sudden aggression cases is what has contributed most to its fierce public image.