The Bull Arab is a loyal and friendly breed that is quite hard to come by outside of its native Australia.
History of the Bull Arab Breed
The origin of the Bull Arab can be
traced back to 1970's Australia. Breeder Mick Hodgens began experimenting with
various breeds in hopes of creating a superior pig herding and driving dog, and
eventually the Bull Arab was born. Enthusiasts believe the Bull Arab to have
been developed by crossing such breeds as the American Pit Bull Terrier and the
American Staffordshire Terrier, though Hodgens is yet to give his secret away.
Throughout its history, the Bull
Arab has been most commonly used for hunting and tracking large game, herding
and driving pigs, and as a watch and guard dog, proving its superior abilities
to work while providing protection and companionship.
Today, while the Bull Arab has
attained an underground popularity as a working and companion dog, the breed
remains rather rare outside of Australia.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Bull Arab Dog Breed
When properly socialized from a young age, the Bull Arab gets along well
with children and other pets, known for its gentle and sweet approach to small
children. These dogs are protective and territorial, making effective watch and
guards dogs, by announcing the arrival of guests and unwanted visitors, and
serving as a deterrent to would-be intruders. The Bull Arab is obedient, loyal,
loving, and affectionate, making an excellent working dog, family pet, and
companion alike.
Unfortunately, there are also
disadvantages to owning a Bull Arab. These energetic and active dogs require
large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play. Anyone wishing to
purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate
to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. A Bull Arab not receiving the
proper amount of exercise and space will often act out by destroying property,
chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.
The Bull Arab has a strong instinct
to hunt and herd, and will occasionally indulge in a good chase. When on the
run, these dogs are very quick, and may pose a threat to other animals,
neighborhood pets, and small woodland creatures. The Bull Arab must be leashed
or properly secured at all times when outdoors.
As previously mentioned, the Bull
Arab remains rather rare outside of its native Australia
and can prove difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed
often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, high prices,
and being placed on long waiting lists.
Common Health Concerns in the Bull Arab Dog Breed
While the Bull Arab is typically
known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems,
including: epilepsy, primary lens luxation -dislocation of the lens, cataracts,
glaucoma, cryptorchidism - failure of one or both of the testicles to fully
descend, and bloat.
Source:
http://www.heydogs.com/b/bull-arab.html