In the 1980s, there was a Bud Light beer marketing campaign in which a dog named Spuds McKenzie appeared prominently. More recently, in 2017, we got a reminder of the dog through a Super Bowl LI ad. And that, once again, aroused interest in the dog’s breed.
The Spud McKenzie dog breed is Bull Terrier. A Bull Terrier usually has a head whose shape is oval: somewhat looking like an egg. It also has distinctive triangular eyes. And although it is a zestful and sociable dog, a Bull Terrier (like the Spuds McKenzie dog) can also be unbearably stubborn at times.
Some of the people who express interest in knowing the Spuds McKenzie dog type do so in a bid to find out whether they can acquire a similar dog.
But we also have those who endeavor to know the Spuds Mackenzie dog breed type out of pure curiosity. So you find that they may not really be keen on acquiring a dog similar to the one in those old time Bud Light beer ads.
But they only want to know the Spuds McKenzie breed just for the sake of it.
Often, and partly because the whole thing was so long ago, folks may even have difficulties remembering the name right.
That is how you end up with references like Spudz McKenzie, Spuds Mckinsey, Spuds Mckensie, Spuds Mckenzy or even Spot McKenzie dog!
What is clear all through is that there is still lots of interest in knowing the Spuds Mackenzie dog type.
History of the Bull Terrier
Inhumane bloodsports involving animals became popular in Britain around the 13th century. In particular, a sport known as bull-baiting involved a bulldog fighting a tethered bull as people bet on the results.
Britain banned such bloodsports in the 1800s. But some people took them underground instead. Rather than bull-baiting, which was too conspicuous, they focused on dogfighting. And they wanted more fiery and nimble dogs, so they crossed their bulldogs with various terriers. Several breeds arose from this, including the bull terrier.
As dogfighting diminished toward the mid-1800s, breeders worked to refine the bull terrier to make it more of a companion dog. They bred for a sweeter temperament and less rugged appearance. It would still take several more decades before the dog acquired its trademark curved head.
The American Kennel Club first recognized the breed in 1885. And there have been several notable bull terriers throughout history. President Theodore Roosevelt owned a bull terrier. And bull terriers have helped to market both Bud Light beer (Spuds MacKenzie) and Target (Bullseye).
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History, Care Tips, and Helpful Information for Pet Owners
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The bull terrier is a medium-large terrier dog breed from England that has a short, smooth coat and a unique “egg-shaped” head. Its ears are small and pointed, and its eyes also are small with a triangular shape. Overall, these dogs have a solid, muscular build. They tend to be quite entertaining and energetic companions—goofy and stubborn, at times. They’re often called a “kid in a dog suit.”
HEIGHT: 21 to 22 inches
WEIGHT: 50 to 70 pounds
COAT: Short, smooth
COAT COLOR: Nearly any color, including white, red, fawn, black, blue, or brindle
LIFE SPAN: 12 to 13 years
TEMPERAMENT: Affectionate, lively, friendly
HYPOALLERGENIC: No
ORIGIN: England
Where to Adopt or Buy a Bull Terrier
Bull terriers are a fairly popular dog breed. So be sure to check local animal shelters and rescue groups for a dog in need of a home if you’re looking to acquire a bull terrier. If you want a puppy from a reputable breeder, expect to pay around $500 to $3,500, though this can vary widely.
For further information to help you find a bull terrier, check out:
FAQ
How much does a Spuds MacKenzie dog cost?
Is a bull terrier a good family dog?
Is Target dog a pitbull?