Bull Arab

66-88 lbs
24-26"
Australia
BA, Arab, Aussie Pig Dog, Australian Pig Dog

The Bull Arab is also known as the Australian Pig Dog as they were originally developed to hunt and then pin pigs to the ground by the ear. Because of this background, this breed has been known to be aggressive but can also adapt to be a wonderful family pet. They just need the right training and socialization, which means they aren’t a dog for novice pet parents. 

In this guide to the Bull Arab, you’ll discover:

  • This isn’t a pure breed, but a hybrid of dogs that include the Bull Terrier and the Greyhound  
  • Bull Arabs need experienced pet parents that understand the challenges that might come with this energetic, highly active breed 
  • They’re very loyal in nature — so an ideal choice if you’re looking for a guard dog
  • A Bull Arab has a strong prey drive, so owners should be cautious when around other dogs and children


Bull Arab breed overview

The Bull Arab dog is an Australian breed that’s known for being very loyal to their family. This is why — as well as being highly valued as wild pig hunters — they make an excellent guard dog. They’d benefit from very active pet parents as they’re also known for their high energy, and would thrive in the right kind of environment.

If you’ve seen Bull Arab puppies for sale and are considering getting a youngster, then you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 from a reputable breeder. As an alternative, you could also look at rescuing and rehoming a Bull Arab, which would cost significantly less. But, bear in mind that when taking on a rescue dog, it becomes even more important that you’re experienced with this breed as you won’t have been able to implement training and socialization when they were a pup.

The Bull Arab has a long lifespan and can live up to 15 years. This is typical for a dog of their size and activity level. 




If you’re about to get a Bull Arab you’ll want the reassurance of knowing your dog is covered for any unexpected health issues. Check out the best pet insurance plans - it’s quick and easy to browse and compare top providers. 



purpose Purpose
Wild Pig Hunting
history Date of Origin
1970s
ancestry Ancestry
English Bull Terrier, Greyhound, German Shorthaired Pointer, English Pointer

Bull Arab Health

Average Size
Male Bull Arab size stats
Height: 25-27 inches Weight: 70-92 lbs
Female Bull Arab size stats
Height: 24-26 inches Weight: 66-88 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Hip Dysplasia
Minor Concerns
  • Cardiac Disease
Occasional Diagnoses
  • Eye Problems
Occasional Tests
  • OFA
  • Yearly Eye Exam
  • Yearly Physical Examination

Bull Arab Breed History

The Bull Arab dates back to 1972 when it was bred by Mike Hodgens in Australia. He wanted to create a breed that had the power of the English Bull Terrier, the speed and sighting ability of the Greyhound and the scenting and brains of a Pointer. 

It’s believed this breed is half Bull Terrier and a quarter Greyhound. There is some dispute around whether the other quarter is the German Shorthaired Pointer or the English Pointer. Some also believe this breed includes the Bloodhound and that later, even the Mastiff and Great Dane were added in. 

Either way, they quickly became Australia’s top pig hunting dog. In 1981, Hodgens stopped breeding Bull Arabs and by 1989 he had completely stopped breeding dogs. 

This breed has been known to have an aggressive and tenacious nature. For this reason, they’ve been used in police work and in security detail. They have also been used for search and rescue work.

They are not recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Bull Arab Breed Appearance

The Bull Arab is a solid and strong dog with a broad head that’s in proportion with their body, and ears that hang down. As they were bred to pin and hold wild pigs, they have powerful jaws that made this easy for them.

The color of their eyes will depend on the color of their coat. Darker colored dogs will have brown eyes, while lighter colored dogs will have amber eyes. The color of their nose is also dependent on the color of their coat. If, for example, their coat is liver, they’ll have a red nose. 

This breed has a short, harsh coat. They do, however, have an undercoat that’s softer and thicker during the winter months.

Most Bull Arabs are predominantly white with colored patches — which may be brown, tan or black. There’s usually ticking within the white on their bodies. Other popular colors are black, liver and brindle. But, they may also be red, silver or blue.

Eye Color Possibilities
blue Bull Arab eyes
Blue
hazel Bull Arab eyes
Hazel
brown Bull Arab eyes
Brown
amber Bull Arab eyes
Amber
Nose Color Possibilities
blue Bull Arab nose
Blue
black Bull Arab nose
Black
brown Bull Arab nose
Brown
Coat Color Possibilities
brindle Bull Arab coat
Brindle
silver Bull Arab coat
Silver
black Bull Arab coat
Black
brown Bull Arab coat
Brown
red Bull Arab coat
Red
blue Bull Arab coat
Blue
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Bull Arab straight coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Bull Arab Breed Maintenance

The Bull Arab needs little grooming. They’ll just need to be brushed once a week using a slicker brush or a natural bristle brush. Their short undercoat will need to be kept under control, especially when they’re shedding. During this time you may want to brush them a little more often to avoid their hairs covering your home. 

You don’t need to bathe them too often — it’s really only necessary if they roll in something smelly or run through the mud. 

Check and clean their ears weekly because they can trap moisture and dirt. You’ll need to brush their teeth regularly and clip their nails when required. 

The Bull Arab has a lot of energy and stamina. They are part sighthound and part scenthound which means they’ll chase anything they see move and use their nose to follow an interesting trail.

A large backyard with a tall, secure fence will suit them perfectly — you may want to keep them on the leash when you’re out and avoid the dog park, especially if there are much smaller dogs around. They can run for miles, so will require at least an hour's run or hike each day. This breed needs ongoing training so it’s worth planning that into their exercise time too.



Bull Arab health risks

The Bull Arab generally tends to be a healthy breed but, of course, can be prone to some health conditions. The main condition you should be particularly aware of is:

  • Hip Dysplasia 

There’s also a chance of cardiac disease — although this is only a minor concern.  

Although Bull Arabs are quite a healthy breed they are still prone to some health issues. Make sure you are prepared for this by browsing and comparing top pet insurance providers to find the best option for you and your dog. 

Hip Dysplasia 

In cases of hip dysplasia the ball and socket hasn’t formed properly in the hip joint, so it rubs and grinds instead of gliding smoothly. This can happen to dogs at any age and can be present in one or both of their hips. It can be early onset from just 16 weeks or they may get it later in life. There are a number of causes but it can develop because of rapid weight gain or obesity.  

It will be very painful and restrict movement. At first, you may need to look at their diet and weight management. The treatment might also include oral supplements, physiotherapy or surgery. 



Feeding a Bull Arab - what’s the best diet? 

A Bull Arab can be fed a dry food diet — although you could always mix in some wet food too. Make sure that the food you pick is formulated for large breeds with high energy.

Bull Arab puppies should be fed three to four smaller meals a day. Once full-grown adults, that can be reduced to two meals a day. 

This breed can easily gain weight if overfed so keep an eye on their portion sizes, especially if they have had treats throughout the day. 

Managing a dog’s weight can help to prevent hip dysplasia, so large and fast-growing breeds like this need to be fed a diet that helps prevent joint degeneration. 

You’ll want to make sure your Bull Arab is enjoying the best possible diet. Check out further advice from our friends at Dog Food Advisor, who can recommend some of the best dry dog food and the best wet dog food available.


Brushes for Bull Arab
Slicker Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Bull Arab requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Bull Arab Temperament

Unfortunately, the Bull Arab does have some negative stereotypes. Their reputation is often as an aggressive and sometimes dangerous dog that has been known to attack humans. This coupled with their strong hunting instinct is why early — and ongoing — training and socialization is essential. Fail to do this — or train them in the wrong way — and be warned that they could become a threat to both humans and other animals. 

Alongside this they have very high energy and are highly excitable. This means they require a strong and dominant leader that can handle them. They can make a great family companion but aren’t considered suitable for first time dog owners or passive dog owners that want a quiet life.

It’s important to note that when trained properly, this breed can have a very calm and gentle nature.  

The Bull Arab can be a great breed with children but you should always supervise them, especially around younger children. It’s best for them to live in a home with no other pets due to their strong prey drive. 

Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
14 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
60 minutes
activity minutes

Bull Arab Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
2.5 cups
cup per day cost cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.50 - $1.90
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$39.00 - $52.00
food bag monthly cost

Bull Arab Height & Weight

6 Months
Male Bull Arab size stats at six months
Height: 19.0 inches Weight: 42.5 lbs
Female Bull Arab size stats at six months
Height: 18.0 inches Weight: 35.0 lbs
12 Months
Male Bull Arab size stats at 12 months
Height: 23.0 inches Weight: 65.0 lbs
Female Bull Arab size stats at 12 months
Height: 22.0 inches Weight: 57.5 lbs
18 Months
Male Bull Arab size stats at 18 months
Height: 26.0 inches Weight: 81.0 lbs
Female Bull Arab size stats at 18 months
Height: 25.0 inches Weight: 77.0 lbs

Bull Arab Owner Experiences

Brax
3 Years
4 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Very friendly towards people and kids, but slightly aggressive toward unfamiliar dogs. Loyal dog, enjoys car rides, and walks. Very big, as big as our 13 year old girl.
6 years, 3 months ago
Elixir
10 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is very very energetic puppy, lot of temper tantrums if he doesn't get attention, loves to sleep in our bed with us, loves saying hi to everyone on road passing by. P. S he always wants to be outside .
6 years, 3 months ago
Wuffles
8 Months
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
When we went to the lost dog’s home, he was the ONLY puppy! As we intended to come home with a puppy, he was our ONLY choice. He was retrieved by the dog’s home from the council who found him. We paid $500 for him. As it appears that he was lost originally, we now describe him as a rescue dog. When we went on a holiday to New Caledonia, there walking on a lead along the main beach footpath was a dog so similar to him that it looked to be his father. However the man walking him did not speak any language that we understood. Therefore we have wondered how do we live in Melbourne when his nearest relative appears to live on a South Pacific island?
6 years, 2 months ago
Norman
3 Months
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Dog Parks
Swim
Walk
Norman is very gentle and very food motivated. He loves going to the beach/river and is very social with dogs and humans!
5 years, 11 months ago
What a load of crap
3 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Your write up is so incorrect, you need to write a retraction. Before making and publishing your assumptions maybe you should actually talk to Bull Arab owners. There are over 8000 on one rescue site that will tell you differently. I’m surprised as a professional dog business you don’t actually know more about dogs fullstop!
5 years, 9 months ago
Medusa
3 Years
5 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Your site clearly has no real idea about Bull Arabs and you should fix what you say, they are loyal, sociable, funny caring. My Bull Arab fostered 5 kittens and brought them up after their mother died, my grad kids sleep with her,she is loyal, funny, quirky and a gentle giant! Any dog can be nasty its the owner, stop saying this horrible stuff about them, from my Bull Arab to small dogs 3 cats and a host of kids!
5 years, 9 months ago
Buddy
7 Years
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Can you please provide the source where Bull Arabs are killing people??? This site is a bit of a joke! You really need to provide source information rather than hysteria!
5 years, 9 months ago
Tyson
7 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Tyson is a very chilled boy who is my life we rescued him from the dogs home at 12 weeks and his training started immediately now he is my assistance dog and also a therapy dog. we live on a 5 acre property with lots of animals. cows, goats, chickens and turkeys. Tyson loves to look after new born goats and newly hatched chickens. I was very disgusted at the write up of what you think is a Bull Arab. I really think that you should have made some attempt to talk to Bull Arab owners and actually meet a Bull Arab or ten before you spread blatant lies about such a lovable breed. as i write this Tyson is lying at my feet with my chicken ebony and her newly hatched chicks. Tyson also has his own group of human friends obtained in the many stores and supermarkets he has visited with us. he has also helped a nine year old boy get over his fear of dogs, they are the best of friends and the nine year old quite often goes to sleep using Tyson as a pillow.
5 years, 9 months ago
Ziggy
2 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing
Long walks
Running
Dog Parks
Cuddling
Going on drives
the beach
My Bull Arab Ziggy is the most gentle, kind and sweetest dog I’ve ever had or met. This is falsified information that is spread by uninformed people who do not know the breed. They are friendly, easily trainable, low energy, cuddly dogs and each bull Arab Ive ever met is GREAT with children, adults and other animals. They are NOT aggressive or harmful and SHOULD NOT be treated like they are.
5 years, 9 months ago
FRANK THE FOUNDER OF BULL ARAB RESCUE
9 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Dogs forever
Walking
Run
Sleeping
Fun
Beach
Cuddling
Life
I am the founder of BULL ARAB RESCUE and I think you need to get your facts straight before proclaiming this breed as you have done in your writing! Many Bull Arabs in Australia are actually assistance dogs for people with PTSD including ex army and myself. To proclaim they are aggressive and dangerous is an absolute joke... Thousands upon thousands of people will tell you this but yet you think you are right? Any dog or and human can be dangerous... retract your statement regarding bull arabs or I will personally have my lawyer contact you for defamation. We try to save this amazing breed .... you have no experience and put it down.... retract your statement or we will sue you for fake and nonsense advice.
5 years, 9 months ago
Rocky
18 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
My son bought this dog home as it was meant to be his dog . Well we all know how this goes I was outside at night nursing him holding him cuddling him . We have an unbreakable bond live him to bits . The most affectionate dog been to puppy school and easily trained loves socialising . He's my shadow follows me around everywhere . This breed of dogs are definitely not aggressive.
5 years, 9 months ago
Bruce
3 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Pig Hunting and a family dog
Bruce was the most amazing dog you would ever have he loved kids and was very protective over them they would crawl on him and push him around and he wouldn't care he would rather lick you to death then bit he has never and i mean never been an aggressive dog, he is a pig hunting dog but i would 100% trust him with kids
5 years, 9 months ago
Maggie
12 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
My wife, children and I have had bull Arabs for ever and have never seen any aggressive behavior. Our children would wrestle on the ground with our dogs. They would even sleep in the dogs kennel with them. I can't believe that anyone would ever think that a bull Arab was aggressive.
5 years, 8 months ago
Reggie
3 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He has a very unique personality. Sooky for affection, but still very head strong. He isn't as easy to train as my Rottweiler or Black Lab were.. but he seems to pick up on things quickly. Ie: did one wee on the tiles, took him out on the grass immediately. He now goes to the door when he has to go Showed him his bed inside once.. when he comes in he goes straight to his bed. This breed has a lot of common sense.. but also has a bit of an "I do what I want" attitude. A lot of positive reinforcement and direction needed.. but once he picks it up he doesnt forget it. We will be doing 5kms every day training distance when he is old enough. I needed a strong dog that will be my mate and protect me when I'm alone in rural areas Just to top it off.. this pup is turning into one of the best looking dogs Ive ever seen.
5 years, 7 months ago
Gracie
4 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
Sleeping
Camping
Swim
Fetch
snuggling
The person who wrote this obviously has had no experience with this breed at all. Suggest more research, and a rewrite! Have had the opposite experience to what this write up is describing. My very first dog was a Bull Arab called Kong 20 years ago and fell in love with the breed as they are affectionate, loving, loyal, active, goofy, protective, quiet and will only bark if something is there, obedient, intelligent, easy to train as they are food driven, love to sleep, giant lap dogs, love to be patted, love to play, kind hearted and gentle towards other creatures big and small. Because of these amazing qualities, I will never own anything else and have 2 Bull Arabs now. A male called Samson and a female called Gracie. Downfalls are: they shed a lot for short hair dogs, tend to have skin issues and you have to constantly deal with ignorant/uneducated people that judge your dog on its appearance and breed. It is always interesting going for a walk at the local markets with my father who has a cat that walks on a leash. At first people see my dogs and I see their faces/reactions. Then they spot the small cat happily walking along side these so called aggressive/dangerous dogs (who are actually afraid of cats) and there whole demeanour changes. Most stop to chat and give the cat and the dogs a pat. The most aggressive and dangerous dogs that we see on walks are small dogs such as the white fluffy maltese and Chihuahua‘s. These dog owners need to stop saying how cute or funny it is when their dog aggressively barks and snarl at a larger dog. It’s not funny or cute that these people do not obedience train or control these dogs. Would it be funny or cute if a large breed acts like that?
5 years, 7 months ago
Georgie
4 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
the beach
Races
Walks
Sleeping
Cuddles
I had never actually heard of the Bull Arab breed until i met George. He was 4 when i rescued him from a rather harsh situation. I have had him for 6 months now. Hes incredible! Considering i met him at 4 years old and the bond we formed almost immediately hes doing so well now. I met him at a friends house where i saw he was completely neglected and ignored, unfed and unsocialised. I spent a week at this house and during my time i walked him, bought stocks of food for him, played with him, id say trained him but there was nothing to it, by that i mean he almost did anything I would say or signal straight away then a day later the signals were listened to and his response was automatic. Hes very much his owners in the sense he doesnt really pay much attention to anyone else around us or even when im not home he doesnt do much other than sleep. I live with my nan as her carer, and hes very respectful of her and her commands if hes laying in a doorway etc. effortless to train, awesome fun to take out for runs and swims, loves racing along the beach off lead yet as soon as hes called immediately hes back in front of me sitting awaiting his lead. His hair is short and gets on everything but thankfully a good vaccum makes that a five minute daily thing. After i was called by my friend a month or so after my week with him as i made her promise (living 9 hours drive away from this person) but i made her swear if he was going to be taken to the pound and surrendered she was to call me to take him. I wanted to when i met him but as her brother had dumped him there and took off she couldnt let me straight away but i didnt hesitate. Went and picked him up, hit the vet then next stop was his new home. Hes much happier healthier and all round the best dog ive ever met! Only negative is at his age its difficult to get things like his socialisation improved. Hes extremely aggresive to any other dog that comes in a three metre radius of him. Foams at the mouth and takes all my strength to hold at bay. For that reason our walks and runs are kept to later hours of the day or at night, where other dog encounters are unlikely. Other than that the hair everywhere and his susceptibility to skin issues and more commonly ear mites (had them when i met him and need to give him a monthly dose of tick flea and mites prevention to keep that under control) mites are microscopic problems and while ear mites are located in the ears they also cause them to itch their faces, and their bodies too. He scratched like he had fleas a lot prior to finding out this info and he didnt have fleas obviously, and now since prevention treatment is much less scratchy.
5 years, 4 months ago
Sarge
10 Months
1 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is an affectionate dog but is also aggressive and has done nothing but bite feet and hands since we got him. (Original owner wasn't me). He has now left but was going to send him to the RSPCA so I have taken over or he would have been put to sleep. I love him dearly but to be quite honest I'm scared of him and locked myself in the laundry because he kept trying to bite me. I think he is scared as the original owner kicked and punched him. I don't agree that any breed of dog is aggressive. I believe all dogs are individuals and they have all had their own situations which either makes them gentle or aggressive. I want nothing but to love this dog but I feel the damage has been done and really don't have any more answers and if you have any to reverse his mistrust and fear I would greatly appreciate them,
5 years, 3 months ago
Drift
1 Year
1 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Reading these comments... I think we have the classic problem where there is more than one type of Bull Arab being sold here in Australia. The breed emerged less from the founder Mr Hodgens who is known as a bit of a "breed anything tough looking" verging-on-a-puppy-mill sort of guy and more from the hard work of pig hunters in North Queensland who used the dogs and started their own lines. The handful of actual breeders for this dog have this concern about different BA versions as well, saying there are a tonne of backyard breeders selling pig dog crosses as "Bull Arabs" because the name gets big bucks (or used to before every idiot with a V8 ute started breeding them). Lots of people here are actually dealing with very different versions of the dog. Generally your legitimate hunting lines are high energy, confident (failing to approach a boar will disqualify them from being considered a Bull Arab in some breeder's eyes), calm and incredibly trainable. Your more backyard-originating BA's are the couch potatoes and a real mixed bag, they can be terrible guard dogs or excellent guard dogs, gentle or rude without training, they are also more prone to aggression and fear due to poor breeding practices. This is a quote from the Australian Bull Arab Registry Inc responding to the question: won't registering the breed create negative media attention if there is a dog attack involving a Bull Arab? ---- "Supposed "Bull Arabs" who in reality are any cross bred dog that looks like it or have been bred as a hunting dog are being blamed for attacks already. These dogs are also being counted as Bull Arabs when they turn up in shelters and pounds. The only way the Bull Arab can be seperated from the average cross bred dog is to legitimize them in a registry." ---- To the girl with SARGE, I think you need some major obedience work and double the exercise he gets, just to see if it helps. If you can't do this then look at rehoming him - that dog should not be left with those bad manners, it is dangerous for him. To FRANK THE FOUNDER OF BULL ARAB RESCUE let us know how the court case goes - I want to hear how hard the Judge kicks you in the arse on your way out the door for wasting his time, if you even get that far!
5 years, 3 months ago
Carmello
11 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking and playing
In my experience, the misinformation on bull Arabs being ‘Dangerous’ is laughable. My big boy is the sweetest dog I have ever met. He is great around other dogs and absolutely loves meeting new people. He is such a baby and loves wholeheartedly.
3 years, 5 months ago
Ollie
6 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
pats
Walk
Running
Playing with our other dog
My Bull Arab has been the opposite of this article. He gets along with my other dog and my cat. Loves chasing me and my other dog, but also loves being chased. He’s incredibly friendly and loves other people and other dogs. Happy to wrestle, he will play bite, but he will never hurt us, and always stops when my other dog yelps, and has never drawn blood. Please do research when writing articles because Bull Arabs are not always argues sovereignty and are great in families.
4 years, 8 months ago
Junior and Jeff
6 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing, trying to train them
Swimming.
Cuddling on the lounge
Watching their interactions with other dogs
I have 2 excitable puppies who listen to me but no one else. Can’t seem to stop them jumping on people. Both very sooky. Just love them. I have bought them a clam shell pool to swim as Jeff loves to snorkel! Found this out when he destroyed my fish pond and ate my fish! I have not found my puppies to be aggressive at all.
4 years, 8 months ago
Missy
8 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Snuggling in bed
Walks on the property
playing with our other two dogs
Running on the beach
Missy was rescued by my daughter. She was meant to be a pigging dog but was too kind and playful. The owner wanted to shoot her. The first day she Arrived, she greeted me with offering me to shake her paw. Since we had her, we never looked back. She is the kindest, most loving and caring dog. She loves coming for car rides, runs on the beach, runs on our 86 acres, chases kangaroos but never hurts them. She plays with my little dog, rolls him around but never hurts him. When other dogs come to the property, she is the peacemaker and welcoming committee and she calms my male belgian shepherd who is more territorial with other dogs. She is kind and loving to people and children. She doesn’t like baths but loves the calm ocean. She is a great friend a much loved member of the family.
4 years, 8 months ago
Chloe
14 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing Ball
Cuddles
Chloe is a princess. She guards the house and loves playing with her sisters. Her younger sister and her are inseparable and Chloe is often laying on her giving her a hug.
4 years, 7 months ago
Leo
2 Years
4 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Hisplay and protectiveness
Very friendly ..know how to react with small dog bog dog and even humans ..very protective
4 years, 7 months ago
Kato
6 Months
6 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Car rides
Hide & Seek
Walking
Kato loves being inside in his special spot by the window, he enjoys playing hide and seek with my boys, is highly protective of us all and we do find if my boys are in a scuffle we need to remove kato fast as he will try to pull them apart and it’s not something we want to encourage for him or that he should see and be upset by. He is very obedient when it comes to food, he will wait until he is given the ok. barely barks unless he is telling us someone he doesn’t know is near the house not just walking past. He has never been a jumper, unless he hasn’t seen me in over 24 hours and cannot contain his joy at seeing me home. First time owning a bull arab, but will not be our last.
4 years, 7 months ago
Brax
5 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Playing
Car rides
Driving
running,
Hugs
Hes very very sweet to humans and is very affectionate, but he takes a while to get used to other animals and has attacked other dogs randomly.
4 years, 7 months ago
Mack
1 Year
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
very loyal and very affectionate, in his mind he is a lapdog, a heavy 40kg lapdog, very obedient, will sit, drop, wait on command, easy to toilet train, " shakes" will give you paws upon command, walks easily on a lead, sits and waits for food, leash and collar to go on. not much of guard dog - but a beautiful nature! best recommendation, train/socialise early as a puppy and you will be well rewarded
4 years, 6 months ago
Bella
5 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Everything
The best dog I have ever owned I totally agree with everything stated above except her fur falls out 24/7 no difference summer or winter she sheds all day everyday.
4 years, 5 months ago
Rollo
16 Months
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Our first Bull Arab and we are delighted with him. Agree with wag walking that he needs a strong coach but easy to train and picks up direction easily. Loves and needs exercise twice a day and sulks if we miss a walk. Plays happily with one other dog in the park but if there are 2 dogs present then his hunting instincts come out and he will pull the smaller dog to the ground but is never aggressive, in fact we are yet to witness aggression in him. We have noticed a sign and would like to know if anyone has also experienced their dogs legs trembling during and after exercise. No pain or distress associated with this at all. Loves his comfort and desperately tries to sleep on our bed but at 41kgs...no chance.
4 years, 5 months ago
Lilly
10 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She was a hunting dog now retired and our daughter said she would be good for me whilst i were going through chemo. Lill adopted me instantly she knew me from previous trips even then she would look for me, she justs wants to be with people and happy to do what people do but keeps her eye on me. LOVES the car, 4 year old from next door comes across the paddock to pat lill no problems at all. our 4 year old grandson gave her hell whilst he was growing up. Only barked twice both times black snake at back door in all a very very missunderstood dog GREAT family dog.
4 years, 4 months ago
Billie-Girl
15 Months
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Running, camping, walking
No words?! Most loyal dogs we have ever owned. Non hunters and our boy was lovingly rescued.
4 years, 4 months ago
Pepper
6 Years
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Camping
Walk
Run
4wd
Pepper is the best dog I have ever owned. The description on the page about the bull Arab being aggresive towards humans is so far from the truth it isnt even funny. Pepper is the calmest friendliest dog I know. Everyone that meets her loves her. She was very easy to train and is super well behaved. She spends most of the day sleeping on her couch or sunbathing in the sun. She also loves going for a walk and run at the park. Also very quiet dogs so when they bark you know there is something wrong
4 years, 4 months ago
Zeus
4 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Playing together
Dog Parks
Zeus is full of energy and very excitable but is very gentle and calm with my 91 year old grandmother. Zeus is extremely friendly with people and other dogs, he's never been aggressive in his life. Zeus's only problem is that he doesn't order that because of his size that others can be afraid of him and that he can't be a lapdog.
4 years, 3 months ago
Chad
9 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Chad is a rescue dog who is the kindest sweetest most gentle boy ever. Great with other dogs, cats and kids . I run an animal rescue and have re homes hundreds of bull arabs and rarely meet any other then lovely dogs. I have never had to have one PTS for aggressive behaviour. This generalisation is unwarranted and untrue
4 years, 3 months ago
Sam Billy
8 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Only had him for a three weeks and he's learning slowly
4 years, 3 months ago
Sunny
9 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking in the forest
He is the calmest most non aggressive dog I have ever had. If I had this dog first I would think I was the worlds best dog trainer. The description of the breeds temperament on this page is odd. I’ve been around many bull arabs for years and none have been aggressive. They are all chill, trainable and loyal dogs.
4 years, 3 months ago
Milo
3 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Waks
socialising with family dogs
Milo was given to the pound at about 8 months old after not being given attention, he then was at the pound for about another 8 months. He’s a beautiful and loving dog. Loves my wife and I, my parents and their dogs. Given his history, his temperament is complicated. He’s a highly intelligent and confident dog, but hard to gain the full trust of. He’s tends to be skeptical of anything he’s unsure of. Despite all this, after a couple months of being with us he has settled in great and is a really happy and confident dog. Training has been extremely easy because we socialise with him a lot. For example, the vast majority of his commands he managed to pick up without formal training. He tends to listen to us speak, even to each other and pick up words. Likewise with actions and routines. My recommendation would be if you’re considering a Bull Arab that has been sheltered for long periods at a young age, make sure you’re willing to spend the time being cautious and patient with them. I had previously had a Bull Arab from puppy and it was a very easy experience. I would say, despite my first Bull Arab (from a store) being extremely tame, safe and not requiring strong leadership, I can’t say the same for my second. He’s a beautiful loving dog but not for people who aren’t willing really put the effort it.
4 years, 2 months ago
Maisy
6 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Frisbee
Explore the woods
Finding toys
Play
Fearless nature, great companion and watchdog. Cuddles up at night but will put herself between me and strangers every time. Easy to control with regular training.
4 years, 1 month ago
Koda
7 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Driving in the car
Relaxing and cuddling
Sleeping
Running
I Have had Koda for almost 8 years now I got her when she was 6 months old and a rescue dog I can not tell you how kind and relaxed and gentle she is! Such an amazing dog she is not aggressive at all but she is protective and will show it to people that walk aggressively towards my self or my girlfriend. She is a great guard dog at home. She is great with kids very gentle she understands that she can not jump on kids. She has her toys and she knows whats hers and what is not! Haha. I highly recommend this breed as they are great family dogs and very easy going!
4 years, 1 month ago
Junior and Jeff
18 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I have 2 bull arabs, brothers, Junior and Jeff. They are the most sookiest dogs I have ever owned. I was given them as a gift and have loved every minute of training them. Junior is very wilful where as Jeff aims to please. Sadly on our first walk outside the yard we were all attacked by a blue staffie and I have trouble controlling them on the lead when they see another dog, but another dog in my yard and it’s playtime. My boys still think they can lay on me to watch tv but it’s getting hard when they are over 40kgs now. Would recommend this breed to everyone.
4 years, 1 month ago
Chucky
3 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
exercise
Walks
Makes us laugh cry stress frustrating BUT his puppy dog stares melt our hearts. We rescued him. Ppl used him for dog fighting but chose to abandon him left in a Park. He has few issues unsure if these are his nature or because of being treated so badly abused
4 years ago
Minnie
21 Months
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Jogging
Snoozing
playing in the yard
Cuddles
Minnie is a highly affectionate cross breed, we believe with Staffy. She can be extremely lazy if we're busy working, but is also highly energetic when on walks, at the dog park or playing with her bestie. She will defend her territory, but is very good with children, other dogs and puppies if on neutral territory. Perfect girl! Very trainable if food is involved. Likes to hunt lizards, flies and moths.
4 years ago
Jax
14 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
A bull arab x catahoula at 51kg and a healthy weight, loves attention and being around the family members. Gets excited when he meets new people when on walks. No the most friendliest of dogs to other animals but he is still a work in progress. He learns quick and is the biggest and strongest dog I have ever owned (including rotties) but is by far the easiest to walk, always on a loose lead. Love him dearly and he will be the last dog we own as we are pushing 50 and he still has upto 14 years left in him. Looking forward to it with this affectionate breed.
3 years, 11 months ago
Astra
13 Months
6 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
We rescued astra as a puppy and i think she knows it because she is the sweetest most loving dog in the whole world .she sleeps with someone every night and has to be cuddling you, if you sit down astra will be cuddled up to you, we have another dog that she adores and cuddles up to him as well.she no concept of personal space when it comes to cuddles . She is pretty energetic but gets tired after a while . She is really good on the lead when she is by herself but gets really excited when she sees another dog . She likes to learn tricks when it involves food. Absolutely no signs of aggression to humans or other dogs,but has a tendency to get skinks,we also have 2 rabbits and has shown no signs of aggression to them ether. Astra loves to play with us ,our other dog and any dog or human she meets. She is the perfect fit for our family and we love her so, so much
3 years, 11 months ago
Roy
7 Years
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
training
swimming
My bull arab is a gentle dog. He has never threatened any animal and is naturally wary of snakes and lizards. His mother was used for hunting and Roy does like to use his nose to find things, but never shows aggression to the things he finds (loves rolling in dead animals though!). I ensured he underwent training every day for the first year or two of his life. He has hour long walks everyday and I think that has helped his intelligent mind learn what is acceptable. If I was to find a fault, he developed arthritis early which occasionally gives him grief, but we are so far managing it so he can carry out his favourite activities- running and swimming. Would 100% recommend this breed for owners who allow their dogs to be dogs and are particular about their dogs training
3 years, 11 months ago
Baxter
2 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Amazing temperament. Not aggressive at all , good natured and easy to train (we live in australia )
3 years, 10 months ago
Vera
8 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Vera is a young 8 month old Bull arab X staffy. So far she has been really good. Loves children and other adults would lick you to death more then anything. She's so full of energy I can never wear her out. Very easy to train and will be a fantastic family pet. She's very loyal and affectionate and loves her cuddles.
3 years, 10 months ago
Miss
10 Years
6 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
This article is a lot of garbage when it talks about aggression. Bull Arabs are not human aggressive at all. They are not meant to be human aggressive at all. They are meant to do their job and be great human companions. Who ever wrote this article needs to do better research before tarnishing such a wonderful breed.
3 years, 10 months ago
Torben
15 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Dog Parks
Car rides
visiting friend
Walking
Rescue pup, got him at 8 weeks, he is quiet, rarely barks even when people knock on the door, fun loving, intelligent and strong willed, has always been socialized and has his regular group of friends at the local dog park. Likes to give all the humans kisses as well as the dogs, likes to teach new dogs how to play at the dog park and seems to understand their moods. If they are scared, he plays gently until they have more confidence, some dogs he plays real rough with but if there is a Yelp he will disengage immediately. Will walk away if other dog / cat / animal is aggressive towards him. Will fight back if attacked unless it is a small breed which he seems to find amusing and will sometimes tease them into to trying to chase him. After a bit of exercise he is happy to curl up on the lounge or bed and sloth around, not food driven, generally only eats when he feels hungry, even if he get high quality human food e.g. chicken breast in his bowl, he won’t eat I straight away unless he feels hungry. My dog doesn’t display any possessive or aggressive behavior towards humans or other animals and generally listens to his owner (unless it time to leave the dog park, then he has selective hearing). One of the best dogs I have ever had...
3 years, 8 months ago
Magy
5 Months
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
My husband and I are grey nomads. Magy has only know caravan life. Magy loves going to collect bait, yabbies, before a day fishing on the boat. We fish for a while then find a shady sanding private beach in an estuary for a run play and swim. She has travelled to lots of different places and experiences. She loves people, children and other dogs. She is asleep on my feet on the bed in the caravan as I write this. The woman who wrote this causes problems for people looking to get a bull Arab pup. When we told our daughter of our new family addition she had read this woman's uneducated rant. Our daughter rang to ask us not to get a bull Arab as she was frightened for our granddaughter's safety. Our granddaughter comes to visit and Magy is the first to get hugs. Our granddaughter is 2 1/2. I do think people should be able to have opinions BUT make sure it is known as just that an opinion. There does not seems to be a lot of fact involved. If you look at any breed there may be instances of attacks. Poor ownership is usually the culprit.
3 years, 8 months ago
Juno
3 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Chase
Walk
Bath time
Swim
Tug-of-war
Cuddles
We rescued Juno from the pound when she was young. As a rescue, we don’t know what her background is and she has shown aggression to other dogs. However, we since have come to understand she is just anxious, especially on the leash. Once she is comfortable with dogs she is a pushover. Rolls around in the floor with a five month old puppy and let’s the puppy bat her face. Used to let my bossy cat (RIP) chew her face 😂 But aggressive towards humans? Only if they are coming into the house or are unknown males coming near her human mum. Juno is a total cuddle bug and just wants hugs and smooches. I’ve never had a dog love being cuddled so much. She loves people and her bum never stops wiggling. Juno loves to play fetch and tug of war. Bull Arabs have a natural prey drive so you need to let them indulge this. Lots of tug of war and chasing and they are very happy. Juno also loves her teddy bears. Our house looks like a toy store. Their natural prey drive does not mean aggression. I think humans and poor ownership are to blame for that one. If you can appeal to this dogs prey drive and spend the time on training, you will have the best friend ever.
3 years, 7 months ago
Rosie
8 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Our Bull Arab is a cuddle bug who just adores everyone she meets. She is very intelligent and sensitive, but can be quite stubborn too. Very food motivated which helps with training. Definitely the most loving and affectionate dog I’ve had, absolutely adores our kids.
3 years, 1 month ago
stella
13 Months
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Running
Beach
Explore the woods
Races
Playdate
we live in northern qld so stella will do all of her exercises before 7 am or after 6 pm and she will sleep and relax in the aircon until it’s time for her next walk and loves attention
2 years, 10 months ago
nitro
3 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
training
Good dog, very friendly with people, hates other male dogs and will attack immediately, so very hard to walk
2 years, 10 months ago
Tui after NZ native pigeon
5 Years
5 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Running
Family time
water
Attentive, Loyal, great with family and friends never has showed aggression towards humans, recently mauled a small dog Tui got out a open gate was left open, small dog required surgery but recovered wounds quite remarkable, traumatic for owner, this is the first time this has happened we are even more vigilant from that expensive
2 years, 6 months ago
Floyd
6 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Useless as a guard dog. Talking to other owners they agree they are too friendly. Almost like a lab. V family friendly. Loves other dogs.
2 years, 6 months ago
Porsha
4 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
The person that I bought her from lied about her age..she was just in 4 weeks and not properly able to consume solids. I had to give her formula and introduced solids gradually. The idiot that let her brave her mother this early shouldn’t be allowed to breed!. If I hadn’t been experienced in this area she would have died. Because of her being so young I fed her and went against the rules and allowed her to sleep in my bed (only because I was exhausted and was easier to monitor her ). She has become soooooo attached to me but in a healthy way - she’s is my mirror and feels what I feel. She’s so loving towards my daughter Ave our dachshund puppy ‘Kevin’…. So gentle when playing although if Kevin is sleeping under the blanket I have to make sure he doesn’t get sat on!. Fiercely protective of our home which is a comfort being a single parent. She will attack a person - if they cross boundaries if the person is invited in she investigates and is Sweet and mellow. If someone shows up but isn’t invited in she shows her other side. I have walked her millions of times and she’s perfect on leash , but on some occasions if a man is jogging and going past us - she has tried to bite them even going for face or if a man walking past with a hat on or looking dodgy she growls and without warning will jump at them With intent. However loves all children and puppies. Extremely affectionate and 100% princess - loves bubble baths and getting her hair blow dried and doesn’t say ‘No’ to a facial when my daughter has her friends stay over - she definitely loves a slumber party with the girls!.
2 years, 1 month ago
Animal Expert Question Icon
Question - My pet
Question

My question is, I have a wolfhound cross bull arab pup she wines a lot and im worried there may be something wrong with her are you able to confirm why they may wine

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Question - Behavior
Question

We adopted a 5-6yr old bull Arab x collie a month ago. She has never been in a home/family environment before & has spent long periods of time in the pound. Definitely shows signs of abuse, such as high anxiety & stress. What can we do to help her adjust to home life? She is already very protective particularly when on lead. Is very unsure of other dogs (I think due to pound and breed). She is very clingy and does not like to be left alone. She’s highly intelligent and responsive, so we want to make sure we are doing right by her & help mend some pound behaviour. Any tips or tricks 😊

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Question - Other
Question

Is it rare to have a reverse brindle Neo Mastiff or Bull Arab? Also, is it rare to have a fawn brindle neo mastiff or bull arab? Thanks

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