The Miniature Bull Terrier dates back to the early 19th century. Bulldogs were mated with the now extinct White English Terrier and produced the "Bull and Terrier," later known as the Bull Terrier. There are some who say that the Black and Tan played a part in the dogs creation as well. The original offshoot of the cross was a rather small dog that was then crossed again, this time with the Spanish Pointer, which increased the size.

There were Toys that weighed from four to seven pounds, medium sized dogs that weighed fifteen and sixteen pounds, as well as the more usual sort resembling the full sized Bull Terrier of today. They came in a variety of colors, some black-patched, a few blue, and others pure white. The tiny white ones were known as Coverwood Terriers after England's kennel of that name.

The Toys were exhibited abroad up to about 1914, but there was little response from the fanciers because their type was poor. Dogs of medium or miniature size fared better.

The Miniature Bull Terrier became eligible to be shown in the Miscellaneous Class in 1963, and was accepted as a breed in 1991.

They should be 10 to 14 inches tall, and their weight should be proportionate to height. Their coat should be short, flat and harsh with a fine gloss. For whites, they must be pure white. For colored, any color (other than white) can be predominate.

Both parents should have OFA certificates (patellas) and be cardiac-clear for heart disease and screened every year (by urine test and ultrasound) for kidney disease. In addition, because of inherited deafness problems, each Bull Terrier puppy should come with an individual BAER printout showing normal bilateral hearing (hearing in both ears).

Also ask about low thyroid, seizures, allergies, and skin conditions in the lines. White coats are sensitive to sunburn; provide shade when outdoors for long periods.