The English Bull Terrier

Love him or hate him, the English bull terrier is a force to be reckoned with. He might not be as big as some of the other breeds, but he could match any of them in strength and sheer muscular power. For this reason, it is vitally important that the dog's owner shows him who is in control. There have been too many reports in recent years of attacks from this type of terrier, not just on other dogs, but on humans too.

A strong specially-designed harness and lead set is absolutely essential. Preferably one made of leather. This should prevent the dog lunging forward and causing stress to the owner. Stress is so easily conveyed down the lead and the stressed dog can quickly become the unstable dog, likely to go crazy when he meets other dogs he doesn't like.

English Bull Terriers are highly intelligent dogs and they only have to sense the nervousness of the person walking them to pick up on that feeling. A state of calm assertiveness is called for in both human and dog.

Cesar Millan, who describes himself as a dog whisperer, stresses the importance of the handler taking control when the dog shows dominance.  There are two main reasons for dominance, he maintains.  One is territorial the other is nervousness. The thing to do then is for handlers to put themselves into the position of pack leader.  That way, the dog will get the message very quickly and submit.

And how is that done? Simple: by taking control, making the dog sit and stay calm for a few minutes before carrying on.  The more often the dog demonstrates aggression, the more often the handler must show who's boss.

Mr Millan's techniques – criticised by some trainers as being controversial - are demonstrated regularly on television.

Handled assertively and lovingly, the English Bull Terrier will come into his own. And although the breed itself is relatively modern (having arisen from a bulldog/terrier cross in the 19th century), dogs looking very similar to these were kept in Ancient Egypt. Archaeological evidence shows that many of them were mummified and buried with their owners. Sculptures and paintings tell us that the pharaohs liked their hunting dogs. They would have been more working companions, than pets.

The first recorded domestication of dogs was believed to have been in Persia and North America. They would have been expected to fight and kill snakes, although it is suggested in some circles that they were also used for hunting, herding and protecting their masters. General Patton, the US Army officer (1885-1945) was devoted to his English bull terrier. He named the dog Willy (after William the Conqueror).

Probably the most famous of all English bull terriers in fiction is Bullseye, the companion of Bill Sykes in Charles Dickens' novel Oliver Twist. Despite the scoundrel's appaling treatment and blatant abuse of his dog, the unfortunate animal remained loyal to his master to the end.

Other bull terriers featured in fiction include Bodger, the Bull Terrier in The Incredible Journey, which was later made into a very successful film and Harry, the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion.