The Bull Arab dog is a breed of pig hunting dog. It was originally bred for feral pig hunting purposes, being specially developed to locate pigs, pull them to the ground, and hold them by the ear. It is also known as BA, Australian Pig Dog, Aussie Pig dog or simply as Arab.
The Bull Arab dog breed was developed in the 1970s by crossing the Bull Terrier, German Shorthaired Pointer and Greyhound. Although, it has been variously described as a cross of the Pointer and a terrier, the Great Dane and a mastiff, or the Doberman and Bull Terrier.
The breed has an acute sense of smell an is able to locate feral pigs, as far as 6 kilometers away. It was 50% Bull Terrier. Later, the Bloodhound and English Pointer were added in and some bloodlines have also added in Mastiff.
Due to restrictions on rental housing agreements in Queensland that prohibit larger sized dog breeds, many large breeds of dogs including Bull Arabs are often abandoned in that state. RSPCA Australia also attributes this to a perceived rise in pig hunting, with hunters not desexing their animals, resulting in litters often being dumped.[1]
Currently the breed is not recognized by any kennel club.
Bull Arab Dog Characteristics
The Bull Arab dog is symmetrical and well-built all over. Their head and muzzle are strong and powerful, moderate in length in proportion to the face.
Their eyes are bright, and the color of the eyes depends on the coat color. Their teeth meet in a level bite. The full drop ears are moderate in size. The strong neck is slightly arched, moderate in length.
Chest of the Bull Arab dogs is not too big, nor too shallow. The strong, straight back is in proportion to the height and is not too long, not too short.
The muscular hindquarters are straight when viewed from behind, and well angled when viewed from the side. The oval feet are close knit with arched toes.
The tail of the Bull Arab dog is thick at the base and tapering to a point, and the tail’s length is in proportion to the body.
Their coat is smooth and short. There may be a soft undercoat in colder weather. There is no feathering on the tail or legs and the dog has no double coat appearance.
In case of coloration, most dogs are predominantly white with patches of colors, often with ticking on their white patches. Common coat coloration include liver, black, buckskin, red, silver, blue, brindle and tan.
The Bull Arab dogs are large in size. Average body height of the mature dog is between 25 and 27 inches at the withers for males, and between 24 and 26 inches for the females. Average body weight of the mature animal is between 30 and 50 kg.
Temperament
The Bull Arab dogs have a calm temperament. They are highly intelligent, and are easily trainable. They are known for their loyalty and their love of people.
The breed has also a reputation for aggression, which according to RSPCA Australia is due to the media and public perception. Attacks on people in several states of Australia have been attributed to the breed, although according to the Mackay Regional Council proportionally in no greater numbers than other dog breeds.
Attacks on livestock including the killing of a number of sheep and other animals have been attributed to Bull Arabs that had escaped their owners and/or confinement. It has been stated that there is a little hard data to support the breed’s reputation for aggression and the perception problems are caused by the people who own the dogs and a lack of socialization.
The breed is cited as being used for companion and therapy animals.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Bull Arab dog breed is between 12 and 15 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Bull Arab dogs are large in size, and they are very active. So, their diet should be formulated for a large sized breed with high exercise needs. You can consult with a vet in your area for better feeding recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Bull Arab dogs. They should be taken on long walks daily, when they are not working. They have great stamina and need plenty of exercise.
The Bull Arab dogs generally do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard.
The short, harsh coat of the Bull Arab dog is easy to groom. Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. The breed is an average shedder.
Health
The Bull Arab dogs are generally healthy. There are no known health problems of this dog breed. Although, you should always keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Bull Arab |
| Other Names | Also known as BA, Australian Pig Dog, Aussie Pig dog or simply as Arab |
| Breed Size | Large |
| Height | Between 25 and 27 inches at the withers for males, and between 24 and 26 inches for the females |
| Weight | Between 30 and 50 kg |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Bicolor or flecked white with black, liver or tan |
| Lifespan | Between 12 and 15 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | Australia |
I inherited a Bull Arab who had been badly mistreated. Once he realized that love and kindness was on offer, he became a most loyal and personally protective dog. Yes, he can find the pigs on our property with ease. I enjoyed your brief but very informative description of the bred. Thank you