Bull Terrier vs Portuguese Pointer

Bull Terrier vs Portuguese Pointer: full comparison

Key differences at a glance

• The Portuguese Pointer has noticeably higher trainability than the Bull Terrier.

Size and living space

The Bull Terrier is a mid-sized breed that settles into most homes, although a yard makes life easier. By comparison, the Portuguese Pointer is a mid-sized breed that settles into most homes, although a yard makes life easier. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Bull Terrier is a true athlete that needs intense daily exercise and a job to do, or it will get restless. The Portuguese Pointer is a true athlete that needs intense daily exercise and a job to do, or it will get restless. Their exercise needs are broadly the same, so this is unlikely to be a deciding factor.

Grooming and shedding

The Bull Terrier is very easy to groom — an occasional brush is all it takes and sheds a moderate amount, with heavier seasonal moults. The Portuguese Pointer needs only light grooming, a brush once or twice a week and sheds a moderate amount, with heavier seasonal moults. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The Bull Terrier needs a bit of persistence but comes along with consistency, gives voice moderately, typically when something warrants it and suits families with children particularly well. The Portuguese Pointer learns quickly and enjoys the training process, gives voice moderately, typically when something warrants it and suits families with children particularly well. On guarding instinct, Bull Terrier will let you know someone is at the door without being aggressive, whereas Portuguese Pointer will let you know someone is at the door without being aggressive.

Which is better for…

• For apartment or apartment living, Bull Terrier and Portuguese Pointer are an even match — either can work well.
• For families with young children, Bull Terrier and Portuguese Pointer are an even match — either can work well.
• For first-time dog owners, Portuguese Pointer has the edge, as it is easier to train and more forgiving of beginner mistakes.
• For being left alone during the workday, Bull Terrier has the edge, coping better with independence and being quieter when unsupervised.
• For allergy sufferers, Bull Terrier and Portuguese Pointer are an even match — either can work well.

Which should you choose?

Choose the Bull Terrier if you prefer lower grooming upkeep.

Choose the Portuguese Pointer if you want an easier dog to train or you want a longer-lived breed.

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