Bull Arab
Also known as Australian Pig Dog · Bullarab
Australia, Bull and bully breeds
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 61–69 cm
- Weight
- 30–42 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Powerful
- Loyal
- Driven
- Athletic
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Bull Arab is a large, athletic Australian dog developed in Queensland in the 1970s for hunting feral pigs. Its foundation was roughly half Bull Terrier with Greyhound and German Shorthaired Pointer, and some lines later added Bloodhound, Mastiff or Great Dane. It is usually white with darker patches and has a short coat.
Size
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 61–69 cm
- Adult weight
- 30–42 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
12–15 years
Most Bull Arabs live 12–15 years. Like other large dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 7, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
The breed standard asks for a kind, loyal and placid dog with real drive when working, and no aggression towards people. Many make affectionate companions, but they are strong, determined hunters with a powerful prey drive.
- Powerful
- Loyal
- Driven
- Athletic
Food
For a typical 36 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,650 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1.4 L–2.2 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayBull Arabs need a lot of daily exercise and a secure garden. They are built for stamina and speed, and an under-exercised dog can become restless or destructive.
Grooming & shedding
The short coat is easy to care for with a weekly brush. Pale-coated dogs may need sun protection on thinly haired skin.
Health
Many dogs described as Bull Arabs in shelters are actually mixed pig-hunting crosses, so buying a registered dog from a known breeder matters. Early socialisation and steady training are essential for such a powerful dog, and small pets may not be safe around them. The breed is rare outside Australia.
The breed can be prone to
- No well-documented breed-specific diseases
- Working injuries in hunting dogs
- Hip dysplasia is a general risk in large breeds
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scoring
Not every Bull Arab is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Mike Hodgens began breeding the dogs in Queensland in 1972 to find, chase and hold feral pigs across rugged country. After he stopped breeding in 1989, hunters in Queensland and New South Wales carried on with their own lines. The breed association was founded in 2007 to set a standard and work towards national kennel club recognition.
- Country of origin
- Australia
- Type
- Bull and bully breeds
- Recognition
- Registered by the Australian Bullarab Breeder's Association; not recognised by the ANKC, FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Bull Arab right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Bull Arab FAQ
How big does a Bull Arab get?
Adult Bull Arabs typically stand about 61–69 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 30–42 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Bull Arabs live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Bull Arab need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Bull Arab need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Bull Arabs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Bull Arabs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Bull Arabs good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Bull Arab live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Bull Arabs have?
The breed can be prone to no well-documented breed-specific diseases, working injuries in hunting dogs, hip dysplasia is a general risk in large breeds. Not every Bull Arab is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.