The Bull Terrier Club of Victoria Inc, was formed in 1976 by a small group of breed enthusiasts. At this time, the bull terrier was not common in Australia, however its popularity gained momentum and in the late 1980’s and early 90’s it became one of the most numerous breeds in the terrier group. In fact, in 1988 when the First Australian Bull Terrier Book was published, the club boasted around 500 members.
Today numbers are more modest. As with many large dogs that are “in fashion” for a time, the bull terrier unfortunately found his way into the hands of a few irresponsible owners who did not respect the power and intelligence of the breed or his fighting background. A bull terrier in ignorant hands is a recipe for disaster. And as a result of this undesirable human minority, the bull terrier has been left with a reputation for aggression that he is yet to shake from the media and public image. Bull terrier clubs Australia-wide have had to take up a new position, as a public and media educator in order to correct this distorted image.
Fortunately, the breed’s demise in popularity has not been for the worse. Nowadays if someone really wants a bully, they have to be prepared to pay over $1000 and may have to wait several months on a waiting list for a pup. This certainly helps to weed out anyone who is not prepared to put some forethought into owning a bull terrier. And if you are prepared to wait, then it will more than worthwhile.
Primarily, the BTCV strive to promote the bull terrier as he truly is… a devoted family companion, extremely affectionate, and a fun loving natural comedian!
The committee is made up of dedicated owners and breeders who volunteer a significant portion of free time to:
o Organise bull terrier shows and member fun days.
o Educate owners, the general public, media and government bodies on responsible dog ownership, and breed identification.
o Lobbying against the discriminatory ‘breed specific legislation’ which has seen the ownership or breeding of bull terriers banned in some parts of the world.
o Assisting medical researchers and breeders with hereditary diseases research.
o Liaison with government canine control agencies and similar clubs around Australia for the betterment of facilities and legislation for all dog owners and lovers!
