History of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed In the early 1800s, the Staffordshire bull terrier was developed when the working class sought a fearless dog that was both quick and powerful to entertain them in the sport of dog fighting. Rat killing had been popular, however fanciers of the rat pit began looking for a more exciting alternative �?and dog fighting was that alternative. The Staffordshire bull terrier was a result of crossbreeding the Old English bulldog with the black and tan terrier. This “bull and terrier�?dog was small, agile with strong jaws. It was bred to be gentle with humans; because during the dog fights, it had to be handled safely by its owner. By the time the sport was banned in Britain, this little rascal had grown quite a following. Some fanciers continued to secretly fight their dogs, but most sought a legal way to compete. The show ring was the perfect arena to show off the breed. Efforts were soon made to produce a breed that would do better in the ring as well as be a more agreeable companion. The attempts were successful, and the Staffordshire bull terrier was recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1935 and by the AKC in 1974. It may have been bred a fighter, but the true nature of this terrier is fun-loving and friendly. Size and Appearance of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier For its small size, the Staffordshire bull terrier is muscular and quick �?an unlikely combination. Its frame is wide and slightly longer than it is tall, which accounts for its firm stance. Its coat is short, sleek and dense with colorings of red, fawn, white, black or blue, or any one of these colors with white; any shade of brindle, or any shade of brindle with white. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Temperament This terrier breed is playful, friendly and loyal to its family. It is responsive to its owner and good with children except for a tendency to jump on smaller kids. It is so gentle with children that it has earned the nickname of the Nanny Dog because of its willingness to entertain kids. It is usually friendly toward strangers, but aggressive with strange dogs. Although the Staffordshire bull terrier will not look for a fight, it will stand its own if approached or attacked. As a puppy, this breed tends to chew excessively and is difficult to housebreak. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Recommended Maintenance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier requires minimal grooming �?an occasional brushing and a bath when necessary. It is an athletic breed that must maintain a rigorous exercise program to maintain its muscle tone. Daily walks or active games in a safe area are ideal. This terrier should be kept on a leash in public places. It adapts to city life well as long as it is given the proper amount of exercise. It can live outdoors in mild weather, but reacts negatively to the cold and craves human contact, making it a better indoor pet. The Staffordshire bull terrier is easy to train, but can have a stubborn streak. It needs consistency and socialization to other animals. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Health �?Life span: 12 �?14 years
�?Major concerns: none
�?Minor concerns: none
�?Occasionally seen: cataract, CHD
�?Suggested tests: (CERF), (OFA)
�?Note: The high pain threshold may mask problems.
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