DESCRIPTION

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a powerful and muscular dog, very strong for his size with a broad head and very strong jaws. The muzzle is short and the cheek muscles distinct. The stop is clearly defined. The round eyes are brown and the nose, black. The teeth should form a scissors bite. The ears are either rose or half-pricked. The neck is short and muscular. The front legs are spaced wide apart. If they have rear dewclaws they are generally removed, front dewclaw removal is optional. The short coat is soft, sleek and close. Comes in black, blue, fawn or brindle, often with white markings. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier does everything full throttle: play, work and love. It is extremely courageous and obedient, affectionate with a sense of humour. One owner of this breed says "Staffordshire Bull Terriers are very people friendly. They are not particularly wary of strangers in almost all circumstances - although I've heard a few anecdotes about some being wary of particular people. My dogs are always happy to meet new people!" The breed's reputation with children is second to none (see the video). Adored and adoring within its own family circle. It is usually good with other pets in the household, but may be combative with dogs outside the family, especially dogs of his breed or related breeds. They are intelligent and stubborn at times but this is the appeal of this 'human' in doggy fur! The Staffordshire needs firm and consistent training. They are persistent and active.

TEMPERAMENT

As a puppy they tend to chew a great deal so make sure you provide them with plenty of chew toys. Their powerful jaws will tear though vinyl toys to get to the squeaker in no time. This can be dangerous if the dog swallows the plastic. Be sure to only give your Staffie strong toys. Do not allow it to be off its leash unless it is safe to do so. They can be trained for agility and competitive obedience. The breed competes in agility and obedience in the UK at the highest level. Staffies love a challenge and variety. Owners need to protect these dogs from injuring themselves. Totally fearless and curious, they're liable to jump off of a deck or walk through broken glass.

HEIGHT & WEIGHT

Height:  Dogs 14-16 inches (36-41cm)    Bitches 13-15 inches (33-38cm)
Weight: Dogs 28-38 pounds (12-17kg)   Bitches 24-34 pounds (11-15kg)

HEALTH PROBLEMS LIVING CONDITIONS

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is very active indoors and will do okay with a small yard.

EXERCISE

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier possesses tremendous stamina and must have plenty of exercise, but keep them on a leash in public places at all times

LIFE EXPECTANCY

10-16 Years

GROOMING

The smooth, shorthaired coat is easy to groom. Brush every day with a firm bristle brush, and bathe or dry shampoo as necessary. The coat will gleam if rubbed with a piece of towelling or chamois.

ORIGIN

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was developed in the region of Staffordshire, England in the nineteenth century from crosses between Bulldogs and various Terriers. The Staffordshire Bull was developed for the then-popular sport of bull baiting. The breed's popularity waned as interest in the sport waned. Then, in the twentieth century, interest in the breed grew again, especially in the United States. It returned to the show ring in 1935. In the U.S. it is now well bred in a size slightly larger than that called for in the European standard. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is not a dog for every family, but in the hands of a dominant, experienced owner; it can be a successful pet and family guardian.