Staffordshire Bull Terrier – Tiny Powerhouse and Loyal Family Member
07.10.2022 - Reading time: 3 minutes
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier – or Staffie as it is also known by lovers of the breed – is an English dog breed with a long tradition as a family dog. These muscular four-legged companions are extremely patient with large and small family members if they have been well socialised. In Germany there are restrictions governing the ownership of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier in many of the federal states, since it is on the dangerous dogs list.
NewsletterStaffordshire Bullterrier
Breed | Staffordshire Bullterrier |
Origin | Great Britain |
Classification | Terrier |
Size | 33 to 41 centimetres shoulder height |
Weight | 11 to 17 kilograms
|
Physique | robust muscular powerhouse with powerful chest and broad head |
Eyes | mainly dark and round |
Ears | small “rose” or half-pricked ears to the side of the head |
Coat and colour | smooth, short and dense; large range from white to black, brindled or with white markings |
Special features | on the Dangerous Dogs List for Germany with special legal requirements |
Nature | intelligent, courageous, playful and loyal to his family |
Health | tendency to eye and joint disease |
Care | easy to care for (grooming, claw clipping and ear cleaning) |
From fighting dog to family dog
The Bull Terrier, that originates from the county of Staffordshire in England, was bred in the 19th century as a winner in dog and bullfights. The founders of the breed placed the greatest importance on courage, tenacity and a willingness to cooperate with people. Bull Terriers have been crossed with other terriers and collies. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a reputation as extremely long suffering, strong and loyal – a dog that would go through fire for its family. This breed was and is one of the most popular breeds of family dog in Great Britain.
Character of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has two basic characteristics: unconditional love for his family and the will to fight to the death if needs be. They have been bred for this latter feature and this is reflected both in their appearance and in their character. Fundamentally, the Staffie is at heart a friendly, loyal dog that needs to be loved, and who wants to please his owner. A well socialised Staffordshire Bull Terrier will not object to being mauled by tiny hands. Early and appropriate socialisation as well as the optimal genetic predisposition in its breeding play an important role, if you decide to go for a dog of this breed. If the sire and dam do not have impeccable credentials, or if the dog has been badly reared and trained, these powerful dogs can turn into a menace, which is why the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is on the Dangerous Dogs List for Germany.
Training and keeping
Stubborn, a bit obstinate and gullible – this is how lovers of the breed describe their Staffordshire Bull Terriers. But behind this facade there is an intelligent, easy-to-train and people-loving dog, who always wants to be in the thick of things. Many Staffies have problems with being alone for a long time, and express this by destroying their surroundings. However charming and loyal these powerhouses might be, they need clear and consistent training. Make sure that from the very beginning you stick to the same rules for your Staffie, so that he learns and accepts his position. Use the first weeks to socialise him well with everything in his daily life, including other dogs.
Looking after a Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a dog that is easy to care for. Giving his coat a thorough brush once a week is good both for his fur and for bonding between dog and owner. Regular claw, ear and teeth checks are recommended. Many Staffordshire Bull Terriers are blessed with a good appetite. Therefore pay attention to your pet’s diet, particularly as he ages. If cared for well, a strong terrier can live for up to 15 years.
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