Staffordshire bull terrier belongs to England where it is lovingly called as “nanny dog” because of its caring and nurturing nature towards children. This dog will assume his role as nursemaid and will supervise the child when the parents are away or busy. It makes great family dog and is a mesmerizing add on to your family.
Historically this breed was smallest fighting dog but eventually its role changed as wonderful companion. The only thing this dog craves for is human touch all through his life- he will follow you everywhere, would not mind watching football match with you and running errands in the car with you.
The dog is sensitive in nature and cruel behavior can lead to neurotic problems in it. This breed has a dynamic personality and resembles like any other bull breeds. If you can give vigorous walk to your dog along with attention then this breed is for you.
Origin
The breed was developed in 19th century in England by cross mating Bulldog with Manchester terrier. People wanted a dog which is small in size and excel in fighting game; hence development of this breed fulfilled their desire.
This breed shares the same ancestors with American Pit Bull Terrier and the Bull Terrier. In 1835 Staffordshire bull terrier club was developed to promote the breed.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Facts And Characteristics
- The breed belongs to England and is categorized as fighting dog
- It is a human oriented dog and should never be left alone or chained outside
- They are independent thinkers, so firm leader is needed to control the dog
- The dog will follow you everywhere and it loves to sit with you
- It is not a friendly breed towards other animals
- This breed loves children and loves to entertain them
- It has a habit of chewing, provide it durable toys
- The breed loves digging which is a common habit of every terrier
- They are good watch dog but not guard dog
- This breed thrives well in cold climate. During hot temperatures, you need to take extra care of your dog
- Their lifespan is 12 to 14 years
- They weigh around 13–17 kg
- Height of the dog is 36–41 cm
- They come in many colors like- black, white, red brindle and fawn
- Price of the puppy is $800 to $1200
- The breed is not hypoallergenic.
Appearance
The dog has a compact yet muscular body. Its face is broad with flat muzzle. The neck of the dog is small and has a deep chest. Jaw is strong and teeth should meet in a scissor bite. Its nose should essentially be black in color. Eyes are of medium size and dark in color. Few dogs possess light shade of eyes but that should complement their coat. Its ears can be half pricked or rose shaped. Legs are small but powerful enough to provide it agility.
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Size and Coat
Female breed height should be 33–38 cm. Male breed height should be 36–41 cm. Female should weigh around 11–15 kg while male should weigh around 13–17 kg.
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Coat and Color
It has a short, even and smooth coat. Its coat should hug tightly to its skin. Its color can be red, fawn, white, brindle and black. Many dogs come in combination of two colors which is acceptable.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Temperament
- Personality - The breed enjoys life as it is rough and a tough dog. At the fighting spot, it becomes determined and serious and inside home it will curl up to your feet for pampering. This breed is renowned for its love towards children. It will become your children’s best friend, playmate and even a pillow for them. The dog loves to participate in human activities doesn’t matter even if it involves watching television. It is recommended for a family who is active and at least one person always remains at home.
- Behavior - The dog possesses strong jaw and no amount of training can eradicate its habit of chewing. It will chew everything, so it is better to provide it durable toys and bones so that it can fulfill its chewing desire. It is also an excessive barker so no bark command is mandatory to teach the dog. Apart from this, provide your dog space to dig else it will destroy all the plants of your garden area.
- Trainability - The dog is suitable for firm leader who can establish himself as alpha in dog’s eyes. They are not recommend for timid and novice owners. The dog has a willful mind and it likes to do things according to his own will. Training can be challenging but once they are trained they make best pet. Obedience lesson, socialization lesson and no bark command is must for the breed to learn.
- Activities Requirement - It enjoys doggies games like catching the ball, hide and seek etc. They enjoy spending time with children. You can take your dog on running, jogging or long distance walking.
Feeding
Feed them 1.5 to 2.25 cups of food per day divided into two equal meals rather leaving food all the time. Provide them high quality dog food either home cooked or commercially manufactured. Consider the age, activity level and metabolism while formulating diet regime.
Avoid giving food and water for an hour immediately after vigorous exercise to prevent bloat or gastric dilatation volvulus. Watch the calorie consumption level and weight of your dog. Keep fresh and clean water near the dog at all the times.
Lifespan
This breed lives up to 12 to 14 years.
Health Issues
It is not a hypoallergenic breed. Dog’s health concerns are- cataracts, patellar luxation, cystine urolithiasis, hyperadrenocorticism, and skin allergies.
Grooming
The dog shed minimally throughout the year. Once a year, it will blow out its entire coat. Weekly once brushing is recommended to keep the coat mats and debris free. Brush its teeth at least two to three times a week or daily to prevent bad breath and avoid dental problems.
Trim its nails once a month or when needed. This breed doesn’t require bath often as its coat has little odour and is dirt repellent, hence bathe when required. Check ears for any sign of infection, irritation, redness and wax build up. Wipe around the outer edge of the ear and do not force cotton ball deeper than first knuckle of your finger.
Habitat
The dog is suitable for apartment only if it has been given enough opportunity to vent out its energy. They are suitable for moderate temperature. They can tolerate cold temperature better than hot temperature as they are prone to heat strokes in summer season. Care should be taken in summer season.
Pet Names
- Tyson
- Tarzan
- Harley
- Buddy
- Janu
Things To Consider Before Buying
Pros
- They are human oriented dogs and their life revolves around humans
- They are best dogs for family with children. They are even called as “nanny dog” for their care and love towards children
- They are protective of people they love
- They make excellent watch dog. They will bark to make you aware of the approaching stranger.
Cons
- The dog tends to be barkers and chewers. They will bark at every new sight or sound. They have a habit of chewing so keep your leather shoes in a safe place
- It is not a hypoallergenic breed
- The dog tends to be aggressive in nature. They are not good with other animals
- They are challenging to train because they have a willful mind and think themselves as boss.