Psychologically stable, fearless and friendly dog. It has tremendous power for such a small animal. The content of the English Staffordshire bull terrier is unpretentious, does not need complicated grooming, feels great even in a small area. Has good health. But its main advantage is that the stuffer loves children very much.
From the history of the breed
This English breed has more than 200 years of its history. She was taken to Staffordshire. For this, the bulldog was crossed with terriers of different breeds. The Staffordshire bull terrier appeared for baiting bulls, later it was used as a fighting dog. At the beginning of the XIX century, dog fighting was very popular, so these strong, brave and agile dogs completely conquered the hearts of dog lovers. In those days they were called boules and terrier.
Then the bulldog was larger than today and weighed about 30 kg. He was crossed in the form of an experiment with a little terrier. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier received recognition from the England Kennel Club at the end of the 19th century, but only as a participant in the dogfights in 1935. At the same time the official breed club was founded and its standard was approved. The breed was called the "Staffordshire Bull Terrier".
At the beginning of the 20th century, many dogs of this breed were brought into the colonies of England and the USA. A native of Staffordshire conquered America, winning the love of local dog breeders. The nature and appearance of the dog changed significantly - they became “more American”. Much later, the differences between the Staffordshire Terrier in the USA and the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier in the United Kingdom and Australia were visible.
It was decided to recognize two distinct breeds. Since 1972, dogs bred in the United States have become known as the American Staffordshire Terrier. At that time, the English breed was not yet officially recognized. Two years later (1974), the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier, having its own standard, was registered in the book of the English Kennel Club. Since that time, these two breeds develop as independent.
Appearance
The English Staffordshire bull terrier is much less common than the American breed that descended from it. First of all, the differences are in smaller sizes. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-haired dog, perfectly balanced, extremely strong for its small size, active and agile. Height 40.5 cm, weight up to 20 kg.
Wide skull, developed zygomatic muscles - the main signs of the breed. The transition from the forehead to the nose is very pronounced. The muzzle is short, well filled. The nose has a black lobe. The lips are dry and tight. Jaws powerful, well developed. Scissor bite. The eyes are round, medium size, most often dark, but they may also have a color tone.
Ears semi-medium, medium size, directed in different directions. They never stop.
The neck is powerful, muscular, not too long, dry, smoothly extending to the shoulders.
Differs powerful muscles, smooth, horizontal top line, deep chest and curved ribs.
Limbs
The front legs are bony and straight, set wide apart. There is no weakness in the metacarpus. The blades are retracted.
Hind limbs - powerful, muscular, knees have a clearly defined angle. Movement - powerful, free, economical and deft.
On paws strong, small small pillows are well developed. Claws monochromatic color, black.
Set on low, medium length, tapering towards the end. It should not twist strongly. The ring-shaped tail is considered a vice.
The coat is thick, short, glossy, rather stiff to the touch.
The standard allowed: fawn, red white, blue and black, as well as their combination with white. All shades of tiger and tiger with white. Undesirable - liver and black and tan colors.
The English Staffordshire Bull Terrier (owner reviews confirm our opinion) is a very attractive dog. He has an abyss of charm and a striking, unique smile. This is a mobile, cheerful dog, with a thirst for knowledge and discoveries of the surrounding world. Stafford is unobtrusive, but always ready to communicate. He will take long walks with you, try to entertain or just snuffle around when you're too busy.
Despite its fighting origin, the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier is not at all aggressive to other animals, and even more so to people. Therefore, he will not become a “tough” guard, he is too kind for this job. This charming dog loves children very much. Stuffy is obedient and smart. The only thing that upsets him greatly is the inattention to his beloved master.
But do not think that if another dog attacks him, he will run, tail between his legs. Your pet will be able to stand up for themselves. But he is completely devoid of the desire to kill. This is a healthy physically and mentally dog that does not require complex care and is distinguished by longevity. First of all, it is a companion dog. This is very appreciated by city dwellers.
Training
The English Staffordshire Bull Terrier (the photo we have placed in our article) is easily trained. He successfully performs in dog competitions. In this case, the owner should be aware that it is hard to "push" him. He will be happy to carry out all the commands, as they say, “with a twinkle,” and this is always appreciated by the judges. An adult Stafford can ski an adult person, and for children a walk on sledges harnessed to such a “horse” is an ineffable pleasure.
The only thing that should not, yes indeed, do not want to do Stafford, is “to work for a person,” although some too active “trainers” try to achieve this. In a dog that loves all life, trying to instill qualities that are not inherent in them. It is in vain - all the charm of this dog in its goodwill.
Attitude towards animals
Staffordshire Bull Terrier gets on well in the same house with other pets. Our hero simply ignores small dogs. Apparently, he considers himself a large and wise dog, and therefore cares about them very touchingly. With dogs of large breeds, he behaves on an equal footing, and, as a rule, they develop friendly or partnership relations.
But cats should be more tolerant of their new neighbors, especially with pets. Sooner or later, the cat will understand that licking against the fur from the crown to the tip of the tail is a great Staffordshire love. On the relationship of two dogs of this breed should write a separate article. Licking with grunting, gentle chewing on the ears, sleeping in an embrace with snoring. This is an incredibly touching and cute dog.
Starfordshire bull terrier: owner reviews
What this dog won the hearts of lovers of the breed in the world? The answer is obvious - character. The owners claim that the breed is surprisingly plastic. The dog of the fighters retrained in a great family dog. She is obedient, controllable, even a child can easily cope with it. Stafford is so attached to his family that he respects even the youngest owners and can tolerate very much from them. The owners are sure that this great love for children is a feature of this breed.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier description and standard of breed MKF (FCI)
Country of Origin: United Kingdom.
Classification FCI: Group 3. Terriers. Section 3. Bull type terriers. Without workers test.
General appearance: smooth-haired, well-balanced dog with a strong, muscular body.
Photo of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier - a couple resting on the grass
Behavior / Temperament: faithful, bold, intelligent and affectionate towards the owner.
Skull: deep in length and wide.
Stop (Transition from the forehead to the face): well pronounced.
Nose: Black.
Jaws / Teeth: large, strong teeth, regular scissor bite, upper teeth tightly covering the lower teeth and standing vertically in the jaws.
Lips: tight, clean.
Jaws: Jaws strong, zygomatic muscles pronounced.
Eyes: round, medium size, dark, but permissible in color tone. The eyelids are dark.
Ears: in the form of "roses" or semi-erect, not large. Too big, thick, drooping, or erect ears are highly undesirable.
Neck: muscular, gradually widening towards the shoulders.
Chest: Broad, deep, muscular and well-defined. The ribs are well arched.
Tail: medium length, set low, tapering towards the end and is carried rather low. It should not bend much, in shape it may resemble a pump handle of the old design.
Forelegs: straight with strong bones, set wide, strong in the metacarpus, slightly inclined from the wrist.
Shoulders: Well laid back.
Elbows: tightly pressed, looking strictly back, turning neither in nor out.
HINDQUARTERS: Strong with strong muscles. Seen from behind, the legs are parallel.
Knees: with good angles.
Hock: Lowered.
Feet: Medium size, elastic pads. Claws are black in dogs of a monochromatic color.
Photo English Staffordshire Bull Terrier red-white color
Movement: free, powerful. The legs move in parallel when viewed from the front and rear.
Wool: smooth, short, tight.
Size / Weight of English Staffordshire Bull Terrier:
- Height at withers: 35.5 - 40.5 cm. Height is proportional to weight.
- Weight: dogs 12.7 - 17 kg, females 11 - 15.4 kg.
Disadvantages: Any deviations from the above are considered as defects and are assessed or punished according to the degree of deviation and the effect on the health and well-being of the staff. Any bull terrier with physical or mental disabilities is disqualified.
Note: males must have two testes, fully descended into the scrotum.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier color
- Redhead
- Red and white
- Pale yellow
- White
- The black
- Black and white
- Blue
- Any of the above colors in combination with white.
- All shades tiger and tiger-white
Black and tan or liver colors are highly undesirable.
Character of english staffordshire bull terrier
By the nature of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a bold, fun, intelligent and loyal. They are strong, resilient and assertive as real athletes. Stuffs need regular physical and mental stress, they are perfect for practicing different kinds of sports for dogs: agility (obstacle-crossing competition), frisbee, and weightpulling (dog-load movement competitions). Sport is a wonderful environment in which you can safely direct tireless energy to their physical and mental health.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a great trainer. But puppies of the Staffordshire bull terrier need early socialization and passing early.
Get along well with children, they are great nannies and friends. But no matter how much you trust him, never leave small children alone with him in order to avoid unpleasant consequences.
Not bad get along with pets, especially if they grow up with them. But this love does not extend to other animals on the street or in the neighborhood. They do not get along with their relatives, especially of the same sex can even show aggression. Therefore, at an early age, stop any manifestation.
In the photo staffordshire bull terrier with a ball
Despite the advantages, the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier is not for everyone. She needs an experienced and confident person who will be aware of the abilities and abilities of the bull terrier. The owner must have experience of education and apply positive methods of training, without the use of force.
English Staffordshire Bull Terrier - Care
Care for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is easy enough, since the breed is short-haired. Wool shed, moult seasonal spring-autumn. When keeping a Staffordshire Bull Terrier in a room with dry and warm air, molting can continue all year round. Having noticed strong bald patches on the skin, dandruff, hair is dry and brittle, it is recommended to change the shampoo, and be sure to pay attention to the diet. If changes have not occurred, it is better to consult a veterinarian.
English Staffordshire Bull Terrier frolic in nature
It is recommended to comb it once a week with a natural bristle brush or with a rubber glove or brush during a molt or after bathing. Even short-haired breeds need to be combed, as it will improve blood circulation and stimulate growth and remove dead hair.
Bathe 1 time per month or as needed, with shampoo with conditioner for short-haired breeds. The coat is thoroughly wetted with warm water (make sure that the water is not hot, as the body temperature of the dog is much higher than the temperature of the human body), the shampoo is pre-diluted with water 1: 1. Then lather and rinse with copious amounts of warm water.
Dog shampoo is not recommended to be applied undiluted directly on the wool, and in any case do not hold it for a long time on the body.
After bathing, blot the hair with a towel, and comb it with a rubber brush in the direction of hair growth. It is recommended to insert cotton wool into your ears in order to remove excess moisture faster. Do not walk for at least 2 hours, so that wool and skin are well dried out.
In winter, it is recommended to bathe after the last walk. During this period, the frequency of swimming is reduced to 1 every 2 months or as needed.
Photo English Staffordshire Bull Terrier in the rack
Eyes are regularly inspected, small lumps in the corners of the eyes are permissible and can be easily removed with a clean, lint-free cloth dipped in warm boiled water or chamomile broth. Each eye is rubbed with a separate piece of cloth.
If you notice redness, swelling of the eyelids, excessive tearing or souring of the eyes, immediately contact a veterinarian for help.
Ears inspect 1 time per week. Sulfur and dust are removed with a wet disk moistened in warm water. Having found an excess of sulfur, an unpleasant smell from the ears, reddening of the skin or a rash, be sure to show the bull terrier to the veterinarian and do not self-medicate.
Teeth: Milk teeth in a puppy erupt for 20-30 days. By the age of six months, the milk teeth will change to the original ones. An adult Staffordshire bull terrier has 42 teeth: 12 incisors, 4 canines, 26 molars. Bite - scissor.
It is recommended that teeth be cleaned 3-4 times a week with a special toothpaste for dogs with a toothbrush or a toothbrush. You should not experiment with pastes for people, because they foam, and dogs do not tolerate foam in the mouth.
Claws are cut with a clipper 1 time in 2 weeks in winter, and 1 time per month in summer, as an active dog living in the city can easily grind them off the asphalt. Smooth sharp ends with a nail file for claws. Bull terrier's too hard claws are sometimes difficult to trim, so hold the legs in warm water for a few minutes and they will become more pliable.
Paws after the street to wipe with a wet towel or rinse under the shower. After nature walks, always inspect the paws for the presence of wounds, having discovered which you must treat with antiseptic.
To prevent cracking, add vegetable oil to your diet (1 tsp per day).
In winter, to protect the paws of your favorite Staffi, it is recommended to rub protective wax or paw cream on the paw pads before walking. After walking the product must be washed off. Do this procedure better on a rubber mat before walking.
Another way to protect your bull terrier's paws from salt and reagents is with shoes (silicone or rubber soles). True, too active pets often lose them right on the street.
Clothing is simply necessary for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier during the cold season to prevent overcooling. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a rather scanty undercoat and often freezes at minus temperatures, despite the active temperament. Staffy enough to have a sweater or rain coat for walks in the fall and a warm blanket or overalls on a fleece lining for winter.
De-worming (running worms) is carried out 2-3 times a year. Be sure to consult your veterinarian for medication, as it should be given based on the weight of the dog.
Ticks and fleas of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier:
Regularly treat Staffordshire bull terrier with ectoparasite products (fleas, ticks, lashes). These small insects can cause great damage to health, fleas cause itching, allergies and anxiety.
Ticks, in particular the ixodic tick, is a carrier of piroplasmosis (babesiosis) - a seasonal deadly disease in dogs. After nature walks, always examine the skin for the presence of parasites: neck, armpits, stomach, area under the tail, head, ears. Having found a tick on the surface do not panic, put on gloves and use tweezers or a tweezer to unscrew the insect from the skin. Место укуса осмотрите, там не должно остаться частичек жука, и обработайте антисептиком. Следующие несколько дней следите за состоянием здоровья животного. Если бультерьер активный, кушает с аппетитом и нет температуры, ему повезло, клещ оказался незаразный.But having noticed the following symptoms, immediately seek help from a veterinarian, and you may be able to save the health and life of your beloved dog.
Photo of happy english staffordshire bull terrier
Symptoms of piroplasmosis (babesiosis) in a dog :
- High body temperature (39-42 degrees)
- Lethargy, apathy
- Refusal from food and drink
- Urine reddish brown
- Can't stand on hind legs
To date, there are many different means of fleas and ticks for dogs, and which ones your friend will be able to help your veterinarian choose based on age, weight and health of the Staffordshire bull terrier.
- Drops on withers (valid for 3 weeks)
- Spray (apply before walking)
- Collar (effective with constant wear)
- Tablets (to be given only after consultation with the veterinarian)
A bit of history
This breed was bred in the XIX century in the territory of the English county of Staffordshire. The reason for its creation was the growing popularity of dog fighting and the emergence of the need for more dynamic and temperamental dogs. These animals were obtained by crossing terriers and old-type bulldogs.
After the introduction of the ban on the conduct of dog fighting representatives of this breed were used for hunting burrow animals and for catching rats. The first standard of the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier breed was approved in the spring of 1935. Twenty years later, these animals received official recognition from the International Cynological Federation.
Coat and color
The entire body of a typical representative of this breed is covered with short, straight, tightly fitting ostevogo hair. Wavy, long, silky, soft or sparse wool is considered a defect, and its owners are not allowed to breed.
As regards the colors of the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the standard provides for the existence of brindle, blue-black, white, deer, red and two-colored individuals. Moreover, the presence of white markings is not considered a disadvantage.
Character traits
Despite the specific appearance, stuff - a good-natured, energetic and sociable dog, focused on communicating with the owner. He badly tolerates neglect on the part of the owner and a long separation from him.
The English Staffordshire bull terrier, a description of the breed and the nature of which is difficult to fit into several short paragraphs, is a very clever, self-confident, observant animal, wary of outsiders. It successfully combines high intelligence, courage and ability to concentrate. With the right upbringing and timely socialization, it will turn out to be a great companion and reliable protector who will get along well with other pets.
Maintenance and care
Stuffy is an energetic, temperamental dog that easily adapts to life in a city apartment. He does not need regular trips to the groomer and does not require complex care. In order for the dog to have an attractive and tidy look, it needs to be bathed every few months with a special shampoo and periodically combed out. It is also necessary to clean the pet's ears once a week and systematically cut its claws.
Like any other dog, the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier needs preventive vaccination, deworming and treatment from external parasites.
To maintain physical fitness, the dog needs regular exercise and long walks. This will allow not only to create relief muscles, but also to throw out the accumulated energy.
Upbringing and training
Staffbull is a serious dog prone to domination. Therefore, it is suitable only for experienced people who have raised more than one dog. He is easy to learn, but only after the owner is able to establish good contact with him and clearly build a hierarchy.
To educate a puppy should be literally from the first days of its appearance in your home. The learning process should be systematic and consistent. Absolutely not allow the baby something that will be forbidden to an adult dog. The first thing that a little stuffy should remember is his nickname. As soon as he gets used to his name and starts to happily run at the call, you can gradually complicate the task. An adult English Staffordshire bull terrier puppy should clearly follow the commands “Ko me”, “Fu”, “Near” and “Place”.
These basic things will help control the behavior of the dog at home and while walking. If you are not sure that you can train your pet yourself, do not take risks and use the help of a professional trainer. Otherwise, instead of an obedient companion at the other end of the leash, there will be an uncontrollable and potentially dangerous animal that can cause a lot of trouble.
Feeding recommendations
Proper nutrition - a pledge not only human, but also canine health. Therefore, each responsible owner of the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier will have to take care not only of training and building muscle, but also of the balanced diet of his four-legged friend. The mode and size of the portion depends on the age of the puppy. If the eight-week staff has to provide six-meals, then after ten months it can be transferred to a double feeding.
Like any other dogs, representatives of this breed can eat and industrial, and natural food. In the first case, you should pay attention to products from trusted manufacturers. The food you choose should be a super premium or holistic class, because this is the only way you can be sure that your pet will receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals.
If you decide to give your staff natural food, then you need to remember a few simple rules. The basis of its diet must be meat and offal. In addition, the dog menu should be supplemented with a small amount of cereals, vegetables and sour milk. A couple of times a week it is recommended that the staff give fish and eggs. In addition to the allowed products there is a list of what is strictly forbidden to feed the animal. This list includes bones, sweets, bakery products, legumes, smoked meats and pickles.
In general, English Staffordshire bull terriers, photos of which can be viewed in this publication, are strong and enduring dogs. But, like any other living organisms, they sometimes get sick. Representatives of this breed are prone to obesity, cataracts, twisting of the century, allergic dermatitis and joint dysplasia. Some individuals are diagnosed with congenital deafness and heart disease.
In addition to these pathologies, a dog may have helminthic invasion, hypothyroidism, pituitary-dependent hypercorticism, bloating, arthritis and kidney problems. There are also a number of health problems that can be avoided with the help of annual routine vaccinations. This category includes diseases such as leptospirosis, parainfluenza, the plague of carnivorous, parvo-and coronavirus enteritis.
Who is this breed for?
Stuffy is a serious and very active dog that requires serious education and training. Therefore, the decision to purchase it must be balanced and well thought out. Before you buy English Staffordshire Bull Terrier, honestly answer yourself a few questions.
First, you need to ask yourself whether you have sufficient finances to adequately support your future pet. Indeed, since the acquisition of a puppy, you have to spend not only on food, ammunition and toys. Among the mandatory costs will need to include the services of a trainer and visits to the veterinarian.
Secondly, it is necessary to understand whether you can daily make out at least a couple of hours for walks and classes with your dog. After all, stuffedbull requires regular physical and mental stress. Otherwise, the dog will start to look for entertainment.
Thirdly, you need to figure out whether your lifestyle matches the temperament of your potential pet. Active and cheerful stuff will be a real gift for active people who love long walks. However, this dog will not be able to get along with a phlegmatic host who prefers to spend time in front of the TV.
Tips for choosing a puppy
If you nevertheless decided on such a crucial step as buying an English Staffordshire bull terrier, reviews of which sound only in a positive way, you need to contact a specialized nursery or a professional breeder. After all, the only way you can be absolutely sure that you get a healthy animal that has all the necessary documents and complies with the official standard of the breed.
It is imperative that the puppy you choose show no signs of cowardice or aggression. He must be curious and well-groomed. Pay attention to the condition of his ears, eyes and fur. Also, the baby should not have a swollen abdomen, as this may indicate the presence of a worm infestation.
Reviews of English Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The owners, in whose homes the representatives of this breed live, assure them that they are excellent and very intelligent animals that do an excellent job with the role of a companion. They are unpretentious in food, do not need specific care and quickly adapt to the content in urban environments.
However, experienced owners draw the attention of beginners to the need for early socialization. They recommend to be with the puppy more often in noisy crowded places so that he gets used to various stimuli and learn how to react to them correctly. They also advise inexperienced owners not to let their pets off the leash, since staffies may show aggression towards other dogs.
In general, these are perfectly adequate animals that can be well trained. But sometimes they are quite stubborn, which can complicate the training. In order not to aggravate the emerging problem and speed up the educational process, it is advisable to resort to the help of a professional instructor. By showing perseverance and patience, you can grow a beautiful, reliable and controlled dog from a small puppy.
The emergence of the breed Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier owes its name to the county of Staffordshire, which bred the breed. Staffords as representatives of their “race” are about 200 years old. Initially, these dogs were bred for bull baiting, later they became fighting dogs. Dog lovers and no less lovers of dog fighting love stuff for their endurance, incredible strength, courage and dexterity. Earlier, the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier was called the Bull and Terrier.
The middle of the XIX century became significant for this breed, since Jace Hinks from Birmingham decided to conduct some kind of experiment and crossed the staff with the practically disappeared English white terrier. The result of the experiment - an elegant white dog color. Hinks represented the fruit of his experiment as an English Staffordshire Terrier until the 1860s. It is a pity that not everyone liked this pet, so breeding experiments to improve the fighting breed were continued.
Somewhat later, ardent fans of this breed created the English Kennel Club, so that the Staffordshire Bull Terrier "separated" from the white "brother", because the description of the breed of the first pet is very different from the second in many characteristics. At the end of the 20th century, Stafford entered the Top 10 most popular dogs recognized by the Kennel Club.
The beginning of the twentieth century was also marked by the arrival of the staff in the colonies of the United States and England. English stuff won the hearts of local dog breeders. Over time, the characteristics of the breed and its appearance have undergone significant changes. If you compare the photos of English and American Stafford, they are quite different. Since then, eminent breeders have taken responsibility for declaring these two breeds independent. In 1972, the breed was "American Staffordshire Terrier". In 1974, the English Staffordshire Terrier was recognized as an independent breed due to its own standard by the English Kennel Club.
Dog behavior
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a wayward character, so when you see a baby in your home, you should immediately bring it up. It is strictly not allowed to allow the pet to do whatever it pleases. Especially since it may subsequently annoy the host.
The first thing to do when a staff member appears in the house is to accustom him to the “me” team. Experienced breeders claim and strongly recommend not to scold the puppy when he ran the team and approached the owner. Even if there are good reasons for this. Otherwise, the Stafford decides that the owner will scold him every time the dog performs this command, and next time ignores the order. At the age of 4-5 months, you can actively begin to train the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. As the characteristic of the breed shows, the representatives of this species of the canine world are very quick-witted and easily cope even with a difficult task. Occasionally you can seek help from a professional instructor.
English Staffordshire Terrier should be accustomed to a leash. In this case, the pet owner must show that it is he who leads his dog, and not the dog leads the owner. It is impossible to allow the Stafford to pull the leash: periodically you need to pull the puppy and change the direction of movement. The relationship between the puppy staff and its owner should be clarified: the leader of the pack is man. If Stafford decides to take a dominant position, it should be nipped in the bud. Otherwise the price of the owner-dog relationship will be too high.
Interesting Facts
- The English Staffordshire Bull Terrier is smart and smart enough, but the character of the dog “breathes” independence. This is impossible not to notice in numerous photos. Independence can cause disobedience during training.
- Dogs of this breed require early socialization, especially if the owner wants a friendly attitude on the part of the staff towards other animals.
- Owner reviews are replete with statements that the English Staffordshire Terrier prefers to lie with the owner on the couch while watching TV programs.
- Puppies-staffs at an early age love to chew a lot, so you need to take care of the availability of special toys.
- English staff loves children very much, but it is highly recommended not to leave children alone with a pet.
- The price of the puppy is high, but with proper training the pet will grow obedient, well-mannered and calm.
- As the breed characteristic shows, presented dogs have a strong hunting instinct, so they can chase after other animals, treating them as prey.
- In many countries, dogs of this breed are prohibited.
- As the description of the breed represents Stafford, the dog will protect the owner and his family to the last, but the pet will not cope with the role of a guard at home.
- If you view numerous videos, you can see that Stafford is an extremely sociable and active dog, so it is not recommended to leave him alone.
- Pet can be a great friend and a good guard for children of middle and older age.
- It is recommended to get Stafford active people who have a lot of free time left. After all, dogs of this breed require long daily walks to maintain muscles in proper condition.
The Staffordshire bull terrier is worthy of becoming a member of the family, especially since activity, sociability and friendliness are only “on hand” for such dogs, as evidenced by numerous positive reviews. Look at the photo: how can such a pretty face harmoniously combine with a stubborn character ?!
History of origin
The origin of the noble breed is associated with England. The animal is obliged by its appearance to the dynasty of the dukes of Hamilton from the county of Staffordshire. Legend has it that a nobleman who lived in the 18th century in his youth was fond of dog fights that were popular in those times. He brought out the Staffordshire bull terrier from the dogs that lived in his kennels.
The ancestors of the staffs were Old English mastiffs, terriers and bulldogs. Such fearless dogs were bullied in the dark Middle Ages. Hence the name - bull terrier. The dogs were taken to America by immigrants who went there in search of a better life. In this country, the breed was very popular, and its breeding went a little different way than at home. For breeding large animals with increased aggressiveness were selected. Currently, English and American Staffordshire Terriers are two different breeds.
The English Kennel Club approved the staffing standard in 1935. Since then, he has not changed. The International Canine Federation recognized the breed in 1954.
Description and characteristics of the breed
This is an active and hardy, very strong dog. It is smaller in size than the American Staffordshire Terrier. The maximum height at the withers for a dog is 40 cm, the minimum is 35 cm, and the weight is 13-17 kg.
Unlike bulldogs, the staff has no wrinkles on the skin, the nose is not too short, the body is slender, muscular. When looking at the face, you might think that the dog is smiling, while his eyes shine with intelligence and curiosity.
Do not be deceived by the cute appearance of the staffies: his ancestors were fighting breeds of dogs. Мощь, сила и агрессия заложены у животного на генетическом уровне. При неправильном и неумелом воспитании возможны конфликты, драки с другими собаками и непослушание хозяину.
Продолжительность жизни
Живут стаффордширские бультерьеры 12–14 лет. У них нет особых проблем со здоровьем. It is necessary once a year to be examined in a veterinary clinic, to be vaccinated in time.
The dog does not tolerate too cold and hot weather. When the air temperature is from 0 to -5 ° C, it is necessary to ensure that the animal does not sit in place while walking, constantly moving. In severe frost, classes at the training site should be postponed.
In hot weather, in the summer, it is impossible to wear a muzzle on the dog, it is able to cool the body temperature only through an open mouth. It is advisable to carry some drinking water and a bowl with you so that the dog can quench your thirst. In a closed car in the sun, a pet is in grave danger; it may die from overheating.
Dog's purpose
The guard instinct of the staffordshire bull terrier is poorly developed, so there is no point in demanding from him such actions in relation to the property or the yard territory. To people, aggression is completely absent. This is a wonderful companion dog - loyal, courageous, intelligent, active and cheerful. She gets along well with children and pets, whom she used to from childhood.
The original purpose of the staff - fighting dog, fighting in the ring with their own kind. “The Call of Blood” is sometimes manifested in an unreasonable aggression towards other dogs. Therefore, dog handlers consider the breed difficult to maintain for inexperienced dog breeders. Beginners will definitely need the help of a trainer in raising a puppy.
Breed standard and puppy selection
The dog is small in stature, powerful and strong, proportionally folded, with pronounced musculature. Character courageous and fearless.
Breed description, standard requirements:
- wide skull, muscles of cheekbones are well developed,
- the transition from the forehead to the face is pronounced,
- short muzzle with black nose,
- eyes are round, small, dark, their color corresponds to coat color,
- ears slightly curved, like rose petals,
- strong jaws, perfectly correct bite and large teeth,
- the neck is short, powerful
- limbs slender, the front wide apart, rear - parallel to each other,
- back is straight, chest deep and broad, muscular,
- tail set low, tapering to the tip, has an average length, does not happen to be bent into a ring.
Smooth wool of a staff without a undercoat may have a different color: fawn, white, black, red, with a tiger shade, blue. White spots on the main background are permissible, hepatic color is undesirable.
When choosing a staff it is necessary to focus on the requirements of the standard and common sense. A puppy should be from the nursery, with documents, cost no less than the market price. And you should also pay attention to the behavior and appearance of the parents of the future pet, check the pedigree. Character is inherited. It is advisable not to take a hyperactive or cowardly puppy.
Content, care and feeding
A city apartment and private property are equally suitable for staffies. Keep the dog can only be at home, in the aviary in the winter it will freeze.
Feeding depends on the metabolism of each individual animal, but there are general rules that will help the owner to choose a competent diet and diet. Adult dogs are fed 1-2 times a day, puppies - from 3 months and up to half a year 4 times a day, from 6 months and up to a year - 3 times. Food is given after physical exertion and walks, so that the intestines do not turn around. The question of how to feed a dog depends on the capabilities and desires of the owner. The easiest option - ready dry and wet food premium and super premium class. When choosing a natural product, preference is given to protein foods: meat, fish, offal. About 20% of the daily menu are vegetables and cereals.
Staffbull is a short-haired breed that sheds 2 times a year. You need to be prepared for the periodic appearance of wool on furniture and carpets. If a dog is combed out by a furminator once a day during a molt, the consequences of this period will be less. After each walk, the dog is washed paws. Bathe 1 time per month to eliminate the peculiar smell emanating from the coat.
Walking preferably at least 2 hours a day, two times - in the morning and evening. During this exercise, it is advisable to engage in physical activity games. The collar and leash must be strong, as the dog is strong and can test the strength of the wearing ammunition. You can not let go for a walk with a child without an adult.
Pros and cons of breed
First, about the pros of stuffing, since there are more of them than minuses:
- good companion with proper education,
- possesses advanced intellect, quickly learns commands,
- active, cheerful, loves outdoor games,
- fearless and devoted to his master
- has good health and a balanced psyche.
The minuses of the breed can be attributed to periodic molting and complex. The dog is active and strong, requires regular training, a lot of attention.
English Staffordshire Terrier is a constant and tireless friend. He charges with optimism and does not allow to be bored, gets on well with the outside world and is always ready to express his faithful love to the owner
