STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIER Breed Standards
The origins of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier can be traced back to the 17th century. The larger bulldog and mastiff had been used for bull baiting in England but as that sport declined in popularity dogfights became more common. This created the need for a smaller and more agile dog. Bulldogs were bred down in size and eventually a cross between these smaller dogs and the Black and Tan Terrier created the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. These dogs were known for their courage and gameness in the ring but they were also bred to be loyal and affectionate toward their handlers. Dog fighting eventually began to lose its popularity and was outlawed in 1835.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier remained in favor with working class families, however, and soon after the ban on dog fighting a group of workers in the Staffordshire area attempted to preserve the breed by introducing it into the world of dog shows. These very same men would eventually write up the breed standard and give the dog its name. Today the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is known as a stable, playful family companion and is the 5th most popular dog in the UK with 18 breed clubs in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. In the UK, its kind and motherly temperament toward children has earned it the nickname Nanny Dog.
SKILLS: The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, is a smooth-coated dog. It should be of great strength for its size and, although muscular, should be active and agile
SIZE: Height at shoulder: 14 to 16 inches. Weight: Dogs, 28 to 38 pounds; bitches, 24 to 34 pounds, these heights being related to weights. Non-conformity with these limits is a fault. In proportion, the length of back, from withers to tail set, is equal to the distance from withers to ground.
COAT: Smooth, short and close to the skin, not to be trimmed or de-whiskered. Color - Red, fawn, white, black or blue, or any of these colors with white. Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white. Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified
CARE REQUIRED: The smooth, short-haired 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 toweling or chamois.
CHARACTER: From the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage, high intelligence, and tenacity. This, coupled with its affection for its friends, and children in particular, its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability, makes it a foremost all-purpose dog.
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.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: 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.
TRAINING: 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. These dogs are not recommended for most families because they need firm, experienced handling and training.
