STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIER
A brief overview
The Staffordshire bull terrier, diminutive Staffik, is distinguished not only by its loyalty, but also by its courage and friendly disposition towards people and other animals. Dogs of this breed are characterized by a short, smooth coat, muscular paws and a rather stocky body. Their sociability and openness make them great companions for life.
Table of contents
Country of origin
The dog originated in Great Britain.
BREED CHARACTERISTICS
Weight
11 – 17 kg.
Height
35 – 40 cm.
Type of hair
Short, smooth and clinging.
Life expectancy
12 – 14 years.
Health
Dogs of this breed generally enjoy good health, but sometimes they get eye problems, hip dysplasia and skin allergies.
Character
Bold, sociable, open-minded, lively, intelligent.
Need for exercise
Staffordshire bull terriers have a high need for exercise and physical activity so that they can enjoy good health.
FCI classification
Group 3 (terriers), section 3 (bull-type terriers).
Price
3,500 – 7,000 PLN (ZKwP).
History and origins
The origins of the Staffordshire bull terrier breed can be traced back to 19th century England, where bulldogs were crossed with various terriers. At first, dogs of this breed were mainly involved in dog fights, but over time, due to the aforementioned friendly disposition, they gained popularity as family dogs.
Appearance and physique
The average Staffordshire bull terrier is a dog with a muscular body of medium size. Its short and smooth coat comes in a variety of colors, such as brindle, white, black, blue and fawn. Dogs of this breed are characterized by a broad head, strong jaws and dark eyes. Their tail is short.
Temperament and behavior
As mentioned earlier, Staffordshire bull terriers are known for their bravery and loyalty to their handlers. They are also friendly towards people, which makes them excellent companions, both for adults and children. They love to be the center of attention.
Training and activity
Staffordshire bull terriers are dogs that are everywhere, they love movement, including long walks, running and playing outdoors. Their training should be regular, using positive methods. Since they are an intelligent and eager-to-learn breed, training with them is usually quite easy and enjoyable, as long as we make sure it is varied and appropriately intense. Socialization with people and other dogs is also very important for them.
Health and life expectancy
Staffordshire bull terriers generally enjoy good health, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health problems. It’s a good idea to take a special interest in the condition of their eyes, joints and skin, due to the possibility of conditions such as cataracts, eyelash bifocality, elbow and hip dysplasia or skin allergies. They also have genetic diseases such as ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) and L-2-hydroxyglutaric acidosis. They are also prone to stomach problems. Life expectancy is 12 to 14 years.
Care and custody
Because their coat is short and sleek, grooming can be limited to regular brushing, which helps minimize shedding. It’s also a good idea to regularly monitor and clean eyes and ears, and trim claws.
Diet and nutrition
Staffordshire bull terriers are prone to food allergies, so when having a dog of this breed under your roof, it is important to ensure a well-balanced diet that is properly adapted to his needs. It’s also worth taking care of proper portions to prevent potential overweight.
Maintenance costs
The cost of maintaining a Staffordshire bull terrier does not have to be high, it is possible to balance the budget well, including nutrition, veterinary care and basic accessories. However, it is worth having savings in reserve for possible treatment of the aforementioned diseases.
Buying or adoption
As with other breeds, when deciding on a breeder, it is a good idea to pay attention to reviews of the breeder and the health of the puppies’ parents. In shelters you can often find representatives of this breed, so adoption can also be a great choice.
Own breeding
Due to the complexity of this breed, the decision to open a kennel of Staffordshire bull terriers should go hand in hand with a great deal of knowledge, commitment, considerable financial and time investment. Care should be taken to ensure the overall good health of the dogs and avoid genetic diseases. Orthopedic examinations including X-rays of the hip and elbow joints, ophthalmologic examinations and genetic blood tests to rule out NCL and L-2-hydroxyglutaric acidosis are recommended in kennels.
Did you know?
Summary
Through the eyes of a behaviorist
Staffordshire bull terrier is a great companion dog, cheerful, open and loyal, but also assertive. In raising a Staffie, the most important thing is to give him a good dose of activity and ensure that he is socialized as early as possible with people and other dogs.
Through the eyes of a veterinarian
The Staffordshire bull terrier is a breed that can suffer from specific health problems, mainly involving the eyes, joints and skin, so it is important not to underestimate worrying symptoms and to react quickly.
