The Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Size
Exercise Requirements  
Grooming Requirements  
Weight11 - 17 Kg (approx)
Life Span14 - 16 Years (approx)

Appearance

Easy misidentified as a Pit Bull, American Staffordshire Terrier, Bull Terrier as well as other Bull breeds. He ideally stands between 14’ to 16’ and weighs between 11kg – 17kg. There colours are red, fawn, white, black or blue, or any one of these colours with white. Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white. Potential owners of the breed should be aware coat colour has no bearing on price and that there are no rare colours in Staffordshire Bull Terriers.

History

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a man-made breed and was a cross between the bulldog of the day (not the current Bulldog) and the now extinct Old English Terrier. He was developed in an era when man was less than humane to man and definitely less accommodating towards animals. The breed was recognised by The Kennel Club (UK) in 1935.

Temperament

This is where the breed really comes into its element. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has always been a popular choice for Australian families and this tradition looks set to continue. A reliable all purpose family breed, he has an affinity with children and he is their protector and confidant. A Stafford yearns for affection from his family and friends. To be frank - this interaction is required for his well-being. He is happy to go for a walk, ride in the car or snuggle on the couch with his owner/s. It is often said that when this happy-go-lucky soul is around you are never really alone. The SBT is very much child-proof and can handle the punishment young children often inflict. It is highly recommended, as with all breeds, that supervision is always practiced. In a nutshell no child should be left with ANY animal unsupervised.

Care / Grooming

The original wash and wear dog! Being a single coated breed all that is generally required is a quick weekly rub down with a damp cloth/chamois. Winter care is required with the Stafford. He is not one to tolerate weather extremes – much preferring to spend time inside with his owners day to day activities. It is important not to exercise young puppies (less than 12 months)
too much too soon as this may cause future health problems . Contrary to common belief Staffords do not need copious amounts of exercise. Again, be sensible, a Stafford will walk with you for miles at its own comfortable pace with lots of stops for sniffing etc. No one is advocating running a 10 mile marathon (and yes, it has been known and no you shouldn't even consider it!) Probably the most beneficial exercise is walking/jogging with your Stafford. However with all dogs – Routine is King!

Health

Generally a robust and healthy breed however he can suffer from some genetic diseases. Responsible breeders with the support of the ANKC and other breeders are attempting to selectively breed out these hereditary afflictions. When purchasing a SBT from registered breeders (unfortunately not all breeders are registered with the ANKC and these particular "breeders" generally refrain from health testing breeding stock) do not be afraid to ask the breeder about their stock, their breeding practices nor be afraid to ask to see health certificates.

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