GROUP 2 - TERRIERS

Brief History
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was brought into existence on the early 1800s as cross between the Bulldog and the now extinct Old English Terrier. This produced a dog with a longer, more punishing head than the Bulldog, combined with both strength and agility. Importance was placed on a game, fighting dog rather than pedigree. The miners and ironworkers of Staffordshire began to foster the breed and their qualities of gameness, intelligence and loyalty were developed. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognised by the English Kennel Club in 1935.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. The average life span is 12-14 years.

Temperament
Bold, fearless and totally reliable with their owners.

The Staffie is a great family dog, ready to join in any family activity at home. Their boisterous nature and spirit give credit to the statement that "Staffords are the loveable rogues of the dog world." They do require training to learn manners and a well trained Stafford will do anything to please their human friends and can be relied upon, particularly with their family. However, never forget the Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s past as a fighting dog. That game spirit is still present in Staffords today. You have nothing to fear personally from a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, his fighting past was purely as a combatant and not as an aggressor to man, however, Staffords can be intolerant of other dogs and the consequences can be dire. Always walk your Staffie on a lead.

Breed Description
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a compact and active breed who loves his family. Staffords are not big dogs, however, they have great strength for their size and although muscular, they should be active and agile. You cannot overestimate how determined or how powerful this breed can be.  Accepted colours are black, brindle, red, fawn, blue and any of these colours with or without white

Coat and Care Requirements
The Stafford has a short, tight coat which does not require a high level of grooming.  Brush occasionally, with bathing as required.  Staffords need companionship, training and exercise, with particular care taken in the company of other dogs.

Size
Height: 36 to 41cms (14 to 16ins).

Weight: Males 13 to 17kgs, Females 11 to 15.4kgs.

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed health and what health testing the breeder does.

Suitability
Staffords are a fantastic breed for owners who will make their dog a part of the family. They are equally happy to cuddle on the couch, play frisbee or go jogging on the lead. Staffords thrive when included in everyday family life. They can be very destructive when bored and should not to be left alone for long periods of time.  Staffies only suit responsible owners who are make sure they are under control and on a lead when they are out in public.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/59