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There are many FAQ's available for this group. For a complete
listing of these, get the "Complete List of RPD FAQs". This article
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==========
Staffordshire Bull Terriers
Author
Becky Taylor McGovern, December 7, 1994 (
[email protected])
This article is Copyright 1995-1996 by Becky Taylor McGovern.
Revisions:
* Updated April 1996 with new addresses; added Canadian club
contact.
_________________________________________________________________
Table of Contents
* Introduction
* AKC Breed Standard
* History
* Characteristics and Temperament
* Care and Training
* Medical Problems
* Frequently Asked Questions
* Resources
+ Books
+ Periodicals
+ Breed Welfare
+ Parent Club
+ Breeders
_________________________________________________________________
Introduction
The following is meant to introduce the uninitiated to the
Staffordshire Bull Terrier. It isn't intended to be an in depth
dissertation on breeding or training. Anyone wishing to pursue either
topic should refer to the books and magazines listed under References
in this FAQ.
_________________________________________________________________
AKC Breed Standard
The Standard is the physical "blueprint" of the breed. It describes
the physical appearance and other desired qualities of the breed
otherwise known as _type_. Some characteristics, such as size, coat
quality, and movement, are based on the original (or current) function
for the dog. Other characteristics are more cosmetic such as eye
color; but taken together they set this breed apart from all others.
The Standard describes an _ideal_ representive of the breed. No
individual dog is perfect, but the Standard provides an ideal for the
breeder to strive towards.
Because of copyright concerns over the collection of all the Standards
at any single site storing all the faqs, AKC Standards are not
typically included in the Breed faqs. The reader is referred to the
publications at the end of this document or to the National Breed Club
for a copy of the Standard.
_________________________________________________________________
History
Although there has been some discussion through the years about the
origin of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, authorities generally agree
that the breed can be traced back to the Mastiff-like dogs through the
old Bulldog which, when crossed with British terriers, produced the
first "Bull and Terriers." Books published in the early 1800s which
refer to "Bull and Terriers," "Pit Dogs," and "Fighting Dogs" confirm
that the cross existed at that time.
The old-fashioned Bulldog was a fierce, courageous animal used in the
"sports" of bear and bull baiting as early as the mid-sixteenth
century. When these "sports" fell from public favor and were outlawed,
their supporters turned to dog fighting and sought to create a
sporting dog that, while retaining the legendary courage and ferocity
of the Bulldog, would incorporate the greater agility of the terrier.
Terriers thought to have been used in the cross are the Manchester
Terrier and the now-extinct English White Terrier. In addition,
crosses with various of the old working terriers were made.
Because of the attentions of different groups of English fanciers, two
distinct types of Bull and Terriers arose and by 1900, they were
easily distinguished. James Hinks' elegant white dogs, produced by
crossing the old Pit Bull Terrier with the English White Terrier (and
some say Pointer and Dalmatian), were recognized by the Kennel Club
(England) and the American Kennel Club at the turn of the century.
This "White Cavalier" is known today as the Bull Terrier. The other
Bull and Terrier - the Stafford, which was owned by the common man -
was not as easily "legitimized."
Fanciers of the "working class dog" met in England in 1935 to form a
club for Staffordshire Bull Terrier fanciers and draw up a Breed
Standard. In 1938, the first Championship Points were awarded in
Birmingham. The first Staffordshire Bull Terriers brought to the
United States lived their lives out simply as companions; it was not
until 1975 that the American Kennel Club recognized the Staffordshire
Bull Terrier as a registerable breed that could be shown outside of
the Miscellaneous Classes. The first SBT to be registered in the
American Kennel Club Stud Book was the dog, an English Import,
Champion Tinkinswood Imperial; the first American Champion was a bitch
- the Australian import Northwark Becky Sharpe.
_________________________________________________________________
Characteristics and Temperament
Although individual differences in personality exist, there are some
things that you can expect to find in the personality of every
Stafford. They are tough, courageous, tenacious, stubborn, curious,
people-loving and comfort-loving, protective, intelligent, active,
quick and agile. They are extremely "oral" youngsters and need a safe
alternative to furniture, toys and clothing for their busy jaws.
Staffords love to play tug-of-war and to roughhouse, but YOU must set
the rules and YOU must be the boss. This is not a difficult task if
you begin working with your Stafford when she is a puppy.
Most Staffords, particularly bitches, make excellent watchdogs. Their
alert, musclebound appearance is so striking that it's easy to forget
that they are smaller than most American Pit Bull Terriers. As Steve
Eltinge in the book, The Staffordshire Bull Terrier in America says,
"When a Stafford shows its teeth in a snarl, it can be frightening."
They look tough and can be a positive deterrent to thieves, but
because of their natural fondness for people, most Staffords are
temperamentally ill-suited for guard or attack-dog training." As with
other members of the Bull and Terrier family, they can be the biggest
people lovers in the world!
A Staffordshire Bull Terrier desires, more than anything else, to be
with her people. Most adore a car ride, going on hikes and walks,
enjoying a romp up the beach, and cozying up (or on) to you when you
settle down for an evening of TV or reading.
Whatever the activity, "from the time it awakens in the morning until
the quiet of night, a Stafford lives life to the fullest." (_The
Staffordshire Bull Terrier_, by Steve Eltinge)
_________________________________________________________________
Care and Training
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are a "natural" dog and generally robust.
The short coat of this breed requires little grooming other than an
occasional brushing and a bath. The downside of this drip dry coat is
that Staffords are susceptible to fleas and ticks. The general
remedies to discourage fleas and ticks are recommended, as well as a
thorough going-over with a flea comb during the worse months of
summer. Staffords covet human attention to the extent that I have seen
several of them gather around their "person", waiting to be combed
from head to tail for fleas!
Care of nails, ears, teeth and anal glands are the same as they would
be for any other breed (beginning when young and attention on a
regular basis).
The Stafford is not a dog that tolerates weather extremes easily.
Because of its short coat, it prefers plenty of shade and water on
sweltering summer days (a child's wading pool has been a popular
choice in the past; supervised of course). Its Bulldog ancestry and
brachycephalic (short-headed or broad-headed) respiratory system can
contribute to overheating. Watch carefully to be sure that your
Stafford doesn't become overheated during intense play in the summer;
if she appears to be wheezing or gasping for air, find the nearest
source of cold water and soak her to lower her body temperature.
Staffordshire Bull Terriers can boast a number of obedience degrees
and are "quick studies," provided the trainer utilizes a positive,
creative approach. Staffords are smart with a capital S. Young puppies
enrolled in Kindergarten Puppy Training classes can begin to learn
good habits and mix with other puppies. In addition to AKC obedience
competition, Staffords have been successful Therapy Dogs, participated
in Agility Competitions and even "gone to ground" with other terriers!
Staffords are exuberant, impulsive, sometimes bull-headed ... and
surprisingly sensitive. A trainer must learn to be persistent,
patient, and firm. Rome wasn't built in a day and a great deal of
ground may be lost in trying to adhere to the sort of inflexible
techniques and rigid timeframe advocated by some training books.
Excellent training suggestions are provided in some of the resource
books listed in this FAQ, and in the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club,
Inc.'s magazine, Staff Status, which includes a regular training
column in each issue.
Basic obedience training (at the very least) is a must for any Bull
and Terrier. It helps to maintain control in unexpected situations.
Because of their impulsive natures, the other cardinal rule of Bull
and Terrier ownership is "always think ahead." An ounce of prevention
is worth a pound of cure!
_________________________________________________________________
Medical Problems
Although relatively problem-free, Staffordshire Bull Terriers
sometimes exhibit hereditary problems and susceptibilies that can
range in degree of seriousness from mild to life-threatening:
Brachycephaly
Any brachycephalic (short- or broad-headed breed such as the Bulldog)
may be prone to breathing problems because of foreshortening of the
nasal passage. Cleft palate is sometimes found in puppies and such
puppies are usually humanely destroyed; they cannot draw milk properly
and if not abandoned by their dam, may starve. Some dogs are born with
an elongated soft palate. If not extreme, it may not be noticeable or
bothersome to the dog. However, extreme cases identifiable by
respiratory distress and infection, stentorian breathing and
difficulty in eating can be corrected surgically. This surgical
procedure renders a dog ineligible to be shown in AKC-sanctioned
conformation classes.
Congenital Epilepsy
Congenital epilepsy occurs at 3 to 5 years, and can result from
trauma. Although little understood, once diagnosed, it can be
controlled with medication.
Juvenile Cataracts
Although cataracts are considered an affliction of older dogs, some
Stafford pups develop them. The condition should be diagnosed by an
eye specialist.
_________________________________________________________________
Frequently Asked Questions
_What's the difference between an (American) Staffordshire Terrier and
a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, (English) Bull Terrier or Pit Bull
Terrier?_
Some eight or nine varieties of dogs come within the general
classification of Bull Breeds. Although all lay claim to the
Bulldog as a common ancestor, there are physical differences that
make each distinct from the other:
* Size - The American Staffordshire Terrier is a much larger,
leggier dog - often twice the size of a Staffordshire Bull
Terrier! The Bull Terrier standard does not include size
restrictions and dogs from 35 to 100 pounds have been seen.
However, the breed generally weighs in between 40 and 55 pounds,
making it larger then the Stafford. Pit Bull Terriers also range
widely in size; the early breeders preferred a smaller dog the
size of a Stafford and today the American Pit Bull Terriers which
are registered and exhibited seem to run on the smaller side.
Others, dually registered as American Staffordshire Terriers with
the AKC (Pit Bull with UKC) are larger.
* Ears - The American Staffordshire Terrier is exhibited in the
United States with cropped ears, as are some Pit Bull Terriers.
The ears of the Bull Terrier are naturally erect and supposed to
be thin and erect. Erect(or prick) ears are a serious fault in
Staffords, whose ears should be "rose" (like those of an English
Bulldog) or half-pricked.
* Head - The heads of American Staffordshire Terriers, Pit Bulls and
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are similar, although the cheek
muscles on most Staffords seem to be more pronounced, and the head
deeper through. The head of the Bull Terrier is entirely
different. When viewed in profile, it resembles an egg turned on
its side and is much longer than that of the Stafford. The cheeks
of a Bull Terrier are not pronounced.
_How are Staffordshire Bull Terriers with children?_
In England, the Stafford is known by the affectionate nickname,
"The Children's Nursemaid" or "The Nanny Dog." Their tolerance of,
and affection for, children is well known. That doesn't mean,
however, that it's a wise idea of put the puppy and child together
without supervision. Children should learn to respect the dog and
neither should indulge in play that is too rough. Some Staffords -
even the males - have a "mothering instinct" and will stick right
by the little ones, whether they are puppies or kids. A Stafford,
"tough" and not as quick to react to pain or discomfort, is likely
to make allowance for the attentions of toddler, finding a refuge
only when things become too overwhelming.
_Can I keep a Staffordshire Bull Terrier in an Apartment? How much
exercise will she require?_
Staffords can make a home with you anywhere; they are happy as long
as they are with you. They are an athletic dog, however, and need
more exercise than most dogs. Bursting with energy, they need
vigorous exercise every day! A long, brisk walk on leash (or
harness - a useful alternative for some) will give you both a
workout. Staffords love the heady freedom of being allowed offlead
for a run, hike or romp and it's delightful to watch them. Of
course, it's a good idea to make sure that they'll come back when
you call them, first.
_Are Staffords a noisy breed?_
Staffords, in general, are not noisy dogs. They may bark or "talk"
while playing, or to alert you of a visitor. However, they are
"quick studies" and if you have another dog in residence and THAT
dog is a barker, your Stafford will probably pick it up.
_Can I keep a Staffordshire Bull Terrier with another dog or with a
cat?_
Staffords, like members of any other breed, are individuals. While
some may live peacefully with other animals, some will not. Puppies
brought up with cats and other dogs generally do well. If bringing
an older Staffordshire Bull Terrier into your home, first introduce
the dogs away from the house in a neutral area. It should be easier
to bring a Stafford into your home than bringing a strange dog into
the home of a Stafford. Encounters should be supervised and the
dogs observed to determine how a heirarchy develops.
_Should I consider a male or a female?_
Both will offer much love and affection. Females tend to be better
watchdogs; males tend to be larger. No matter which sex you select,
spay or neuter if you have decided not to breed or exhibit your
Stafford.
_What sorts of toys are safe to give my Stafford?_
There are no such things as "indestructible dog toys" for Bull and
Terrier breeds. But some have tried these: Bowling balls or big
Nylabones. Anything else might be chewed up, swallowed or destroyed
in short order.
_________________________________________________________________
Resources
Books
Eltinge, Steve, _The Staffordshire Bull Terrier in America_,
Multi-Image Presentations, 1482 E. Valley Road, Santa Barbara, CA
93108, 1986.
Fleig, Dieter, _Staffordshire Bull Terrier_. Denlinger's Publishers
Ltd.
Gilmour, Danny, _The Complete Staffordshire Bull Terrier_. Ringpress,
1994.
Gordon, John F., _The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Owner's Encylopedia_,
Pelham Books Ltd., 1977.
Gordon, John F., _The Staffordshire Bull Terrier_, Pelham Books Ltd.,
1984.
Gordon, John F., _Staffordshire Bull Terriers_, W& G Foyle Ltd., 1964.
Gordon, John F., _The Staffordshire Bull Terrier_, Arco Publishing Co.
1975.
Morley, W. N., _This is the Staffordshire Bull Terrier_, TFH Pub.,
1982. The first part of the TFH version was published simultaneously
in England by David & Charles (Publishers) Limited, Brunel House,
Newton Abbott, Devon, England.
Nicholas, Anna Katherine, _Staffordshire Bull Terriers_, TFH Pub.,
1994.
Nicholas, Anna Katherine, _The Staffordshire Terriers_, TFH Pub.,
1991.
Pounds, V.H. & Rant, Lilian V., _Staffordshire Bull Terriers: An
Owner's Companion_. The Crowood Press, 1993.
Periodicals
Staff Status, The Magazine of The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club,
Inc. Available as a benefit of membership in the national breed club.
Breed Welfare
_Staffordshire Bull Terrier Rescue_
Tony George, National Rescue Chairman
60-36 68th Street
Maspeth, NY 11378
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club, Inc (US)
Linda Barker, Secretary
7914 Pelleaux Road
Knoxfille, TN 37938
Email:
[email protected]
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of Canada
Squibs Mercier, Honorary Life Vice President
Staffordshire Arms
972 Connaught Avenue
Ottawa, Ontario K2B 5M9
Breeders
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club, Inc. (US) maintains listings of
breeders throughout the United States. For assistance, contact:
Judy Keller
1956 Beachwood Drive, Freeland, WA 98249
_________________________________________________________________
Staffordshire Bull Terrier FAQ
Becky Taylor McGovern,
[email protected]
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