The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a medium sized, short coated, old time breed of dog, originally bred for bull and bear fighting.
History: The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was developed in the region of Staffordshire, England in the nineteenth century from crosses between Bulldogs and various Terriers. The Staffordshire Bull was developed for the then-popular sport of bull baiting. In the twentieth century, interest in the breed grew again, especially in the United States. It returned to the show ring in 1935. In the U.S. it is now well bred in a size slightly larger than that called for in the European standard.
Appearance: The Staffordshire Bull Terrier should be of great strength for its size and should be active and agile. Its frame is wide and slightly longer than it is tall, which accounts for its firm stance. The head is short, deep through, broad skull, very pronounced cheek muscles, distinct stop, short foreface, black nose. The eyes are preferable to be dark, but may bear some relation to coat color. The ears are either rose or half-pricked. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a soft, sleek, dense, and short coat that lays close to the body. Numerous colors and combinations of colors allowed: red, fawn, white, black, blue or any of these colors in combination with white, or brindle with or without white. Black and tan and liver are not allowable colors in the show ring.
Size: Height: dogs - 14-16 inches (36-41cm); bitches - 13-15 inches (33-38cm)
Weight: dogs - 25-38 pounds (11-17kg); bitches - 23-35 pounds (10-16kg)
Temperament: This terrier breed is playful, friendly and loyal to its family. It is responsive to its owner and good with children except for a tendency to jump on smaller kids. It is extremely courageous and obedient, affectionate with a sense of humor. It is usually friendly toward strangers, but aggressive with strange dogs. Although the Staffordshire bull terrier will not look for a fight, it will stand its own if approached or attacked. They are exceedingly protective of their family and make excellent guardians and watchdogs. They are not suited for homes with other dogs or household pets they have not been raised with. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is not recommended for the novice dog owner.
Health: Watch for breathing problems, epilepsy, cherry eye, juvenile cataracts, entropian, PHPV. Like all the bully type breeds, Staffordshire Bull Terriers often have gas problems.
Life expectancy: 10-16 Years
Grooming: 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.
Puppy price: $250.00 – $1.500.00