Staffordshire Terrier
English Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Old Bull and Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was originally developed for pit fighting against other dogs. Today it is kept as a companion animal that bonds closely with its human family.
Staffordshire Terrier Standards
- AKC (Terrier)
- FCI (Group 3)
- KC (Terrier)
- UKC (Terrier)
- 14-16"
- 124-138 lbs
- medium-sized breed
- rose or half-pricked ears
- medium length tail
- smooth, short coat is close to skin
- black
- blue
- fawn
- red
- may have white or brindle markings
History of the Staffordshire Terrier
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The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was developed in England shortly after the ban on cruel sports that was imposed in England in 1835. Since the popular bull-baiting had been outlawed men turned their Bulldogs on each other, but the dogs proved to be too slow for this new ‘sport’ and not very entertaining. It was believed a better fighting dog could be obtained by crossing them with terriers (most commonly the extinct Black and Tan) and the resulting dog was ugly, savage, and indeed, an excellent pit fighter. Today’s Staffordshire descends from these dogs, although selective breeding has altered both its appearance and temperament. The breed was not recognized by The Kennel Club (KC) until the 1930s due largely in part to the more popular (in the show ring) Bull Terrier. Although the two share ancestry, it is the Staffordshire that is closer in appearance to the original Bull and Terrier type. To differentiate the two and appease both sets of fanciers the old style or ‘real’ Bull Terrier breeders added the ‘Staffordshire’ part of their name to gain recognition.
Is the Staffordshire Terrier Right for You?
- gets along well with children
- may have difficulties with other dogs
- highly alert, makes a good watchdog
- can adapt to apartment life
- does not adjust well to hot climates
- short coat requires little care
- has a moderate activity level
- lives 11-12 years
- may develop eye problems