Staffordshire Bull Terrier
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The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has come in for some bad press but a well trained Stafford can make a super companion.Group: Terrier
Size: Medium
Coat length: Short
Grooming required: Once a week
Coat sheds: No
Home size: Small or Large House
Garden size: Small/Medium
Lifespan: Over 10 Years
Exercise: Up to 1 hour per day
They are a compact dog, very muscular and strong with a broad, deep skull. Their short, smooth coat comes in red, fawn, white, black or blue or any of these colours with white, or any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white. Black and tan or liver colours are highly undesirable.
They were bred in the nineteenth century in England for the then popular sport of bull baiting.
Staffords approach everything with undaunted enthusiasm. They are fearless, persistent, intelligent, love a challenge and are obedient, affectionate and love people. Some like to chew and will chew through practically everything so their chew toys need to be well chosen. Socialisation with other animals is important, but they are people-friendly and excellent with children. They have a lot of energy and stamina and enjoy their exercise.
The short coat is easy to care for. It is imperative that breeding stock should be DNA tested or hereditarily clear of HC (Hereditary Cataract) and L-2-HGA (L-2 Hydroxyglutaric Acidurea) and should be clinically tested and unaffected by PHPV (Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous). These diseases, although not common, are known in the breed and with use of the DNA tests there is no need for Staffords to suffer from the conditions in future. Some Staffords can have skin problems, including demodex mange and allergies.