Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has become popular around the world for its courage and relationship with people, earning the nickname 'the nanny dog’ for its affinity with children
Staffordshire Bull Terriers, also known as Staffords, are the modern descendants of the ‘bull and terriers’ bred in the UK well into the 19th century as fighting, rat-catching and badger-baiting dogs.
Since first being registered as a show breed in 1935 the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has become popular around the world for its courage and relationship with people, especially its affinity with children which has earned it the nickname 'the nanny dog’.
Grooming and health
Staffies need very little grooming. An occasional once-over with a stiff brush to remove loose hair and an occasional bath is all that's generally required. An occasional treat of oily fish, such as a can of pilchards, sardines or a cod-liver oil capsule, will help make their coat especially shiny - as will lots of strokes.
Don't bathe them too much as this will remove the natural oils in their coat. A bath may be called for very occasionally if they become too smelly, in which case use a baby shampoo or a good dog shampoo and be very careful not to get soap in its eyes. Always make sure you dry your Staffie well, especially the underside of its belly which is virtually hairless. And don't forget to dry its tummy thoroughly when it's been out in the rain.
Staffies usually have healthy ears because their shape allows plenty of air to circulate. If it does get problems with wax or mites you'll be aware of an unpleasant smell. Don't be tempted to pour anything into its ear or use a cotton bud. Consult your vet who will advise on how to deal with it best.
The Staffie's survival-of-the-fittest-history means the breed is generally healthy, however it will need annual boosters for the usual canine diseases and a regular worming regime. Young animals, being headstrong, can be rather accident prone and you may want to take out insurance to cover vet bills.
Feeding
Most Staffies do not drop to one meal a day until they are between 18 months/ two years old. And some people continue to feed their dog a small ‘breakfast’ and a reduced evening meal throughout its life. The amount and type of food varies according to the individual dog and the owner’s lifestyle.
Here at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home we feed all our dogs on a mixed diet of wet and dry food kindly donated to us by Pedigree. Obesity in dogs is an increasing problem in the UK and it is essential that every dog, regardless of breed has a diet suited to its size and the amount of exercise it takes. If you have any concerns about your dog’s weight please discuss these with your vet.
Finally, don't forget that when feeding dog either canned or dry foods ample water must be available at all times.
Chewing
Staffies have powerful jaws and strong teeth and need to chew in order to keep them healthy. Young animals need to chew to help jaw development while adults chew to keep teeth clean and as an outlet for stress.
To avoid expensive damage to your belongings make sure you provide your dog with appropriate objects to chew. There is a huge variety available in pet shops. Avoid natural bones that can be broken causing small sharp pieces that can be swallowed – nylon bones are probably the best. Regular cleaning with a toothbrush and dog toothpaste is a good idea if you can get him used to the experience at a young age!
Dog training classes
If you're planning to attend a dog training class makes sure the class has been approved by the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). And before registering make sure you watch a class in progress to ensure you agree with its methods.
A list of recommended dog training classes in your area can be obtained from the APDT by phoning 01428 707620 or online at www.apdt.co.uk.
References and recommended reading
Pet Owner’s Guide to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier by Clare Lee, Ringpress Books
Ain’t Misbehavin’ by David Appleby, Broadcast Books
Why Does My Dog? by John Fisher, Bantam Books
Your local Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Club can be located through the Breed Council web site:
www.staffords.co.uk/breedcouncil/contact.htm
Breed clubs are not just for show dogs and their owners. Most club members are pet owners who don't show their dogs.
Useful contacts
Battersea’s Behaviour Advice Line
Tel: 0905 020 0222 (calls cost 25p per minute)
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home
4 Battersea Park Road
London SW8 4AA
Tel: 020 7622 3626
Fax: 020 7622 6451
Old Windsor
Priest Hill
Old Windsor
Berkshire SL4 2JN
Tel: 01784 432929
Fax: 01784 471538
Brands Hatch
Crowhurst Lane
Ash
Kent TN15 7HH
Tel: 01474 874994
Fax: 01474 872855
