Prior to the eighteenth century, bloodsports were a common form of entertainment. Terriers and Bulls were bred for this sport. These fighting dogs were selectively bred and trained from an early age to be spirited or full of fight. These aggressive characteristics, called gameness, gave the fighting dog the ability to continue an attack regardless of his own injuries. These dogs have been known to fight with broken bones, large wounds, dehydrated and tiredness. Staffordshire Bull Terrier breeders of today will tell you that the modern dog of this breed is eager to please, loving and a good companion for families, including those with children.
In recent years the press has reported attacks on humans by dog described as Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Because of the UK Dangerous Dog Act that makes it illegal to own pit bull terriers, many Staffordshire Bull Terrier breeders believe that owners of the attacking dog have miss led the public as far as the true breed (untruthfully claiming that it is a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, when it is actually a pit bull), due to fear of being prosecuted. The actual temperament of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier includes courage and intelligence along with a quiet, trustworthy personality. This dog is loving and naturally fond of humans. It is thought, that if a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is actually at fault in an attack the blame should be placed on the owner. If taken care of properly and raised well this is a great companion. However, this dog could be trained to be aggressive towards others.
The average dog is fourteen to sixteen inches tall at the highest point of the shoulders and weighs between twenty four and thirty two pounds. This is a medium sized dog with a muscular build. It has a very short coat that can come in a multitude of colors, including black, brindle, red, fawn, blue, white or a combination of any of the listed colors. Staffordshire Bull Terrier breeders are very responsible when it comes to trying to prevent the spread of the common health problems that this breed can face. These conditions can be tested for. One condition is cataracts and DNA testing can tell if a dog is pre - disposed to this ailment. Two other conditions must be followed by ocular exams throughout the life of the dog, one has to do with ‘double eye lashes’ and the other the vascularity of the eye. Both, if found and not treated, can interfere with the dog’s vision.
If you are considering purchasing a dog of this breed, do your research. Make sure you known how to treat and raise them. Also, ask you Staffordshire Bull Terrier breeder about the necessary testing for ailments. Be sure that you go to a reputable breeder to purchase this dog.
