subject: So Staffordshire Bull Terriers make good pets? [print this page] Stocky strong and very muscular, the Staffordshire Terrier or Staffy for short, is one of the breeds referred to as a Pit Bull. The mention of Pit Bull evokes strong opinions and emotions in people, mostly due to misunderstanding and incomplete media reports. Staffy's are boldly courageous and have strength well beyond their stature. The Staffy's head is of medium length and very broad with muscular cheeks often giving the dog the appearance of having a big smile. Staffy's have a head which is proportionally larger than other dogs of their stature. Their ears are on the smallish side, sitting high up on the head, some breeders choose to crop the ears which I oppose. Their Dark brown or almost black eyes are set wide in the skull. The body is completely muscled and covered with short stiff easily managed hair. Their wide set front legs give the dog great stability and a poweful appearance. A medium to short tail completes the Staffy's handsome prone. These dogs can be just about any colour.
The character of the dog belies its false reputation as being aggressive, and the term pit bull stuck because the breed was used in the fighting pits. Staffys, like most dogs can bite or attack if provoked. Dingos, german shepherds, malamutes, rottweilers, fox terriers, kelpies, dobermans and just about most other breeds have been reponsible for injuries if not trained and cared for properly. Restrictions on breeding and ownership of the breed are prevelant around the world. Complete education on the subject is vital before classifying these dogs. These incidents were almost universally the result of brutal treatment or training by thoughtless owners. Staffys are a loyal, intellingent and eager to please. Combined with the dogs sheer power, it is easy for a malicious owner to want to instill aggression into the dog.
The fact is this. The Staffy is a friendly, docile and inteligent dog. Their gregarious nature is such that they do not make good guard dogs. They would much rather lick than growl. A fair criticism is that they can sometimes be agressive to other dogs if not properly trained. This can be controlled through obedience training plus early and regular socialization with other dogs. Loyal, devoted and eager to please is an honest description of these animals. Staffys can be somewhat exitable. They are full of love and energy.
Care: All sub breeds of the Staffordshire Terrier need a good deal of regular exercise. Their idea of fun is a brisk walk or a play and a run out in the open. Pit Bulls are generally easy to train(especially when they are young. Pay attention to firmly discourage any aggressive behaviour in your dog during their first year. Due to its short coat, Staffys are only suited to living outside in warmer climates. By all accounts they definitely prefer being close to their pack and live indoors. Their short coarse coat makes brushing easy. It is also easier to locate ticks if they are prevelant where you live. Every week or so, simply brush your Staffy with a stiff bristled brush.
Known health issues in the breed include canine hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, cerebellar ataxia, hypothyroidism and heart disease. Staffies are really rocket powered, with some suffering gas problems. Keep an eye out for skin cancer on their tummy, as they have few hairs to protect it from the sun.
Size and weight:
Average Height range: 32 to 42cm
Body Weight: 9 to 17.5 kg
Life span: 10 to 15 years
So Staffordshire Bull Terriers make good pets?
By: Marc
welcome to Insurances.net (https://www.insurances.net)
