The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is an energetic and strong breed of dog that is not meant for every family. The family that owns a Staffordshire needs to be strong and authoritative in order to keep control of the dog. When raised correctly and trained well, the Staffordshire can be a very loving and treasured part of the family.
History
According to the American Kennel Club, the history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier dates back to the 19th century, when coal miners in Staffordshire, England bred a bull dog with a terrier to result in a strong, fast breed now known as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Originally bred for dog-fighting, the Staffordshire was not recognized by the Kennel Club in England until 1935, when the fierce qualities originally present had been bred out. Staffordshires were believed to have been brought into America in the mid-1880s and were developed into taller, heavier dogs that are now called the American Staffordshire Terriers.
Appearance
Besides blue, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier can come in various colors including black, white, brindle, fawn and red. They have a smooth coat, with a height at the shoulder of 14 to 16 inches and a weight of 28 to 38 pounds for males and 24 to 34 pounds for females. Its head is made up of a broad skull with pronounced cheek muscles, black nose and a short foreface. This breed is very strong for their size.
The blue color is said to be a "blue dilute," according to bluepaulstaffords.com. The "blue" color results from a gene mutation from black, which results in a metallic blue-gray. Other breeds may also carry this color. However, depending on the breed and registry, the color may not be accepted in the breed standards. The blue color is accepted by the AKC and The Kennel Club (UK) for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Temperament
Staffordshires are friendly, active, fearless and curious. They are also very affectionate and typically love to meet new people. They are good with children and are very adoring of their own human family. They are very active and need a lot of exercise. They need to be socialized early and trained to know that their human family is their pack leader, otherwise they may be difficult to handle due to their strength and determination. They should have clear rules set that they must follow. The American Kennel Club states that the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a trustworthy dog full of courage, tenacity and high intelligence.
Health
Staffordshires have a life expectancy of 10 to 16 years. However, there are a few diseases that they are prone to, such as cataracts and hip dysplasia. Staffordshires may also have gas problems, as do most "bull-type" breeds of dogs.
Diet
Staffordshire Bull Terriers can be fed commercial dog foods, either hard or wet, or an appropriate raw food diet. The type of food and amount of food is dependent upon many things, including size, activity level, sex and age. Their diet should include sources of nutrients such as fatty acids, minerals, vitamins and the right balance of protein and carbohydrates. A veterinarian may be able to recommend the best diet for a Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
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