INTRODUCTION

So, maybe you have seen a Stafford at your local dog show, or maybe you have just seen one while happily walking down the street with his owner. You may have stated to yourself: “They sure are cute. I think I might like to have one of those.

If so, you’re about to depart on a wonderful new adventure as you search for just the right dog for you. It is incredibly important to do careful research on the Staffordshire Bull Terrier to be certain that this is the breed for you.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is not a breed for everyone. You may have had other dogs, maybe a Working breed like the German Shepherd, or maybe a Toy breed like the Chihuahua or maybe the Maltese. Or maybe you’ve had in the past a trusty mixed-breed companion that was your ideal friend, as well a friend to all and sundry, human and animal alike. Maybe you allowed this old dog of yours to frolic off leash where ever you went.

Please keep in mind that a Stafford isn’t a dog like these. A Stafford is a Terrier, with all the characteristics that this name implies – and then some.

A Staffordshire Bull Terrier isn’t a dog that should be granted to roam off leash, and he can sometimes be quarrelsome with other canines and small animals – this varies between individual dogs, but it is something that should always be kept in mind, particularly with adult (over two years of age) dogs. A well-bred and well-socialized Stafford is always a friend to every person he meets – so much so that he does not make a good guard or watch dog.

In short, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is not a dog for everyone.

Please do not buy a Stafford with the thought that if the dog does not work out for some reason, you can later get rid of it. A dog (of whatever breed) should never be considered as a “disposable commodity”. Either be prepared to make a lifetime commitment to your dog, or, please, do yourself and the dog a wonderful favor – do not get a dog – and particularly a Staffordshire Bull Terrier – at all.

Staffords are for life.

DISCOVERING THE STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIER

The Stafford is a small to medium sized dog of great strength and substance in relation to his size. He can truly be stated to be a “big dog in a small dog package”. He is extremely affectionate and loving, and many Staffords are great “talkers” using anpleasing variety of grunts, groans, chortles, and sighs to let their owners know exactly what they want and what they’re thinking.

However, the Stafford