The Best All-Purpose Dog: The Staffordshire Bull Terrier
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When people hear the name Bull Terrier, it is inevitable that they have second thoughts about meeting this breed or worst, they shiver with the mention of its name in an instant. The violent and bloody history of this clan of dogs is rather unforgettable and thus when the name Staffordshire Bull Terrier is heard, many can't help but question if this breed is truly safe. Sad its history may sound but it does not apply to the modern Staffordshire Bull Terrier for it is none but loving, affectionate and docile creature to its master and his household.
The bull terrier's notoriety came from its tragic and unfortunate history. In 1800s England, the game called bull fighting is a flourishing past time for the nobles and the commoners. This game is composed of ferocious bull terrier dogs, which attacks and ultimately kills its opponent (a bull, bear or another dog) as a form of gambling, meat tenderization or just plain testing of the dog breed's prowess.
To create a dog that is a fighter inside the pit and a loving friend outside of it, is the main purpose for the development of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier in the regions of Staffordshire England. The breed brilliantly possessed a fearless, biddable, intelligent, loyal and loving disposition that it became popular in the bull fighting circuit. When the animal welfare law was approved in England, the bull fighting became illegal and was ultimately put to an end.
Now being popular as a companion dog, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier became popular as a household pet and was enjoyed by many people in England. In May 25, 1935 it became officially part of the UK Kennel Club and, at the same time, was introduced to the US. It never became as popular in the US and it was only in 1976 that it was officially registered by the US kennel clubs.
Other names for this breed are Staffie, Stafford, Staffros or Staff and it belongs to the same family tree as the American Pitt Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier. Physically, the Staffie manifests an intimidating facade but it in fact a loving and sociable dog towards people especially children. Many breeders and owners can attest that when it comes to affection and loyalty to the family, the Staffie ranks as the leader.
Because of its gentle temperament and biddable intelligence, the Staff is considered to be an all purpose family dog. In fact, although a bull-fighting dog descendant, the Staff is so less violent that it is not suited for attack-dog and guard dog positions. According to a 1996 study by Southampton University, the Staff ranks in the top 10 breeds most suitable for families especially children.
The Staffie is a natural athlete considering its muscular and well-rounded body. It also has a great strength, agility and stamina that it needs to be given an ample amount of exercise in order to continually encourage it to be active and healthy. If you are living in an apartment, owning a Staffie would be fine since it does not really have to play outside in a wide backyard.
The Staffie measures 14 to 16 inches in height and 24 to 32 inches in weight. It has a figure-tight, short and smooth coat and it additionally gives it a well-groomed and sinewy kind of appearance. The dog may come in colors of black, red, fawn, blue, white, brindle or any combination of these solid colors with white.
Article Source: Articlelogy.com
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