Family: Mastiff & Terrier
Breed Group: AKC Terrier
Origin: England
Date of Origin: 19th century
Originally used for: Fighting especially bull baiting
Used today: Show dog, Companion
Other Name(s):
History of the Breed: The name Staffordshire comes from the Black Country area of England where the breed originated. This breed
is the result of crossing the bulldog with a Terrier. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are brave, very strong, and fiercely tenacious. The breed
was developed for fighting and was primarily used to bait bulls and bears in the 19th century. When bull-baiting was outlawed in England
the dogs were pitted against each other and with other dogs for sport.
General Appearance: Short coated very muscular built dog with a low center of gravity. The head is short and deep with a broad
skull. The eyes are round and of medium size and are typically dark in color. A short muscular neck is carried on a body with a broad chest
and strong shoulders. The legs are strong boned and set wide apart. The tail is carried low and of medium length.
Height & Weight:
Height 14-16 Inches
Weight 24-38 Pounds
Coat: Smooth coated and close-lying.
Color: Colors can be red, white, blue, black, or fawn, or any of these colors with white
Grooming needs: Low
Temperament of Breed: This dog requires a firm hand and training. Begin socializing with other dogs and with non-family members
as a puppy if possible
Friendly with children: Good with children
Friendly with other dogs: This breed was initially bred to fight and can be very aggressive with other dogs. Careful training and
firm control are very important.
Suitability as a watchdog: Excellent
Exercise Level: Medium
Health Issues with the Breed:
Major: Cataracts, hip dysplasia, congenital heart disease
Minor:
Life Expectancy: 10 - 12 Years
2006 AKC Ranking: 80
First Registered by the AKC: 1974
Registries: CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR
ACR -American Canine Registry
AKC -American Kennel Club
ANKC -Australian National Kennel Club
APRI -American Pet Registry Inc.
CKC -Continental Kennel Club
CKC -Canadian Kennel Club
FCI -Fédération Cynologique Internationale
KCGB -Kennel Club of Great Britain
NKC -National Kennel Club
NZKC -New Zealand Kennel Club
UKC -United Kennel Club
Breed Organizations & Associations:
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club Of America (SBTCA)
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of Canada