If you’re thinking of getting a Staffordshire bull terrier puppy, you have to keep in mind that cute puppy eyes can be deceiving. That’s why you have to make sure that you get to know a dog breed first before buying or adopting. Having a dog is a great big adventure and you’re going to want to go on that journey prepared. Knowing what to expect is a good way of preparing, ensuring that you and your new furry friend have loads of fun together.
The basics
The Staffordshire bull terrier is a short-coated, medium-sized, old-time dog breed. As an English dog, it is the fifth most popular of the dog breeds around. Descending from dog-fighting ancestors, a Staffordshire bull terrier puppy will grow up to be courageous and muscular, although it is very close to people and is not known to have outbursts. The adults look very similar to American pit bull terriers and the American Staffordshire terrier since they have the same ancestors. They have wide heads but feature relatively short forefaces, with wide mouths, dark round eyes, small ears, pronounced cheek muscles, and firm lips. They can come in the colors white, blue, fawn, red, black, brindle, and a blend of any of these with white. A Staffordshire bull terrier puppy will also be a joy to hug because they have very smooth coats.
General temperament
Like all dogs, Staffordshire bull terriers will have their own individual personalities, which you can blame on breeding for the most part. However, Staffords are generally noted to be highly intelligent, indomitably courageous, and tenacious. Combine these traits with being affectionate, quiet, and stable and you can expect to have an all-around dog. The dog breed is muscular so it will look intimidating, but they are very fond of people. That’s also a reason why most Staffords are not suited for guard dog duties. Should you get a Staffordshire bull terrier puppy, you’ll be very pleased to know that this dog breed is easy to handle when it comes to housetraining.
Some health concerns
The Staffordshire bull terrier is reported to be at risk of mastocytoma at rates higher than most of the dog population. There are also certain conditions that can be detected through DNA and visual testing. As with any dog breed, Staffords should be given proper deworming in order to flush parasites out before they are three weeks old.
Staffy Training…
