Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The history of its molosser and mastiff ancestors dates back to circus games under Caesar and fights against bulls. Throughout history, these dogs were crossed with terriers and bulldogs to create a more agile, enduring and courageous breed. At one time, dog fights were a popular form of entertainment in England. These fights were called Bull Baiting and took place in special arenas called Bull-rings. Staffordshire Bull Terriers were born from this culture, as they were used to fight against bulls, bears, donkeys, boars and sometimes even lions and panthers. In 1835, under pressure from animal protection movements and the Queen of England, dog fights were officially banned in England. However, it would take several more years before these activities completely disappeared. Unfortunately, the difficult living conditions of urban workers in 19th century England led them to cruel pastimes such as dog fighting, despite the ban. Staffordshire Bull Terriers were the result of crosses between Bulldogs and various terrier dogs such as the White Terrier and the Manchester Terrier. These dogs proved to be both powerful, agile, enduring and loyal to their owners. They became very popular among the working class, serving as both fighting dogs, vermin hunters and family companions. This type of dog, named Half and half or Bull and terrier or English pitbull or Sporting bull terrier, is the ancestor of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The breed was officially recognized in 1935, thanks to the efforts of breeder Joe Dunn, at the first Staffordshire Bull Terrier exhibition at the "Old Cross Gun." A standard was then defined, and it was on June 15, 1935 that the breed was officially recognized by the Kennel Club. This helped improve the reputation of the breed, which had been tarnished due to its background in dog fighting. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has since become a loving and loyal companion dog, while retaining its courage and determination.

Traditionally, this breed is known for its unwavering courage and unequaled tenacity. Endowed with remarkable intelligence, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a bold, fearless and trustworthy companion. The history of this breed has been marked by sometimes conflictual interactions with other dogs and different animals. It is imperative to emphasize that the training of this breed should not be taken lightly due to its considerable strength.

Measuring between 35.5 and 40.5 cm at the withers, with a weight of 11 to 15.4 kg for females and 12.7 to 17 kg for males, the Staffie is a true concentration of power and liveliness. Its morphology is accompanied by surprising agility and suppleness for a dog of its size. Compact and muscular, the Staffie displays well-defined musculature under taut skin. A broad chest, curved ribs, a straight back, and front limbs slightly apart give it a robust and athletic appearance. The head of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one of its most distinctive features. Strong, short, and high, it possesses a broad skull, short muzzle, pronounced stop, and well-developed cheek muscles. Its jaws are strong with scissors bite, and prognathism is strictly avoided. The nose is black, and the eyes, round and ideally dark, are positioned frontally, adding a charming touch to its expression. The Staffie's coat is smooth, short and tight, and its color can vary. It can be red, brindle, black, blue, solid or patched with white. However, black and tan as well as brown are non-standard colors.