STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIER:
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is highly intelligent and particularly affectionate towards children.  One of the most popular breeds in the UK and Australia, the “Staffie’s” courage and tenacity are legendary, as is his sound temperament and remarkable agility.  A handsome breed, the Staffordshire has a short, glossy coat and distinctive wide front and rose or half pricked ears. 

ORIGIN:
Descended from the “Bull and Terrier” of the early 1800’s, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier can count the Old English Terrier and Bulldog (which was lighter and more agile than the modern breed) as its heritage.
 
Older than the American Staffordshire and Bull Terrier, the breed originated in the ‘black country’ of Staffordshire, England, home to the famous potteries and coal mines.  He is thought to be the original Bull-baiting dog, an activity outlawed from 1835.  Despite his long history, the Staffordshire only gained official recognition from the English Kennel Club in 1935.
 

GENERAL APPEARANCE:
Well balanced and possessing great strength for his size, the Staffordshire has a short, deep, broad skull.  His pronounced cheek muscles, distinct stop and short foreface distinguish him from other breeds. The medium sized dark eyes are round in shape and set to look straight ahead.  His eye rims are dark.  The unmistakable Staffordshire ears are neither large nor heavy.  His muscular neck is rather short and clean in outline.  The forelegs are straight and well boned, set rather far apart.  He has a wide front, deep brisket and well sprung ribs.  The hindquarters are well muscled.  The tail, appearing like an old-fashioned pump handle, is a feature of this breed.
 
COAT COLORS:
are red, fawn, white, black or blue, or any of these colours with white.  Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white is also accepted.

SIZE:   Dogs 28 to 38lbs.  Bitches 24-34lbs.  Desirable height is 35.5cm to 40.6cm. 

TEMPERAMENT:
Staffordshires need to live in the house as a family dog and do not thrive in kennel conditions.  They are compact, bold, fearless and totally reliable.  The Staffordshire is a true gentleman, unless set upon by another dog.  Here he will not hesitate to have a ‘scrap’.  The breed is clean in habit and easily house trained. 

CARE AND GROOMING:
The close, short coat is easily maintained by a light brushing and occasional bath.  Firm handling is recommended from puppy hood as he has a mind of his own and an ability to think for himself.  The Staffordshire is amenable to training and discipline.