The name Bull Terrier undoubtedly brings fear or second-thoughts to people due to its history of violence and aggression. However, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a member of the Bull and Terrier clan, is none of these negative assumptions. Truth is, while their history is composed of pit fighting, their present life is full of love, affection and obedience to its master and his family.

Everyone is well aware of the Bull Terrier breed’s unfortunate history. During the 18th century England, the blood game of bull fighting, wherein a viscous dog is ordered to attack bulls as a form of meat tenderization, is a popular past time and gambling arena for both royals and commoners. This event prompted the development of several breeds such as the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, which are apt for bull, bear and even dog-to-dog fighting.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is believed to have been developed in the region of Staffordshire England from the interbreeding of several Terriers and Bulldogs. This breed came out courageous, obedient, docile, athletic and loving, the characters which are perfect for both bull fighting and family companionship. The onset of animal welfare laws in England halted the despicable game of dog fighting and soon breeders were developing Bull Terriers for purely companionship purposes.

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.

This breed is also fondly called Staffie, Stafford, Staffros or Staff and is a cousin of the American Pit Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier. At a glance, the Staffie looks rather intimidating due to its muscular and courageous form but the truth is, it is very loving, obedient and is eager to please its master. Experts say that when it comes to loving a family and being loyal to them, the Staffie comes first among the rest.

Being gentle, intelligent, trainable and eager to please the master, the Staffie has been recognized as the best all-purpose family dog. Even though it came from a family which has a violent and loathed history, the Staffie’s gentleness is never suitable for being a guard dog or attack-dog. Moreover, according to Southampton University 1996 study, the Staffie is recognized as one of the top 10 breeds that are best suited for families especially children.

Its body is naturally stocky and muscular and it possesses great strength and agility. It has tremendous stamina and energy and therefore plenty of exercise are needed for it to be kept healthy and fit. Although it does not necessarily have to be freed in a wide backyard, the Staffie will do fine in an apartment kind of living so long as it gets a daily dose of walks.

Generally, the Staffordshire bull terrier stands 14 to 16 inches in height and weighs 24 to 32 pounds. Its coat is short, smooth and body-hugging and it gives the breed a polished and sinewy look. The breed may come in colors of black, red, fawn, blue, white, brindle or any combination of these solid colors with white.