Living with a Stafford

by Griet Coetzer (Zeracious Staffords)

1.      A Stafford is NOT a natural guard dog. 
However he is unusually loyal to his people and will defend such without hesitation.

Many people new to the breed think that a Stafford is an ideal guard dog. That they are small enough in size to manage yet aggressive enough to protect their property. Our experience proves otherwise. Staffords thrive on attention, and will probably invite a stranger in! BUT if someone would threaten it's family a Stafford will fight to the death! Staffords do not appreciate violence in the home and gets very upset when there is a domestic.

2.      A Stafford IS A DEMANDING breed!
They demand attention! The more the better and if they don't get it - they often will get up to mischief such as roaming or digging... Most Staffords wants to be your shadow, they want to sit ontop of you, preferably. If you don't like a dog in your home, don't get a Staffordshire Bull Terrier. They hate to be left in the back yard. A Stafford is your friend, your loyal companion and your admirer. Their main aim is to please their master. They do tend to latch onto one member of the family more than others, but they are essentially a family dog.

3.      A Stafford is a low maintanence breed.
It's a medium sized dog - that eats a moderate amount. They have a short coat and only requires the odd brushing - once a week, which in fact will make their coats shine like velvet.

4.      Staffors are very strong for their size and not the sort of breed that you should be let off the lead in a busy public place. Traditionally a Stafford is expected to be able to defend itself, but not to attack other animals on sight. Staffords are brave (most dogs bite from fear); they are strong (many dogs will bite when they experience pain); but my experience is that a Stafford will remember a painful experience from the past and should be overseen around children.

5.      The only drawback of this breed is its tendency to retaliate when provoked or attacked. However this can be overcome by proper socialising.

6.      Staffords are prone to skin allergies (unfortunately).

7.      Staffords sleep most of their day but comes urly morning and/or late afternoon they charge around the garden like there is no tomorrow! This can be a problem when small children are around. 

8.      Staffords was originally bred to fight other dogs and although placid most of the time, it should stand it's ground when challenged. It's for this very reason that owners of Staffords must be responsible. A Stafford thrives on respect, guidance and a routine. Staffords must NEVER show aggression to humans and this must NEVER be tolerated or encouraged! Infact a Stafford is known to be brilliant with kids in particular!

If you are sure that you still want a Stafford, and you are fully prepaired to accept him "warts and all", it is always advisable to buy a pedigree dog. Unregistered, crossbred dogs are increasing in numbers and some may make excellent pets, but many may fall short of your expectations. We often get calls from such purchasers who find their attractive puppy to have grown into an adult that bears little resemblance to a Stafford. Some are too big to handle, others do not have the TEMPERAMENT of the breed! Sadly there are a few handsome ones that can't be shown because it's unregistered.