Before You Buy - Is a Stafford the right fit?
Is a Staffordshire Bull Terrier the right breed for you and your family? Do you understand the true nature of the breed?
Despite their compact frame, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are energetic and muscular dogs who love to wrestle, tug, and chew, usually with great enthusiasm! To keep a Stafford truly happy, owners need to provide plenty of mental stimulation and training, as well as physical activity. A Stafford that has plenty of opportunity to chew on appropriate toys, play interactively with their owners, and practice obedience skills using force-free training techniques will make a happier and more well-mannered family member.
Staffords can be over-excitable and impulsive and have the tendency to throw their weight around and use their mouths in play. This boisterous and bouncy behaviour can put children at risk of being knocked over so, as with any dog, a Stafford should always be supervised and managed with children.
Speak to experienced owners before you decide. Also Breed Club secretaries will know of forth coming shows where you can meet Staffords and their owners. They may know planned litters from reputable breeders. They have first-hand experience with the breed so are a good source to answer questions about the breed’s health, temperament or anything Stafford related. Breed clubs such as ours should be the ‘first port of call’ for anyone looking for a Stafford puppy.
Remember if something doesn’t seem right don’t be fooled to rush in and buy! Always give yourself time to think about making the right decision – a reputable breeder will not push you into having one of their puppies. They will want to find out if you and their puppy will be well suited.
When given appropriate avenues to express their natural play styles and taught how to be calm around children and in the home, Staffords make fun and friendly family members. They are extremely loyal and loving. These qualities make them the foremost family companion.
