Breed History

There are many authorities over the years to write a history of this sensational breed. I do not for one moment suggest that I am one of those authorities, instead, what you are about to read on the breed is sourced from others. Hopefully, there will be enough information to satisfy a curiosity, if not some more internet surfing, or see if you can track down some good book. Suggested authors are a John F Gordon, Vic Pounds and Mike Homan book.

Origins of the breed
(Source: SBT Lines & Families, etc HN Bielby BSc, 1953)

Dog-fighting, as distinct from bull-baiting, began in the early 17th century when royal patronage was withdrawn from baiting, and for the ensuring period of 100 years the only dogs used for fighting were the bulldogs of the period which were gradually decreased in size from 90 pounds and over to around 50 pounds.

About the year 1800, an attempt was made to improve the fighting dog by increasing his dash and agility, without in any way sacrificing his courage and tenacity; this was accomplished by crossing the bulldog with the smooth-coated "old English terrier", now extinct, which was an active dog, quick in its movements, and with all the instincts of the terrier to kill. This cross had the desired effect and from 1800 until 1835, when dog-fighting was made illegal, this bull and terrier cross gradually replaced the bulldog as a fighter.

These dogs were somewhat variable in size and build, as some owners preferred the lighter and more terrier-like animals, while others pinned their faith to those approximately more closely to their bulldog ancestor, but in general, they were smaller than the bulldog, weighing perhaps from 30 to 40 pounds, and the muzzle was lengthened.

Round about 1850 the Staffordshire (or as it was called then, the ‘Bull and Terrier’) was bred with the White English Terrier, and possibly other breeds (such as the Dalmatian), from which by selection the Bull Terrier (white) was evolved. About the turn of the 20th century, breeders decided to produce a coloured dog shaped like a "white", so they crossed the latter back to its ancestor, the Staffordshire, and by selection for the type required, succeeded in perfecting the coloured Bull Terrier.

After the Act prohibiting fighting was passed in 1835 dog fighting declined, though it still continued to a lesser degree until a much later date; and in certain districts - notably South Staffordshire (the Black Country) - the breed was extensively bred among the local miners, chain-makers and iron-workers; and generally acquired the name of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, under which title it was accepted for registration with the Kennel Club in 1935.

Characteristics and Temperament Every pure-breed dog has a ‘Breed Standard’. Within that Standard there is reference to what are the characteristics and temperament of the dog. The following is that of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and some expert comment.

Characteristics: Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity. Highly intelligent and affectionate, especially with children.

Temperament: Bold, fearless and totally reliable.

H N Bielby writes: “Generally speaking, the Stafford is not indiscriminately aggressive towards other dogs, but, if challenged, usually responds with cheerful alacrity. His memory is long and, if he has once been insulted by a member of any other breed, he will harbor a dislike for all members of that breed; if he encounters a member of that breed in the show-ring, he must be expected to express his disapproval of it in a characteristic manner and this is NOT a reaction to be penalized as long as his handler is in full control of him. It must be remembered that dogs that are quiet and peaceable when loose are often much less so when on leads. Staffords differ widely in their reactions; some will bark and growl at a dog which has annoyed them, others wait quietly, often appearing to be half-asleep, and when the other dog gets too close, will 'go in' in traditionally style, taking owners and victims completely by surprise. For this reason, sensible experienced exhibitors of Staffords will not allow their dog - or bitches, anywhere near other exhibits unless they are quite certain that they can do so safely.

It must here be strongly emphasized that Staffords are the most friendly and tractable of dogs where humans are concerned and with children, they are unsurpassed for their good nature; it is only when challenged by an adversary should they show their traditional toughness.”

A W A Cairns (Constones) wrote in 1982 to the Southern Counties journal "The Stafford": "It now seems that Temperament is being equated with Aggression. The UK Southern Counties Club motto is "Nemo me impugn lacessit" - no one provokes me with impunity, although I prefer another Latin tag which means "Slow in anger, resolute in action". Both mean that a Stafford is not an aggressor.

I have always properly taken the greatest care to see my Staffords have been well behaved in the show-ring and as a judge, expect such behavior even remonstrating to handlers who cannot control their exhibits. A good Stafford is not a lunatic so why should they be permitted to behave like one in the ring, or anywhere else for that matter? Whilst a judge should penalize heavily any signs of shyness or nervousness he should not permit uncontrolled aggression."

HISTORY:   The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was developed in the early 1800's to satisfy the desires of men involved in the sports of bull and bear baiting.
He was refined over the years and came into his own after 1835, when the sport of dog fighting reached its peak.   Dogs were selected for their fighting ability and not their beauty.   A wide variety of sizes and weights abounded, ranging from small 12 pounders to heavyweights of 60 pounds or more.   These dogs were known by many names:-m Bull Terriers, Pit-dogs, Bull-and-Terriers.   Dogs were matched weight for weight in the pit in fights that sometimes lasted several hours.   The courage, tenacity and skill required in such a canine gladiator is what earned the breed respect and admiration from its followers.

Dogs were still being fought in the first half of the 20th century and it was not until 1935 when the Staffordshire Bull Terrier was officially given his name and recognition as a breed.

CHARACTER:   It is these attributes of the fighting dog, bred selectively. which make our breed stand out today.   He may be best described as a "Jekyll & Hyde: character, when understood correctly.   The true Stafford is devoted to people despite his aggressive tendencies towards other dogs.   He is a positive and honest breed.   Do not mistake his stubbornness for stupidity; the Stafford is a determined dog in his actions, whatever they are, are seldom restrained.   He may need a firmer hand and a greater patience in training, but if you remember that his greatest desire is to be with and please YOU, then the first barrier is broken.;

Few Staffords "feel" or accept fear.   This indifference extends to his attitude to pain, and both are directly related to his past.   He is a game dog, full of spirit and able to endure.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier usually adapts to change with little fuss.   He accepts those who accept him.   He is a hardy breed and suffers from few ailments.   The Stafford will take as much or as little exercise as you give him.   The best exercise is on hard ground on a lead.   With his special tolerance and love for people, the Stafford is an ideal family odg, particularly in his sufferance of the cruelties children sometimes inflict on pets.

It is wise to remember though, that the Stafford was bred as a fighting dog to fight OTHER DOGS, and the prudent owner will remember this when introducing the Stafford to any other dog or neighborhood animal.   This does not mean he will go out of his way to provoke a fight, but that he will not back down if he feels an animal is a threat to him.   Each dog must be considered as an individual as to what constitutes "enough" provocation for the Stafford to react.   Experience and familiarity will help you assess your own dog's limits.
 

Club History

Written by Mr. Ted Kirk,
first Published in 1985

In a little over a decade in South Australia there has been a gradual rise in the number of Staffords being bred and shown. From a small start, when there were times when only one Stafford would be entered in a show the number of enthusiasts has grown to such an extend that numerically the Staffordshire Bull Terrier tops the Terrier Group entries on many occasions. In the winning list the Staffords figure more prominently than any other Terrier.

A major break through for the breed happened in 1975 when Ch. Crossguns Oliver did what was thought to be the impossible and he won Best Terrier Exhibit at a Championship Show. The outstanding quality, soundness and incredible personality for this dog fired the imagination of the judges and the viewing public alike. Because of him, Staffords began to gain the recognition they so richly deserved. Ch. Crossguns Oliver went on winning at Group and in-show level until his retirement in 1978. Today it is a regular occurrence for Staffords to win top awards, shared by many dogs and bitches in this State. Over the years with the gradual rise in popularity of the breed the idea of forming a breed club was discussed many times. It was not until 1982 that a positive move was made by Mrs. Lyn McKittrick and Mrs. Vicky Menzies when a meeting was held at Lyn's home and on that night the nucleus was formed for the present club.

Later a more formal meeting was held and this was attended by most enthusiasts and a committee was elected. This was in September 1982 during the Adelaide Royal and it was fortunate that Mrs. Linda Szirer, secretary of the Victoria Stafford Club was in Adelaide and was able to contribute much valuable information on the workings of a breed club. It was with complete approval of the gathering that Mrs. Linda Szirer and Mrs. Marion Forester were made the clubs Patrons.

Today the breed is alive and well, whilst breeding stays along the lines of correct balance between bull and terrier, the correct type will be maintained. Breeders can make or break a breed and whilst people bear in mind a sound, balanced bold dog, the Stafford will always have admirers.