Page 217 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

TERRIERS

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

HEIGHT WEIGHT LIFE SPAN Variety of colors
14–16in 24–37lb 10–16 years JOCK OF THE BUSHVELD
(36–41cm) (11–17kg)
Jock was a Staffordshire Bull Terrier belonging
to a man named Percy FitzPatrick, who worked
This fearless dog loves children and can achieve high in South Africa as a transport rider with a team
of oxen in the 1880s. Originally the runt of the
levels of obedience with correct handling litter, Jock (depicted engaging an antelope in
the bronze statue at Jock Safari Lodge, Kruger
Originally bred for dogfighting in the 19th The modern “Staffie,” as it is affectionately
National Park, South Africa, below) grew into
century, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier was known, is hugely popular in both city and a brave, loyal guard and hunter. He and his
developed in the English Midlands from country. This dog is robust and boisterous, owner had many adventures in the bush, which
crosses between Bulldogs (see p.95) and local and possesses legendary courage. Firm FitzPatrick recounted as tales for his children.
In 1907 he published the tales as Jock of the
terriers. The resulting dog, first known as handling and early obedience training are
Bushveld, and it is now a classic in South African
the Bull and Terrier, was small and agile but essential, but given an owner who is an
children’s literature.
strong, with powerful jaws. Although it had effective trainer, the Staffordshire Bull
to show courage and aggression when fighting Terrier will be an obedient and rewarding
in the dog pit, it needed to stay calm when pet. Unfortunately, in recent years the breed
handled by people. Even when bullbaiting has gained an unwarranted reputation as
and other “baiting” sports were banned a dangerous dog, which has led to many
in 1835, clandestine dogfights continued being abandoned and ending up in animal
until the 1920s. shelters. Although a Staffordshire Bull
During the 19th century one group of Terrier is likely to respond if challenged
enthusiasts sought to adapt the Bull and by an unfamiliar dog, the breed is typically
Terrier dog to create an animal more suitable friendly and sweet-tempered with people
for the show ring and family and has a particular affinity with children.
home. This modified breed,
Broad head with Semierect,
called the Staffordshire
distinct stop small ears
Bull Terrier, was officially
recognized by the UK
Kennel Club in 1935.
Dark rims
to eyes

Smooth,
PUPPY
Red short coat

Darker hair
Almost on muzzle
straight,
tapering
tail

Broad chest
with white
Powerful, markings
muscular body

White markings
on feet
Feet turn out slightly
from pasterns

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