This breed can trace its ancestory back to before the nineteenth century when bloodsports such as bull and bear baiting were popular in the UK. The early ancestors of this breed were created by breeding bulldogs with various terrier breeds and were known as bull and terriers. In 1835, the UK started to introduce animal welfare laws, outlawing these bloodsports and since dogfights were easier to conceal from the law, they became more popular.
The ancestors of the modern Staffordshire Bull Terrier were expected to be docile with people as they were often handled during or immediately after fights. Dogs who would bite people would not have been included in breeding programs.
One of the characteristics of Staffordshire Bull Terriers is that they are often tenacious and persistent at completing a task. These are dogs who are likely to appreciate doing things that will challenge them. They are also dogs who have a strong bond with humans making learning something they often enjoy. In the UK, they are known to compete in a variety of sports and work for the police as sniffer dogs.
This is a versatile breed who is often physically robust and enjoys doing things with people. Almost any dog sport or activity you are interested in is likely to be interesting to your Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Enrichment puzzle toys will allow your Staffordshire Bull Terrier to take on and solve mental challenges.
Enrichment that allows your dog to safely dissect will be appreciated by many Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Cabbages and lettuces are often great for this activity because they can be safely shredded and if the dog eats pieces, they are safe.
Tug games are often fun for Staffordshire Bull Terriers but due to their tenacity, it is important that they are taught to play tug safely. Safe tug means that the dog doesn’t start the game unless a person invites them to and that they are able to stop on request.
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Predatory Motor Sequence statistics for Staffordshire Bull Terriers. The graph shows the percentage of Staffordshire Bull Terriers in my research study that had a strong level of interest in each behaviour.
Hunt: 40%
Orient: 37%
Eye: 23%
Stalk: 14%
Chase: 46%
Grab-bite: 46%
Possess: 31%
Kill-bite: 40%
Dissect: 46%
Consume: 26%
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I am the founder of Best Dog Learning and Stuff and a massive prey drive enthusiast. I've lived with high prey drive dogs for over 20 years and I love them. I run the awesome High Prey Drive Club where I help my members learn to have fabulous walks and happy lives with their high prey drive dogs.
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