It is suggested that much of the work to achieve the high-profile status of a kennel club breed was done at a Staffordshire fanciers meetings at the Cross Guns Hotel in Cradley Heath (this was once part of south Staffordshire before the county borders were changed). About fifty breeders met at the club and formed the original Staffordshire Terrier Club.

Unwanted

Unfortunately today, the Stafford is often demonised because of links to the more aggressive fighting dog, the pit bull, and antisocial behaviour by disaffected people who select 'Bull Terrier' types as 'status animals' and use them as tools of intimidation to maintain their own 'territories'.  

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has become a victim of it's own success. In addition to the responsible owners who have to give their Staffie up to a rescue, due to a change in their financial or relationship situations, and do so only as a last resort. Irresponsible breeding practices coupled with people who purchase puppies on little more than a whim have lead the Stafford and Bull Terrier crosses to be in the 'Top Ten' most unwanted breeds of dog in rescue.

Statistics provided by the RSPCA show that the Stafford and Bull Terrier Crosses are the most likely breed to end up at RSPCA animal centres closely followed by Rottweilers, German Shepherds and Collies.

The RSPCA argues that the common perception of a Staffie as an aggressive dog often is a by-product of the ill-informed and irresponsible owners that are more concerned with the dog’s image rather than the ownership of a pet.

RSPCA North regional superintendent David Millard, said: "Staffies have had a terrible press …our experience suggests that problems occur when bad owners exploit the Staffies' desire to please by training them to show aggression."

The Nanny-Dog

In truth, the Staffie's temperament has often made it a great friend to children and loyal to its owners.  Most Staffies are highly intelligent and active dogs that get on well with both adults and children alike; they are affectionate and dedicated, much preferring the company of humans to that of dogs. If, like me, you live in a household with more than one adult staffie, (I have four), you get used to being greeted by a wave of affection when you return to your home. Just make sure that you never nod off on the sofa..... It's very difficult to get up with four staffies sleeping on you!