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Staffordshire Bull Terrier History
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The origins of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier can be traced back to the 17th century. The larger bulldog and mastiff had been used for bull baiting in England but as that sport declined in popularity dogfights became more common. This created the need for a smaller and more agile dog. Bulldogs were bred down in size and eventually a cross between these smaller dogs and the Black and Tan Terrier created the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. These dogs were known for their courage and gameness in the ring but they were also bred to be loyal and affectionate toward their handlers. Dog fighting eventually began to lose its popularity and was outlawed in 1835.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier remained in favor with working class families, however, and soon after the ban on dog fighting a group of workers in the Staffordshire area attempted to preserve the breed by introducing it into the world of dog shows. These very same men would eventually write up the breed standard and give the dog its name. The breed was officially introduced to the Kennel Club in England in 1935, and was accepted into the American Kennel club in 1974. Today the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is known as a stable, playful family companion and is the 5th most popular dog in the UK with 18 breed clubs in Great Britain and Northern Ireland. In the UK, its kind and motherly temperament toward children has earned it the nickname Nanny Dog.
