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THE STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIER Staffordshire Bull Terriers ( also known as Staffords) are the modern show and pet descendants of the “bull and terriers” originally bred in many parts of the UK well into the nineteenth century as fighting, rat catching and badger baiting dogs. Since he was first registered as a show breed in 1935, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier`s courage and affinity with people, especially children, has enabled him to become popular in many corners of the world and has established the breed`s well-earned nickname of the “nanny dog”. A Family Dog Because of his close relationship with
humans the Stafford does not make a good guard dog and is not suited to
being left for long periods without outside stimulation.Of course there
are many positive virtues to owning a Stafford – he is a dog with very
special qualities that make him an ideal family dog. The Staffordshire
Bull Terrier is well suited to a close living relationship with his
human companions – he is highly intelligent and thrives on a “one dog to
one family” basis.He is ever eager to please and will give you a
lifetime of devotion. However, beware: his friendliness to humans in general also makes him an easy target for any “dog napper”.There are frequent reports of Staffords being stolen from homes, gardens and cars, so great care should be taken not to leave your Stafford unattended in public. You should also ensure that your garden is secure and “dog-proof”; Staffords have no fear of traffic and all too often become road accident victims. Mixing with Other Dogs The Stafford has a colourful history and you should remember that while they love people, they will react if challenged by another dog. For this reason you must always be a responsible owner and never take your dog into a public place unless he is on a collar and lead. Always ensure the collar and lead is of sufficient strength to withstand the wear and tear to which it will be subjected (leather or nylon webbing are ideal).A collar should be of sufficient width so as not to cut into your dog`s neck, and neither uncomfortably tight nor so loose as to pull over his head in one of those “stubborn” moments. Every dog is different, and some Staffords live happily with other dogs or even cats. It has to be said that it's an exception to find a Stafford that can be totally trusted when meeting strange dogs. Training classes provide a controlled environment where your dog can socialise with other dogs, learn to behave well and respond to you in their presence. It is strongly recommended that where there are two or more Staffords in a household, they are separated if left unattended for any length of time. As with other breeds, it is not usually wise to try to keep two male animals - especially of similar ages – in one household.
the Rottweiler
"The dark guardian of the family" was used, many years ago, to describe the Rottweiler and this is just as apt today. It is, therefore, no surprise that you are interested in the Rottweiler. It is also of concern that you understand the long-term responsibility you will undertake if you decide that the Rottweiler is right for you When mature, the Rottweiler is a strong, somewhat arrogant animal, with a highly developed guarding instinct. It is essential that 100 lbs. plus of muscle and sinew has been trained, from an early age, to be under control.
The family environment is ideal for a Rottweiler, who needs human contact and is not happy left alone for long periods. Children must be taught never to tease a puppy and any play must be supervised at all times. Forest Dog Rescue will insist on satisfying themselves that you are able to feed and house such a large breed - and so you must not mind being put through the "third degree". DOG OR BITCH The male Rottweiler is bigger, heavier, stronger and more arrogant. He is sexually aware 365 days of a year, though this is not an oversexed breed. He needs a firmer hand than the female and is not suitable for those inexperienced with dogs of strong character. Females are more amenable and are maternal with the younger members of the family without losing their essential guarding qualities.
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This breed needs firm,
sympathetic handling, is quick to learn, and so will learn bad behavior
unless corrected kindly but consistently. It is all too easy for the
inexperienced to try and make a Rottweiler "guard" but this is neither
necessary or advisable.