First Published: 2004

Hardcover 136 pages (January 2004)

Publisher: TFH Publications

Product Dimensions: 26cm x 18cm

Book Weight: 630g approx

ISBN: 1852791381  

Book Description:

"The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has long been in demand as a family pet, for his reputation as a loyal and loving companion is well established.  His legendary devotion towards children, in particular, has earned him a permanent place at the fireside of Staffanatics.  Yet few may realise that the future of this breed depended upon a successful transition – the one from dog fighting arena to the show ring.  When dog fighting became illegal, something needed to be done to safeguard the future of the Stafford – the answer was “showing”.

In showing terms, the history of the breed surely reached a pinnacle when Champion Domino Flashy Lad won Best in Show at the National Terrier Club Championship show in 1995, the first ever Staffordshire Bull Terrier to achieve this.  Bred and owned by Steve and Julie Bradder, and handled by Steve, ‘Arnie’ has gone on to establish his place in the history books, winning 28 Challenge Certificates and 12 Reserves.

In this book, Steve shares his own methods and his way of doing things – from choosing a Stafford pup to making his debut in the show ring.  Whether you are hoping to raise a well-behaved family pet or, perhaps, a future Best of Show at Crufts, Steve has experienced it all.  Along the way, he recounts moments of humour and of tragedy, all part of being a Stafford owner.  Or should that be, all part of being owned by a Stafford?  Steve still retains the common touch.  Perhaps the secret of his success is that winning is not the most important thing to him.  Of more concern is that the breed remains in the hands of those who will love and cherish it.  The Stafford needs a firm but fair hand, thriving best when he is a valued member of the family.  This is his legacy."

CONTENTS:

Foreword

Dedication

Testimonials

History

Temperament

Choosing

Health

Diet and Exercise

Basic Training, Handling and Socialisation

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

Showing

Breeding

Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Ch Domino Flashy Lad (Breed Record Holder)

Typical Rules for a Dog Fight (19th century)

Useful Addresses

Index

Front Cover: Ch Domino Flashy Lad.  Bred, owned and shown by Steve and Julie Bradder.  

Photo Courtesy of Raymond.

Acknowledgements:  

For photographs: Alan Raymond, Brian Owen, Alan Walker, David Dalton and Neil Glover.