How did this breed go from being called "nanny dogs" to people grimacing over the breed.
The truth is they haven't changed, the way people treat them and train them has.
Moss is an 18 month old Staffordshire bull terrier who loves life and especially his 2 little hoomans. Sadly being a Staffie, him and his owner have faced breed stereotyping from early on in their journey, even to the point of moss being kicked in the head.
Q) Why did you choose to buy/adopt the breed of your dog ?
I have two children so a dog that would be good with children was a must. Staffies are nicknamed “nanny dogs” for their fantastic temperament with children, and they are known for being so loving and playful - plus they are beautiful .
Q) Before you had your breed of dog, did you have any of your own stereotypical views towards the breed?
No - but I had been around Staffordshire bull terriers and never met an aggressive one - there’s no such thing as a bad dog or breed.
Q) Have you had people cross the road/ give you a wide berth in order not to pass close to you whilst out walking your dog?
YES! Crossing the road, give a wide berth AND picking up their dogs to walk past.
Q) Have you ever had parents pull their children out of the way/ closer to them when they have seen you coming?
Regularly on the school run! There are plenty who stop to pet him and give him a treat but a small few who clearly avoid us.
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Q) What is the most negative thing you have experienced physically/ verbally whilst out walking?
When Moss was about 6 months old he was playing with three other dogs. One of the other dogs was a King Charles Spaniel, who’s owner was an older gentleman (although not very gentlemanly). As Moss was near his dog, just the same as the two dogs there (a labradoodle and a border terrier) the man kicked Moss in the head away from his dog. He told me to “get my dog under control” even though he was doing the exact same thing as the other dogs there; sniffing and playing. This was the worst incident but unfortunately not the only incident we have faced.
Q) What’s the most negative experience you have had online regarding your dog /the breed of your dog?
I’ve not actually faced anything negative online, but that is down to the amazing instadog community. I don’t really post to my own socials.
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Q)Why do you believe people have the stereotypical views that they have towards (your breed of dog)?
Bad press, ignorance and lack of education, I think also with staffies myths like lock jaw are also an issue. People just think the worst that your dog is going to attack them and never let go. When in reality my dog just wants a kiss and a cuddle.
Q) What would you like to say to people who have pre judged views towards (your breed of dog)?
Please educate yourself, take the time to read up on all the wonderful characteristics of a Staffy rather than thinking of dog fighting images as we see in the media.
Q) What would you say to someone who was considering getting (your breed of dog)?
Staffies need a lot of stimulation, a lot of love and don’t like to be left alone for too long. If you can accommodate all three - 100% go for it! ESPECIALLY if you have children, a staffy will be your child(ren)s best friend.
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Q) Do you feel that dog stereotyping is talked about enough, if not, in what ways can we raise more awareness?
I think the media plays a huge part in stereotyping, people remember bad news more that the good. We need more good news and positivity on different breeds both in the media and through us as owners too
