Despite looking a bit intimidating because of its stocky and muscular appearance, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is actually a loving, exuberant and loyal dog who develops an attachment to their owners. Though most dogs of this breed are bred to be aggressive fighting dogs, most Staffordshire bull terriers are affectionate and gentle family pets. It has been said of the Staffordshire that no breed is more loving with its family, and according to the many families that own a Staffordshire, this bears significant truth. The Staffordshire is impressively strong, despite its small appearance. They are energetic and intelligent, but it is essential that you train them well if you want them to grow up polite and obedient. Heres everything you need to know about Staffordshire bull terrier training.
Tip #1: Establish a Routine
While your Staffie is young, it is essential that you establish a routine for him and be consistent with it. Create schedules for each task. He should be walked, fed, and put to bed at around the same time each day. Staffies are very intelligent, and they often like to know what’s going to happen next lest they become nervous with their unpredictable routine.
Tip #2: Give Him a Chew Toy
Staffies love chewing on things to exercise their jaw muscles. While young, give your Staffie some durable chew toys that are especially meant for bull terriers, such as rawhide or rope. Staffies tend to have a very strong jaw and will break weak toys and even choke on them. If you don’t give them their chew toys, they will opt to chew on your furniture. If you see your Staffie chewing on something inappropriate, scold him and redirect him to a new chew toy.
Tip #3: Leash Training Your Staffie
Begin leash training your Staffie while he is young. Leashing training your staffie when its hold can be very difficult, since the staffie will be big and strong enough to pull the leash out of your hand and hurt you. Staffies have very powerful upper bodies so use a chest harness leash to give you better control and for the dogs comfort. If your Staffie pulls on the leash, stop movement, correct him, and resist walking until he stops pulling.
Tip #4: Correct Play-Biting, Growling, and Jumping on People
Staffies tend to be very intense creatures, and sometimes, they can overpower you even if they don’t mean any harm. It is essential that you correct play-biting, growling, and jumping on people while they are young. These are symptoms of a dominant dog, and its important that your Staffie understands that you are boss. Staffies are good with kids, but you have to brief your children to be firm with the Staffie as well, lest the dog overpower your children. Your children should learn how to correct the dog in ways that you do too.
Staffordshire bull terrier training may be difficult, but you’re bound to realize that a fully-trained Staffie is a pleasure to have at the home.
