First Published: 1986

Hardcover 160 pages

Publisher: Nimrod Book Services

First Published 1986

Reprinted 1987, 1988, 1994, 1999

ISBN 0 947647-11-2

Product Dimensions: 25.5cm x 19.5cm approx

Book Weight:   790g approx

New Impression 2002 (Beech Publishing)

Book Description:

"This book examines the development of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and, where necessary, the author has put forward his own views bringing together for the first time a comprehensive coverage of all aspects.

The many varieties of dogs in existence today were originally developed for one specific purpose; the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is no exception. From the murky days of the ‘pit’ and, generally no longer working for a living, he has emerged as the most popular terrier of present.

He is variable in colour; brindle, blue, red smut, white and pied, short in coat, medium in size and with daily exercise provided, the ideal dog for any type of dwelling. Correctly trained to guard he is equal to any breed. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has unique qualities; his reputation as a tough street fighter is deceptive, for when he is at home he makes a great nurse for the children. He tolerates any amount of mauling, never tires of games and awaits the next move of a child with patience and a continual wag of the tail.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a good choice whether for show purposes or companionship; it is also natural that he will make an excellent sporting companion, undertaking the task of tackling anything from a greenfly to an elephant. Countless generations have been bred for gameness and tenacity. A rough diamond he might be, but for all that he is a diamond, a wonderful icebreaker creating conversation wherever he goes. Those who purchase a Staffordshire bull terrier will never regret it."

Introduction:

"Due to the present-day popularity of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the early literature of the breed has become quite scarce. A great deal of it, in fact, is long out of print and therefore difficult to obtain.  There have been later books published on Staffordshire Bull Terrier and I add one more. I do so without hesitation. I feel it is time that the early history of the breed was more fully dealt with.

A great many who put pen to paper and write dog books prone to pass over or ignore the practises with the consider brutal and degrading. However, in reporting the historical truth, the existence of these practices must be acknowledged. The violent background of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has given the breed notoriety; this in itself does not inspire neutral feelings. People recorded as much as possible of the early events that formed the basis of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier character and temperament. Research on the true origin of the breed has been particularly interesting for me and it is hoped that the evidence produced will show the Staffordshire Bull Terrier as having a longer history than was previously summarised.   

Mike Homan"

CONTENTS:

Introduction 

1. Ancient Lineage – Baiting the Bull, Bear and Other Animals

2. Bull Running

3. Lion Fights

4. Fighting Dogs – Dog Pits in England

5. The British Fighting Dog in America

6. The American Pit Bull Terrier

7. The Fighting Dog of Scotland

8. Rat Pits – Badger Baiting – Duck Baits – Man v Dog

9. Recognition by the Kennel Club - Exhibiting the Staffordshire Bull Terrier