The Stafford Knot - Jan/Feb 2011 Issue #1, Vol #2

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An internet only Staffordshire Bull Terrier Magazine that promotes health tested Staffords - and donates to Stafford rescue worldwide. Ads, Brags, Breeder Directory, Club Announcements, Stud Gallery & Litter Announcements, & Informative Articles plus an illustrated Breed Standard which is helpful to fanciers, fans, judges and breeders alike! TSK is also available to view at www.thestaffordknot.com

Citation preview

JANFEB 2011 13 P R O M O T I N G T H E S T A F F O R D S H I R E B U L L T E R R I E R ISSUE 1 VOL 2 FREE

What we offer Full Color Ads of Top Staffords Kennels amp Vendors DogKennel Ads Brags Breeder Directory Club Announcements Stud Gallery

Litter Announcements amp Informative Articles What you can expect WORLDWIDE Publication 247 Accessibility No Waiting For Delivery DIRECT DISTRIBUTION to Stafford Judges Worldwide

No PAID Subscriptions needed Interactive Advertisements Back Issues Archived online as PDFrsquos

Kennel Logo Design available

ARTHRITIS

ON

PAGE 5

HOW CASSIE BECAME AN AUSTRALIAN OBEDIENCE CHAMPION ON PAGE 8

Subscribe online for FREEwwwthestaffordknotcom

The Stafford Knot The Stafford Knotpromotes

Health TestedStaffords

TEACHING BITE

INHIBITION

ON PAGE 22

WHAT IS L2-HGA

ON PAGE 17

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE

ON PAGE 36

THE TRUTH ABOUT

VACCINATIONS

ON PAGE 27

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford

enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of The Stafford Knot

Thank you Contact UsTSK benefits Stafford rescue worldwide copy 2009 - 2011 BD Design

HEALTH TESTING

INFO

ON PAGE 41

ILLUSTRATED BREED

STANDARD

ON PAGE

43

karenfavacomcastnet

QUESTIONamp

ANSWER

ON PAGE39

Thank you to this hard working team of Stafford devotees

Lynn Caswell - Editor DesignTech SupportErika Phillips - Columnist Co-EditorLinda Strange - Administrator Copy editorKimberly Washington-Smith - US SalesAndy Bohane - UK SalesDonna Treadwell Australia SalesDayna Lemke - Q amp A CoordinatorAngie Beezley - Marketing Rep DistributionGuest AuthorsHistorians - Article ContributionThank you also to our - Rescue Coordinators

We welcome sales representatives worldwide Please contact us if interested

Worldwide Thank you also to our Rescue Coordinators and Article Contributors Worldwide

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Step Three - Pay for ad at Paypal (found here)

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Use our easy to follow forms to send advertising copy then send digital images by clicking here

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ATTENTION

BEGINNING 2011 TSK WILL PUBLISH SIX ISSUES PER CALENDAR YEAR

ADVERTISING RATES MAY CHANGE AT OUR DISCRETION

PLEASE SUPPORT TSK

SEND SCANS OF HEALTH TESTING TO

HEALTHTHESTAFFORDKNOTCOM

SEE PAGE 7 FOR DETAILS

PER ISSUE AD FEES(2 MONTHS)

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12 PAGE - $45 FULL PAGE - $85RE-RUN SAME AD - $11 PER ISSUE

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(THRU 2011)

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sales and are non-refundable

The Stafford Knot

httpwwwstaffordarchivecom

Payment in full all images logos health testing scans and text must be received no later than the 15th of the month prior to next issue or your ad will not run

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TSK is not responsible for view-ability of all ads designed out of house or once proof has been approved

rqaurtzaolcom httpwwwblessingskennelorg

httpwwwstaffie-rescueorg

13 Arthritis is a general term that encompasses a large number of entities The simplest of explanations would be

to say that arthritis is an inflammation of the joint

Osteoarthritis is the most common

form of inflammatory joint disease both in humans and in Canines

Interestingly enough there are hardly any recordable cases in the Feline species

Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease that can be classified by two pathological processes

1 degeneration of the articular cartilage with a loss of proteoglycan

and collagen and

2 proliferation of new bone In addition a variable inflammatory

response occurs within the synovial membrane

Overall Osteoarthritis is an

inflammatory disease that causes stiffness pain swelling and limited movement

The risk of Osteoarthritis generally increases with the age of the dog

usually affecting dogs over the age of 7 Clinical signs are more prevalent in working dogs obese dogs and dogs that are kept outside in cold or damp

conditions Dogs who suffer physical trauma and developmental disorders such as patella luxations or hip

dysplasia also have an increased incidence

PREVENTION

In many parts of the world arthritis is

nonexistent People who eat a diet

largely based on fruits and vegetables

never complain about joint disease

On the canine side there is much talk

about Osteoarthritis being largely

associated with malnourishment

deficiency and toxic build-up It is

hence not a stretch to assume that

excessive waste from carbohydrates

grains and other inappropriate proteins

create toxic waste and when not

properly eliminated become a cesspool

for disease When there is an excess of

waste that cannot be eliminated by the

liver skin and other vital organs the

excess nitrogenic waste in the form of

urea is typically deposited in the joints

when the kidneys can no longer work

efficiently or effectively

In order to alleviate the debilitating

effects that arthritis has on the human

body most wholistic health care

professionals suggest a vegetarian diet

of whole foods such as fruits and

vegetables with limited amounts of

whole grains The idea behind this diet

is to meet what the body needs but not

to exceed it The body easily eliminates

fruits and vegetables and complex

carbohydrates (for an omnivore) are

easily converted into useable energy

without putting excess wear and tear

on the body

Apply that same theory to carnivores

and since dogs are carnivores we apply

that theory to them Cereals grains

fruits and vegetables are not part of a

carnivorersquos diet so therefore it stands

to reason that these ingredients would

serve to create excessive waste

production in the body If canines were

fed a species appropriate diet it would

make sense that the body would

process and convert proteins

appropriately

Essential fatty acids or Omega 3

originally known as Vitamin F have

proven to reduce inflammation in both

humans and animals These oils are

essential to the health of your dog

The question lies within its source if

carnivores cannot assimilate plant or

grain matter then it would be correct

to assume that oils from plants are not

effective for dogs Fish would be the

best source of EFAs for a carnivore It is

also important to note that high

amounts of EFA Omega 6 caused

increased collagen induced arthritis in

rats and exasperates vasculitis in

autoimmune mice

Arthritis

Continued on next page

It is important also to note that Omega 3 reduces inflammation and Omega 6 tends to promote inflammation

Clearly a balance is important

Obesity can contribute to inflammatory conditions If your dog is overweight it puts unnecessary stress on the

digestive tract which in turn puts pressure on the joints themselves If the body is under stress from excess

weight then it cannot perform its function properly Keep your dog lean and fit

Choosing a good breeder that regularly tests for Hip and Elbow dysplasia is a great place to start If we can start with good genetics then it reduces the

chances by some small degree

What is very interesting is that inflammation is central to the

cutaneous manifestation of psoriasis and atopic eczema This brings us to the skin being a sponge for toxins

absorbing excess waste from unusable proteins An important rule to remember is to meet but not exceed what the body needs

Some natural aids and preventatives

HERBAL SOLUTIONS

Licorice root is a natural corticosteroid and stimulates the secretion of hormones by the adrenal glands It is

an anti-inflammatory and reduces swelling and eases some skin conditions

Boswellia- Stimulates tissue immunity

repairs damaged tissue compare with Ibuprofen

Bromelain- A protein digesting enzyme that relaxes muscles helps with spasms anti-inflammatory

Comfrey ndash reduces bone inflammation-osteitis

Cayenne- For pain

Chamomile- anti-inflammatory good

for spasms relieves pain and reduces swelling

Curcumin- Anti-inflammatory reduces

pain swelling tenderness

Ginger ndash reduces inflammation pain and swelling Blocks the bodyrsquos

production of inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandin and leukotriene

Gotu Kola- Stimulates Collagen synthesis for healing tendons and

ligaments

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

The following is a basic guideline Potency and dosage are dependent on the state of disease and the individual

animal Be sure to have a good Materia Medica for reference or a good relationship with a homeopathic practitioner

Rhus tox 30c - If pain and stiffness is better after movement

Arnica 30c- for bruising aching

soreness

Ruta grav 30c- helps ease inflammation

Hypericum 30c ndash if pinched or injured

nerves may be involved Has particularly good action on the sacrum and the coccyx

Bryonia 30c- If the animal prefers to

stay in one place

Acid salicylicum 6c - Aggravated by movement joints are tender to the touch

Actaea rac 6c ndash heaviness in limbs stiffness and awkwardness while moving

Calc fluor 30c ndash swelling of the joints

especially useful when the carpus is indicated

There is an amazing correlation between joint injury and the skin Most cases of arthritis has some relationship

to skin disease of varying degrees When treating pain and discomfort always remember to look at the whole picture including the immune system

Remember to find as similar a picture as possible between the remedy of choice and the individual dog

Herbal Homeopathy Acupuncture TCM and other alternative modalities have high success rates in the care and

management of pain in dogs with Arthritis Generally the use of NSAIDs is not necessary or recommended

Erika Phillips

Studied Homeopathy at British Institute Of Homeopathy

TSK Staff Columnist

lsquoThe Controversial Caninersquo

ldquo If we can start with good genetics then it reduces the chances by some small degree ldquo

Continued from page 5

L2-HGA amp HC DATABASE PROJECT

THE STAFFORD KNOT ONLY ACCEPTS ADS FROM OWNERS AND BREEDERS OF DOGS WHO HAVE BEEN HEALTH TESTED THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS ARE L2-HGA amp HC TESTING WE PROVIDE INFORMATION ON WHERE TO GO TO HAVE THESE SIMPLE AND INEXPENSIVE TESTS PERFORMED

DOCUMENTATION IS REQUIRED TO BE SCANNED AND SENT IN TO THE EDITORS FOR APPROVAL FURTHER HEALTH TESTING (CARDIAC CERF PHPV HIPS ELBOWS PATELLA ETC) IS ALSO ENCOURAGED IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO BUYERS THAT THEY SEE THESE DOCUMENTS PRIOR TO PURCHASING THEIR NEW STAFFORD

IF ALL BREEDERS AND OWNERS WERE TO TEST STAFFORDS WOULD ALL BE BETTER OFF SIMPLY BY THE FACT THAT WE WOULD HAVE MORE INFORMATION REGARDING WHERE THIS BREED IS GOING AS FAR AS HEALTH MATTERS ARE CONCERNED

TO FURTHER THIS POINT IF ONLY CLEAR TESTED (L2-HGA amp HC) STAFFORDS ARE BRED FROM - THESE TWO GENETIC DISEASES COULD BE ERADICATED IN THREE GENERATIONS OF BREEDING THATrsquoS CERTAINLY SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

SOME ARGUE THAT THIS WOULD NARROW THE GENE POOL TOO MUCH AND IS NOT A NEEDED STEP TO IMPROVING THE FUTURE OF THIS BREED TO THOSE I SAY POSSIBLY HOWEVER - IS THAT CARRIER STUD DOG SO STRUCTURALLY SUPERIOR TO HIS CLEAR TESTED BROTHER THAT YOU WOULDNrsquoT CONSIDER USING THE BROTHER INSTEAD JUST SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

TSK IS COMPILING REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED DOCUMENTS OF ALL TESTED (CLEAR CARRIER AND AFFECTED) STAFFORDS FOR A FUTURE DATABASE PROJECT SO THAT DOCUMENTATION WILL BE ON HAND FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS IN THE US OUR REGISTRIES DO NOT DOCUMENT THESE TEST RESULTS AS THE KC DOES IN THE UK THEREFORE TOO MANY PEOPLE WHO OWN lsquoCLEAR BY PARENTAGErsquo STAFFORDS HAVE NO PROOF IN HAND SEVERAL GENERATIONS DOWN THE LINE IN TIME WE AT TSK HOPE THE DATABASE WILL HELP THOSE WHO WISH TO KNOW THE STATUS OF A PARTICULAR DOG OR LITTER

IF YOU HAVE A TESTED STAFFORD - PLEASE SEND ONE EMAIL TO HEALTHTHESTAFFORDKNOTCOM CONTAINING THE FULL REGISTERED NAME REGISTRATION NUMBER SIRE AND DAM REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED COPIES OF ALL HEALTH TESTING DONE ON YOUR DOG PLEASE ONLY SEND ONE EMAIL PER DOG IN TIME WE HOPE TO BUILD A NAME ONLY DATABASE WITH THIS INFORMATION THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING

I was after a bitch to start being serious about obedience I did do obedience with Kirra ( Aust Ch Hapustaff Black Magic CDX AD JD ) but she hated it so had to find another I then rang John and Nola ( Bajed ) to see if they had any bitch pups She said she had 3 bitches but she wasnt sure what they were keeping and that she would let me know when they have made there mind up so when they were 3 months I went up to Mount Larcom and had a look at the 3 girls Bearing in mind the pup was going to be owned by my son Michael so she had to be prepared to be pulled around and hugged and stuff So I picked them all up and the other 2 didnt like cuddles so I picked up Cassie and she just laid there I said to Nola ldquo this one pleaserdquo and thats how we picked her out of her sisters I didnt check mouths or anything as that wasnt a major part to me as I wanted her for Michael and to be my next champion in obedience

We bought her home and she fitted in really well and Kirra and her we inseparable They are the best of friends and have never had a fight

She had her first show at 4 months and kicked some butt and every show she went in she either won or got 2nd so I thought wow I have a stunner here in the show ring so we kept showing her and she did very well She did especially well in the specialty rings with many in show awards and her recent winning RBCC amp Best State Bred In Show at our SBTCQ 2010 under Mrs Griet Coetzer ( Zeracious SBT ) She loves to show and especially loves it when kids show her in junior handlers She makes a very good junior handler dog and has qualified quite a few kids for the finals in handlers

She gained her Australian Championship title at 2 frac12 yrs of age and thoroughly enjoyed it and I had a ball showing and still show her on occasions now

We started her obedience career at the age of 12 months She loved doing it and was always eager to please me and hated doing anything wrong so I had to encourage her when she wasnt sure just to let her no its ok to do somethings wrong She didnt think so though In her mind she had to do everything right the first time so we started training and back when she started they never had the new title CCD title available so we went straight into Novice (CD) It is all off lead and she didnt mind it much but had to keep reminding her she had to stay beside me and not about half metre away She didnt take long to train for the CD so off we went to her first Novice sweepstakes You have to get a sweepstakes of 150 to qualify first before you can compete in CD

( Novice ) She was just over a yr old and gained her first sweepstakes pass of 182200 and 1st place on the 22505 I was very pleased with her and thought I had something special in the obedience ring So we kept training for CD and getting ready for her first trial on 4605 where she scored 188200 and 1st place and this was her 1st pass for her CD title We then didnt train much as I found out I couldnt with her as she just hated being trained She would rather just get out there and do it She was very smart and only needed minimal training which many people didnt like because they had to train train and train there dogs but with Cassie just maybe 1 day a week was all she needed She then went onto gain her next pass in CD on the 2705 with a score of 187200 and yet another 1st place I then went onto to get her CD title 2 weeks later with an awesome score of 192200 and 1st place again So that was her CD title and looked good on her paperwork to show she had brains as

well as beauty I was training her for CDX while competing in CD so she was just about ready to trial in CDX ( Companion Dog Excellence ) Just had to get the out of sight stays down pat which she didnt have a problem with at all

She loved the jumps and the dumbbell but did everything at a nice pace not a psycho pass She was very calm when doing what she had to do but if she did something wrong and I corrected her by saying ldquonordquo she would just fall apart so then I new she was a soft dog to train so we went about training differently We introduced a tennis ball

Well that was a BAD mistake She is a ball freak so it made it easier for her after she had done something right I would throw the ball and that was her reward She loved the food as reward but preferred the ball I think and then she excelled in the training for her CDX title I then entered her in her first CDX trial on the 30705 and she had a ball gaining 176200 with a 3rd place I new she wasnt really ready but thought what the hell only way to learn is to put her in the trial so we did and was pleased she gained her 1st pass

How Cassie became an Australian Obedience Champion

AOC AUST CH BAJED MISS BLACKBERRY AD

SIRE CHERABAH THDIVIL NBLACK DAM BAJED MISS PLUM - BORN 3RD

MAY 2004

Continued on page 10

We were still showing her as well and we dont do trials every weekend as we wanted to get her Championship title

so then we did some shows then thought buggar it will enter her in obedience again and on the 151005 and she gained her 2nd pass in CDX

with a score of 174200 Wasnt a great score for her but was pleased as she was still learning the exercises and was

still very young I then though 1 more pass to go for her CDX title so I put her in a trial only a week later and she

gained her CDX title with a score of 178200 and with a 2nd place This was a great achievement for one so young and just only completing her CD title I

entered her in a couple more CDX trials and she scored an awesome score of 187200 and 1st place This was to be

her last CDX trial as she was then shown and she started her UD ( Utility Dog) title training

Boy what a challenge UD is to train a dog There is a lot more things involved in UD and takes a while to train a dog

Usually some dogs take over a year just to train for all the exercises but Cassie wow she was awesome I think it took her about 5 or 6 months to train for

every exercise

It was a challenge as she had to find just one article ( metal leather and wood)

amongst 12 other articles of the metal wood and leather Was a challenge to teach her just to scent for

the one I touched and she wasnt sure what I wanted her to do so I had to sew all the 12 articles onto a white sheet so she couldnt just pick up

anyone

So I put the article I touched onto the sheet with the sewed ones on it and

hoping this will teach her to only get the one with my scent on it as the others should couldnt get as they were

sewed down I sent her out to find the

one I touched and it took her a while not to pick up the sewed down ones and she finally found the loose one I

had touched So we did this with all the articles and this would have had to be the hardest one to teach any dog because they dont like the metal on

their teeth

ldquoBoy what a challenge UD is to train a dogrdquo

motoxgrl83yahoocomwwwlbellestaffordscom

Continued from page 8

Continued on page 13

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtml dnatestingahtorguk

wwwcornerstonesta f fords net

wwwstaffierescuescotlandcouk

staffcharmgmailcom

When we were doing this exercise I kept the 3 articles the

same all the time so it had my scent on them and was easier

for her to find them and no what she had to do and that she

had to sniff them out to find the right one When she started

using her nose I took all the cotton off the sewed ones and

they were all loose Now the time had come to see if she

could really do it and find the one I touched amongst all the

other loose ones I put the one I touched on the sheet and

sent her to ldquofindrdquo She went out and to my amazement she

found the right one so I knew the method had worked She

did all 3 good so now was to train for the box and jumps

She loved this one and didnt take long before she learnt that

as well I then taught her to find the ldquoseek backrdquo Its a piece

of leather dropped by the judge This was kind of easy for

Cassie to learn and I found this the easiest one to teach her

After that I had to teach her the stand drop and come so I

was speaking and doing the signals at same time Then I cut

out the speaking and she new what the signals meant

Then came the food refusal I never thought a Stafford could

refuse food She learnt very quickly not to touch the food

So she had concurred the whole of the UD exercises and I

thought might as well enter her in a trail Nothing to loose

and will give her a bit of practise in a trial situation Lets say

in her 1st trial we got a couple of 0s She just wasnt sure on

what she was meant to be doing as it was a different place

and not the back yard So we kept entering her in UD as well

as showing her

On the 16208 she gained her 1st pass with an awesome

score of 188200 and a 1st place This was an awesome score

being in UD as I was told I was just going for a score of

170200 which is the qualifying score for a pass in UD So I

was pretty stoked with her We then started to have trouble

with her eating the food in ldquofood refusal and she was

loosing out on a pass So we kept going with the food and

just did more training with her and she then got her 2nd

pass on the 19408 with another great score of 187200

with a 2nd place As we font trial every weekend it was good

that she new what she had to do even with little training I

found if I kept training her in UD she would just get bored

so we only trained a little everyday of 2 exercises and she

was ok with that

We then entered the Royal QLD Show for the 1st time in 08

where she went onto get her UD title with a score of

176200 and 3rd place This was a great achievement for her

as the grounds were awful Cows had been doing there

business where we were trialling so all the UD dogs did a

very good job This was the best feeling to get her title at

such a great show

Then the fun began going for her Australian Obedience

Champion (AOC) title

ldquoI never thought a Stafford could refuse food ldquo

Continued on next page

Continued from page 10

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

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httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

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wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

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httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Thank you to this hard working team of Stafford devotees

Lynn Caswell - Editor DesignTech SupportErika Phillips - Columnist Co-EditorLinda Strange - Administrator Copy editorKimberly Washington-Smith - US SalesAndy Bohane - UK SalesDonna Treadwell Australia SalesDayna Lemke - Q amp A CoordinatorAngie Beezley - Marketing Rep DistributionGuest AuthorsHistorians - Article ContributionThank you also to our - Rescue Coordinators

We welcome sales representatives worldwide Please contact us if interested

Worldwide Thank you also to our Rescue Coordinators and Article Contributors Worldwide

Placing an ad on TSK is as easy as 1 2 3

Step One - fill out form and send (forms below)

Step Two - email photo logo etc (click to send)

Step Three - Pay for ad at Paypal (found here)

Please fill out appropriate formAdvertising Form

Breeders Directory Form

Stud Gallery Form

Brag BoxLitter Announce Form

Classified Ad Form

All currencies accepted via Paypal

You do not need a Paypal account

Advertising Rates Effective thru Feb 28 2011

Use our easy to follow forms to send advertising copy then send digital images by clicking here

Use Paypal to pay for your ads by going to How to Advertise and click on Paypal drop down menu

ATTENTION

BEGINNING 2011 TSK WILL PUBLISH SIX ISSUES PER CALENDAR YEAR

ADVERTISING RATES MAY CHANGE AT OUR DISCRETION

PLEASE SUPPORT TSK

SEND SCANS OF HEALTH TESTING TO

HEALTHTHESTAFFORDKNOTCOM

SEE PAGE 7 FOR DETAILS

PER ISSUE AD FEES(2 MONTHS)

GALLERY AD

12 PAGE - $45 FULL PAGE - $85RE-RUN SAME AD - $11 PER ISSUE

BRAG BOX - $6

CLASSIFIED AD - $4

Paypal transaction fees included in ad sales and are non-refundable

YEARLY AD FEES

BREEDER DIRECTORY $40 YR (THRU 2011)

STUD GALLERY (PER DOG) $30 YR

(THRU 2011)

Look for us on FaceBook amp Twitter

All refunds or cancellations are subject to approval

Paypal transaction fees included in ad

sales and are non-refundable

The Stafford Knot

httpwwwstaffordarchivecom

Payment in full all images logos health testing scans and text must be received no later than the 15th of the month prior to next issue or your ad will not run

REMEMBER The better your images the better your ad will be YOU will be responsible for final proofing of your ad for any errors misspellings etc We will email you a PROOF prior to uploading your ad to the current issue PLEASE make

all corrections AT THAT TIME or the ad will run the entire month AS IS No mid-issue changesUse our easy to follow forms to send advertising copy then send digital images by clicking here

Please submit ads as 72 dpi jpg or png 8rdquo wide by 5rdquo high for half page 8rdquo wide by 10rdquo high for full page

Remember smallthin type may be difficult to read when shrunk for online viewing Use bold fonts amp sharp

images Dont overcrowd with too much text or your ad may be difficult to read

TSK is not responsible for view-ability of all ads designed out of house or once proof has been approved

rqaurtzaolcom httpwwwblessingskennelorg

httpwwwstaffie-rescueorg

13 Arthritis is a general term that encompasses a large number of entities The simplest of explanations would be

to say that arthritis is an inflammation of the joint

Osteoarthritis is the most common

form of inflammatory joint disease both in humans and in Canines

Interestingly enough there are hardly any recordable cases in the Feline species

Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease that can be classified by two pathological processes

1 degeneration of the articular cartilage with a loss of proteoglycan

and collagen and

2 proliferation of new bone In addition a variable inflammatory

response occurs within the synovial membrane

Overall Osteoarthritis is an

inflammatory disease that causes stiffness pain swelling and limited movement

The risk of Osteoarthritis generally increases with the age of the dog

usually affecting dogs over the age of 7 Clinical signs are more prevalent in working dogs obese dogs and dogs that are kept outside in cold or damp

conditions Dogs who suffer physical trauma and developmental disorders such as patella luxations or hip

dysplasia also have an increased incidence

PREVENTION

In many parts of the world arthritis is

nonexistent People who eat a diet

largely based on fruits and vegetables

never complain about joint disease

On the canine side there is much talk

about Osteoarthritis being largely

associated with malnourishment

deficiency and toxic build-up It is

hence not a stretch to assume that

excessive waste from carbohydrates

grains and other inappropriate proteins

create toxic waste and when not

properly eliminated become a cesspool

for disease When there is an excess of

waste that cannot be eliminated by the

liver skin and other vital organs the

excess nitrogenic waste in the form of

urea is typically deposited in the joints

when the kidneys can no longer work

efficiently or effectively

In order to alleviate the debilitating

effects that arthritis has on the human

body most wholistic health care

professionals suggest a vegetarian diet

of whole foods such as fruits and

vegetables with limited amounts of

whole grains The idea behind this diet

is to meet what the body needs but not

to exceed it The body easily eliminates

fruits and vegetables and complex

carbohydrates (for an omnivore) are

easily converted into useable energy

without putting excess wear and tear

on the body

Apply that same theory to carnivores

and since dogs are carnivores we apply

that theory to them Cereals grains

fruits and vegetables are not part of a

carnivorersquos diet so therefore it stands

to reason that these ingredients would

serve to create excessive waste

production in the body If canines were

fed a species appropriate diet it would

make sense that the body would

process and convert proteins

appropriately

Essential fatty acids or Omega 3

originally known as Vitamin F have

proven to reduce inflammation in both

humans and animals These oils are

essential to the health of your dog

The question lies within its source if

carnivores cannot assimilate plant or

grain matter then it would be correct

to assume that oils from plants are not

effective for dogs Fish would be the

best source of EFAs for a carnivore It is

also important to note that high

amounts of EFA Omega 6 caused

increased collagen induced arthritis in

rats and exasperates vasculitis in

autoimmune mice

Arthritis

Continued on next page

It is important also to note that Omega 3 reduces inflammation and Omega 6 tends to promote inflammation

Clearly a balance is important

Obesity can contribute to inflammatory conditions If your dog is overweight it puts unnecessary stress on the

digestive tract which in turn puts pressure on the joints themselves If the body is under stress from excess

weight then it cannot perform its function properly Keep your dog lean and fit

Choosing a good breeder that regularly tests for Hip and Elbow dysplasia is a great place to start If we can start with good genetics then it reduces the

chances by some small degree

What is very interesting is that inflammation is central to the

cutaneous manifestation of psoriasis and atopic eczema This brings us to the skin being a sponge for toxins

absorbing excess waste from unusable proteins An important rule to remember is to meet but not exceed what the body needs

Some natural aids and preventatives

HERBAL SOLUTIONS

Licorice root is a natural corticosteroid and stimulates the secretion of hormones by the adrenal glands It is

an anti-inflammatory and reduces swelling and eases some skin conditions

Boswellia- Stimulates tissue immunity

repairs damaged tissue compare with Ibuprofen

Bromelain- A protein digesting enzyme that relaxes muscles helps with spasms anti-inflammatory

Comfrey ndash reduces bone inflammation-osteitis

Cayenne- For pain

Chamomile- anti-inflammatory good

for spasms relieves pain and reduces swelling

Curcumin- Anti-inflammatory reduces

pain swelling tenderness

Ginger ndash reduces inflammation pain and swelling Blocks the bodyrsquos

production of inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandin and leukotriene

Gotu Kola- Stimulates Collagen synthesis for healing tendons and

ligaments

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

The following is a basic guideline Potency and dosage are dependent on the state of disease and the individual

animal Be sure to have a good Materia Medica for reference or a good relationship with a homeopathic practitioner

Rhus tox 30c - If pain and stiffness is better after movement

Arnica 30c- for bruising aching

soreness

Ruta grav 30c- helps ease inflammation

Hypericum 30c ndash if pinched or injured

nerves may be involved Has particularly good action on the sacrum and the coccyx

Bryonia 30c- If the animal prefers to

stay in one place

Acid salicylicum 6c - Aggravated by movement joints are tender to the touch

Actaea rac 6c ndash heaviness in limbs stiffness and awkwardness while moving

Calc fluor 30c ndash swelling of the joints

especially useful when the carpus is indicated

There is an amazing correlation between joint injury and the skin Most cases of arthritis has some relationship

to skin disease of varying degrees When treating pain and discomfort always remember to look at the whole picture including the immune system

Remember to find as similar a picture as possible between the remedy of choice and the individual dog

Herbal Homeopathy Acupuncture TCM and other alternative modalities have high success rates in the care and

management of pain in dogs with Arthritis Generally the use of NSAIDs is not necessary or recommended

Erika Phillips

Studied Homeopathy at British Institute Of Homeopathy

TSK Staff Columnist

lsquoThe Controversial Caninersquo

ldquo If we can start with good genetics then it reduces the chances by some small degree ldquo

Continued from page 5

L2-HGA amp HC DATABASE PROJECT

THE STAFFORD KNOT ONLY ACCEPTS ADS FROM OWNERS AND BREEDERS OF DOGS WHO HAVE BEEN HEALTH TESTED THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS ARE L2-HGA amp HC TESTING WE PROVIDE INFORMATION ON WHERE TO GO TO HAVE THESE SIMPLE AND INEXPENSIVE TESTS PERFORMED

DOCUMENTATION IS REQUIRED TO BE SCANNED AND SENT IN TO THE EDITORS FOR APPROVAL FURTHER HEALTH TESTING (CARDIAC CERF PHPV HIPS ELBOWS PATELLA ETC) IS ALSO ENCOURAGED IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO BUYERS THAT THEY SEE THESE DOCUMENTS PRIOR TO PURCHASING THEIR NEW STAFFORD

IF ALL BREEDERS AND OWNERS WERE TO TEST STAFFORDS WOULD ALL BE BETTER OFF SIMPLY BY THE FACT THAT WE WOULD HAVE MORE INFORMATION REGARDING WHERE THIS BREED IS GOING AS FAR AS HEALTH MATTERS ARE CONCERNED

TO FURTHER THIS POINT IF ONLY CLEAR TESTED (L2-HGA amp HC) STAFFORDS ARE BRED FROM - THESE TWO GENETIC DISEASES COULD BE ERADICATED IN THREE GENERATIONS OF BREEDING THATrsquoS CERTAINLY SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

SOME ARGUE THAT THIS WOULD NARROW THE GENE POOL TOO MUCH AND IS NOT A NEEDED STEP TO IMPROVING THE FUTURE OF THIS BREED TO THOSE I SAY POSSIBLY HOWEVER - IS THAT CARRIER STUD DOG SO STRUCTURALLY SUPERIOR TO HIS CLEAR TESTED BROTHER THAT YOU WOULDNrsquoT CONSIDER USING THE BROTHER INSTEAD JUST SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

TSK IS COMPILING REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED DOCUMENTS OF ALL TESTED (CLEAR CARRIER AND AFFECTED) STAFFORDS FOR A FUTURE DATABASE PROJECT SO THAT DOCUMENTATION WILL BE ON HAND FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS IN THE US OUR REGISTRIES DO NOT DOCUMENT THESE TEST RESULTS AS THE KC DOES IN THE UK THEREFORE TOO MANY PEOPLE WHO OWN lsquoCLEAR BY PARENTAGErsquo STAFFORDS HAVE NO PROOF IN HAND SEVERAL GENERATIONS DOWN THE LINE IN TIME WE AT TSK HOPE THE DATABASE WILL HELP THOSE WHO WISH TO KNOW THE STATUS OF A PARTICULAR DOG OR LITTER

IF YOU HAVE A TESTED STAFFORD - PLEASE SEND ONE EMAIL TO HEALTHTHESTAFFORDKNOTCOM CONTAINING THE FULL REGISTERED NAME REGISTRATION NUMBER SIRE AND DAM REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED COPIES OF ALL HEALTH TESTING DONE ON YOUR DOG PLEASE ONLY SEND ONE EMAIL PER DOG IN TIME WE HOPE TO BUILD A NAME ONLY DATABASE WITH THIS INFORMATION THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING

I was after a bitch to start being serious about obedience I did do obedience with Kirra ( Aust Ch Hapustaff Black Magic CDX AD JD ) but she hated it so had to find another I then rang John and Nola ( Bajed ) to see if they had any bitch pups She said she had 3 bitches but she wasnt sure what they were keeping and that she would let me know when they have made there mind up so when they were 3 months I went up to Mount Larcom and had a look at the 3 girls Bearing in mind the pup was going to be owned by my son Michael so she had to be prepared to be pulled around and hugged and stuff So I picked them all up and the other 2 didnt like cuddles so I picked up Cassie and she just laid there I said to Nola ldquo this one pleaserdquo and thats how we picked her out of her sisters I didnt check mouths or anything as that wasnt a major part to me as I wanted her for Michael and to be my next champion in obedience

We bought her home and she fitted in really well and Kirra and her we inseparable They are the best of friends and have never had a fight

She had her first show at 4 months and kicked some butt and every show she went in she either won or got 2nd so I thought wow I have a stunner here in the show ring so we kept showing her and she did very well She did especially well in the specialty rings with many in show awards and her recent winning RBCC amp Best State Bred In Show at our SBTCQ 2010 under Mrs Griet Coetzer ( Zeracious SBT ) She loves to show and especially loves it when kids show her in junior handlers She makes a very good junior handler dog and has qualified quite a few kids for the finals in handlers

She gained her Australian Championship title at 2 frac12 yrs of age and thoroughly enjoyed it and I had a ball showing and still show her on occasions now

We started her obedience career at the age of 12 months She loved doing it and was always eager to please me and hated doing anything wrong so I had to encourage her when she wasnt sure just to let her no its ok to do somethings wrong She didnt think so though In her mind she had to do everything right the first time so we started training and back when she started they never had the new title CCD title available so we went straight into Novice (CD) It is all off lead and she didnt mind it much but had to keep reminding her she had to stay beside me and not about half metre away She didnt take long to train for the CD so off we went to her first Novice sweepstakes You have to get a sweepstakes of 150 to qualify first before you can compete in CD

( Novice ) She was just over a yr old and gained her first sweepstakes pass of 182200 and 1st place on the 22505 I was very pleased with her and thought I had something special in the obedience ring So we kept training for CD and getting ready for her first trial on 4605 where she scored 188200 and 1st place and this was her 1st pass for her CD title We then didnt train much as I found out I couldnt with her as she just hated being trained She would rather just get out there and do it She was very smart and only needed minimal training which many people didnt like because they had to train train and train there dogs but with Cassie just maybe 1 day a week was all she needed She then went onto gain her next pass in CD on the 2705 with a score of 187200 and yet another 1st place I then went onto to get her CD title 2 weeks later with an awesome score of 192200 and 1st place again So that was her CD title and looked good on her paperwork to show she had brains as

well as beauty I was training her for CDX while competing in CD so she was just about ready to trial in CDX ( Companion Dog Excellence ) Just had to get the out of sight stays down pat which she didnt have a problem with at all

She loved the jumps and the dumbbell but did everything at a nice pace not a psycho pass She was very calm when doing what she had to do but if she did something wrong and I corrected her by saying ldquonordquo she would just fall apart so then I new she was a soft dog to train so we went about training differently We introduced a tennis ball

Well that was a BAD mistake She is a ball freak so it made it easier for her after she had done something right I would throw the ball and that was her reward She loved the food as reward but preferred the ball I think and then she excelled in the training for her CDX title I then entered her in her first CDX trial on the 30705 and she had a ball gaining 176200 with a 3rd place I new she wasnt really ready but thought what the hell only way to learn is to put her in the trial so we did and was pleased she gained her 1st pass

How Cassie became an Australian Obedience Champion

AOC AUST CH BAJED MISS BLACKBERRY AD

SIRE CHERABAH THDIVIL NBLACK DAM BAJED MISS PLUM - BORN 3RD

MAY 2004

Continued on page 10

We were still showing her as well and we dont do trials every weekend as we wanted to get her Championship title

so then we did some shows then thought buggar it will enter her in obedience again and on the 151005 and she gained her 2nd pass in CDX

with a score of 174200 Wasnt a great score for her but was pleased as she was still learning the exercises and was

still very young I then though 1 more pass to go for her CDX title so I put her in a trial only a week later and she

gained her CDX title with a score of 178200 and with a 2nd place This was a great achievement for one so young and just only completing her CD title I

entered her in a couple more CDX trials and she scored an awesome score of 187200 and 1st place This was to be

her last CDX trial as she was then shown and she started her UD ( Utility Dog) title training

Boy what a challenge UD is to train a dog There is a lot more things involved in UD and takes a while to train a dog

Usually some dogs take over a year just to train for all the exercises but Cassie wow she was awesome I think it took her about 5 or 6 months to train for

every exercise

It was a challenge as she had to find just one article ( metal leather and wood)

amongst 12 other articles of the metal wood and leather Was a challenge to teach her just to scent for

the one I touched and she wasnt sure what I wanted her to do so I had to sew all the 12 articles onto a white sheet so she couldnt just pick up

anyone

So I put the article I touched onto the sheet with the sewed ones on it and

hoping this will teach her to only get the one with my scent on it as the others should couldnt get as they were

sewed down I sent her out to find the

one I touched and it took her a while not to pick up the sewed down ones and she finally found the loose one I

had touched So we did this with all the articles and this would have had to be the hardest one to teach any dog because they dont like the metal on

their teeth

ldquoBoy what a challenge UD is to train a dogrdquo

motoxgrl83yahoocomwwwlbellestaffordscom

Continued from page 8

Continued on page 13

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtml dnatestingahtorguk

wwwcornerstonesta f fords net

wwwstaffierescuescotlandcouk

staffcharmgmailcom

When we were doing this exercise I kept the 3 articles the

same all the time so it had my scent on them and was easier

for her to find them and no what she had to do and that she

had to sniff them out to find the right one When she started

using her nose I took all the cotton off the sewed ones and

they were all loose Now the time had come to see if she

could really do it and find the one I touched amongst all the

other loose ones I put the one I touched on the sheet and

sent her to ldquofindrdquo She went out and to my amazement she

found the right one so I knew the method had worked She

did all 3 good so now was to train for the box and jumps

She loved this one and didnt take long before she learnt that

as well I then taught her to find the ldquoseek backrdquo Its a piece

of leather dropped by the judge This was kind of easy for

Cassie to learn and I found this the easiest one to teach her

After that I had to teach her the stand drop and come so I

was speaking and doing the signals at same time Then I cut

out the speaking and she new what the signals meant

Then came the food refusal I never thought a Stafford could

refuse food She learnt very quickly not to touch the food

So she had concurred the whole of the UD exercises and I

thought might as well enter her in a trail Nothing to loose

and will give her a bit of practise in a trial situation Lets say

in her 1st trial we got a couple of 0s She just wasnt sure on

what she was meant to be doing as it was a different place

and not the back yard So we kept entering her in UD as well

as showing her

On the 16208 she gained her 1st pass with an awesome

score of 188200 and a 1st place This was an awesome score

being in UD as I was told I was just going for a score of

170200 which is the qualifying score for a pass in UD So I

was pretty stoked with her We then started to have trouble

with her eating the food in ldquofood refusal and she was

loosing out on a pass So we kept going with the food and

just did more training with her and she then got her 2nd

pass on the 19408 with another great score of 187200

with a 2nd place As we font trial every weekend it was good

that she new what she had to do even with little training I

found if I kept training her in UD she would just get bored

so we only trained a little everyday of 2 exercises and she

was ok with that

We then entered the Royal QLD Show for the 1st time in 08

where she went onto get her UD title with a score of

176200 and 3rd place This was a great achievement for her

as the grounds were awful Cows had been doing there

business where we were trialling so all the UD dogs did a

very good job This was the best feeling to get her title at

such a great show

Then the fun began going for her Australian Obedience

Champion (AOC) title

ldquoI never thought a Stafford could refuse food ldquo

Continued on next page

Continued from page 10

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

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OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

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httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

The Stafford Knot

httpwwwstaffordarchivecom

Payment in full all images logos health testing scans and text must be received no later than the 15th of the month prior to next issue or your ad will not run

REMEMBER The better your images the better your ad will be YOU will be responsible for final proofing of your ad for any errors misspellings etc We will email you a PROOF prior to uploading your ad to the current issue PLEASE make

all corrections AT THAT TIME or the ad will run the entire month AS IS No mid-issue changesUse our easy to follow forms to send advertising copy then send digital images by clicking here

Please submit ads as 72 dpi jpg or png 8rdquo wide by 5rdquo high for half page 8rdquo wide by 10rdquo high for full page

Remember smallthin type may be difficult to read when shrunk for online viewing Use bold fonts amp sharp

images Dont overcrowd with too much text or your ad may be difficult to read

TSK is not responsible for view-ability of all ads designed out of house or once proof has been approved

rqaurtzaolcom httpwwwblessingskennelorg

httpwwwstaffie-rescueorg

13 Arthritis is a general term that encompasses a large number of entities The simplest of explanations would be

to say that arthritis is an inflammation of the joint

Osteoarthritis is the most common

form of inflammatory joint disease both in humans and in Canines

Interestingly enough there are hardly any recordable cases in the Feline species

Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease that can be classified by two pathological processes

1 degeneration of the articular cartilage with a loss of proteoglycan

and collagen and

2 proliferation of new bone In addition a variable inflammatory

response occurs within the synovial membrane

Overall Osteoarthritis is an

inflammatory disease that causes stiffness pain swelling and limited movement

The risk of Osteoarthritis generally increases with the age of the dog

usually affecting dogs over the age of 7 Clinical signs are more prevalent in working dogs obese dogs and dogs that are kept outside in cold or damp

conditions Dogs who suffer physical trauma and developmental disorders such as patella luxations or hip

dysplasia also have an increased incidence

PREVENTION

In many parts of the world arthritis is

nonexistent People who eat a diet

largely based on fruits and vegetables

never complain about joint disease

On the canine side there is much talk

about Osteoarthritis being largely

associated with malnourishment

deficiency and toxic build-up It is

hence not a stretch to assume that

excessive waste from carbohydrates

grains and other inappropriate proteins

create toxic waste and when not

properly eliminated become a cesspool

for disease When there is an excess of

waste that cannot be eliminated by the

liver skin and other vital organs the

excess nitrogenic waste in the form of

urea is typically deposited in the joints

when the kidneys can no longer work

efficiently or effectively

In order to alleviate the debilitating

effects that arthritis has on the human

body most wholistic health care

professionals suggest a vegetarian diet

of whole foods such as fruits and

vegetables with limited amounts of

whole grains The idea behind this diet

is to meet what the body needs but not

to exceed it The body easily eliminates

fruits and vegetables and complex

carbohydrates (for an omnivore) are

easily converted into useable energy

without putting excess wear and tear

on the body

Apply that same theory to carnivores

and since dogs are carnivores we apply

that theory to them Cereals grains

fruits and vegetables are not part of a

carnivorersquos diet so therefore it stands

to reason that these ingredients would

serve to create excessive waste

production in the body If canines were

fed a species appropriate diet it would

make sense that the body would

process and convert proteins

appropriately

Essential fatty acids or Omega 3

originally known as Vitamin F have

proven to reduce inflammation in both

humans and animals These oils are

essential to the health of your dog

The question lies within its source if

carnivores cannot assimilate plant or

grain matter then it would be correct

to assume that oils from plants are not

effective for dogs Fish would be the

best source of EFAs for a carnivore It is

also important to note that high

amounts of EFA Omega 6 caused

increased collagen induced arthritis in

rats and exasperates vasculitis in

autoimmune mice

Arthritis

Continued on next page

It is important also to note that Omega 3 reduces inflammation and Omega 6 tends to promote inflammation

Clearly a balance is important

Obesity can contribute to inflammatory conditions If your dog is overweight it puts unnecessary stress on the

digestive tract which in turn puts pressure on the joints themselves If the body is under stress from excess

weight then it cannot perform its function properly Keep your dog lean and fit

Choosing a good breeder that regularly tests for Hip and Elbow dysplasia is a great place to start If we can start with good genetics then it reduces the

chances by some small degree

What is very interesting is that inflammation is central to the

cutaneous manifestation of psoriasis and atopic eczema This brings us to the skin being a sponge for toxins

absorbing excess waste from unusable proteins An important rule to remember is to meet but not exceed what the body needs

Some natural aids and preventatives

HERBAL SOLUTIONS

Licorice root is a natural corticosteroid and stimulates the secretion of hormones by the adrenal glands It is

an anti-inflammatory and reduces swelling and eases some skin conditions

Boswellia- Stimulates tissue immunity

repairs damaged tissue compare with Ibuprofen

Bromelain- A protein digesting enzyme that relaxes muscles helps with spasms anti-inflammatory

Comfrey ndash reduces bone inflammation-osteitis

Cayenne- For pain

Chamomile- anti-inflammatory good

for spasms relieves pain and reduces swelling

Curcumin- Anti-inflammatory reduces

pain swelling tenderness

Ginger ndash reduces inflammation pain and swelling Blocks the bodyrsquos

production of inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandin and leukotriene

Gotu Kola- Stimulates Collagen synthesis for healing tendons and

ligaments

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

The following is a basic guideline Potency and dosage are dependent on the state of disease and the individual

animal Be sure to have a good Materia Medica for reference or a good relationship with a homeopathic practitioner

Rhus tox 30c - If pain and stiffness is better after movement

Arnica 30c- for bruising aching

soreness

Ruta grav 30c- helps ease inflammation

Hypericum 30c ndash if pinched or injured

nerves may be involved Has particularly good action on the sacrum and the coccyx

Bryonia 30c- If the animal prefers to

stay in one place

Acid salicylicum 6c - Aggravated by movement joints are tender to the touch

Actaea rac 6c ndash heaviness in limbs stiffness and awkwardness while moving

Calc fluor 30c ndash swelling of the joints

especially useful when the carpus is indicated

There is an amazing correlation between joint injury and the skin Most cases of arthritis has some relationship

to skin disease of varying degrees When treating pain and discomfort always remember to look at the whole picture including the immune system

Remember to find as similar a picture as possible between the remedy of choice and the individual dog

Herbal Homeopathy Acupuncture TCM and other alternative modalities have high success rates in the care and

management of pain in dogs with Arthritis Generally the use of NSAIDs is not necessary or recommended

Erika Phillips

Studied Homeopathy at British Institute Of Homeopathy

TSK Staff Columnist

lsquoThe Controversial Caninersquo

ldquo If we can start with good genetics then it reduces the chances by some small degree ldquo

Continued from page 5

L2-HGA amp HC DATABASE PROJECT

THE STAFFORD KNOT ONLY ACCEPTS ADS FROM OWNERS AND BREEDERS OF DOGS WHO HAVE BEEN HEALTH TESTED THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS ARE L2-HGA amp HC TESTING WE PROVIDE INFORMATION ON WHERE TO GO TO HAVE THESE SIMPLE AND INEXPENSIVE TESTS PERFORMED

DOCUMENTATION IS REQUIRED TO BE SCANNED AND SENT IN TO THE EDITORS FOR APPROVAL FURTHER HEALTH TESTING (CARDIAC CERF PHPV HIPS ELBOWS PATELLA ETC) IS ALSO ENCOURAGED IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO BUYERS THAT THEY SEE THESE DOCUMENTS PRIOR TO PURCHASING THEIR NEW STAFFORD

IF ALL BREEDERS AND OWNERS WERE TO TEST STAFFORDS WOULD ALL BE BETTER OFF SIMPLY BY THE FACT THAT WE WOULD HAVE MORE INFORMATION REGARDING WHERE THIS BREED IS GOING AS FAR AS HEALTH MATTERS ARE CONCERNED

TO FURTHER THIS POINT IF ONLY CLEAR TESTED (L2-HGA amp HC) STAFFORDS ARE BRED FROM - THESE TWO GENETIC DISEASES COULD BE ERADICATED IN THREE GENERATIONS OF BREEDING THATrsquoS CERTAINLY SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

SOME ARGUE THAT THIS WOULD NARROW THE GENE POOL TOO MUCH AND IS NOT A NEEDED STEP TO IMPROVING THE FUTURE OF THIS BREED TO THOSE I SAY POSSIBLY HOWEVER - IS THAT CARRIER STUD DOG SO STRUCTURALLY SUPERIOR TO HIS CLEAR TESTED BROTHER THAT YOU WOULDNrsquoT CONSIDER USING THE BROTHER INSTEAD JUST SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

TSK IS COMPILING REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED DOCUMENTS OF ALL TESTED (CLEAR CARRIER AND AFFECTED) STAFFORDS FOR A FUTURE DATABASE PROJECT SO THAT DOCUMENTATION WILL BE ON HAND FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS IN THE US OUR REGISTRIES DO NOT DOCUMENT THESE TEST RESULTS AS THE KC DOES IN THE UK THEREFORE TOO MANY PEOPLE WHO OWN lsquoCLEAR BY PARENTAGErsquo STAFFORDS HAVE NO PROOF IN HAND SEVERAL GENERATIONS DOWN THE LINE IN TIME WE AT TSK HOPE THE DATABASE WILL HELP THOSE WHO WISH TO KNOW THE STATUS OF A PARTICULAR DOG OR LITTER

IF YOU HAVE A TESTED STAFFORD - PLEASE SEND ONE EMAIL TO HEALTHTHESTAFFORDKNOTCOM CONTAINING THE FULL REGISTERED NAME REGISTRATION NUMBER SIRE AND DAM REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED COPIES OF ALL HEALTH TESTING DONE ON YOUR DOG PLEASE ONLY SEND ONE EMAIL PER DOG IN TIME WE HOPE TO BUILD A NAME ONLY DATABASE WITH THIS INFORMATION THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING

I was after a bitch to start being serious about obedience I did do obedience with Kirra ( Aust Ch Hapustaff Black Magic CDX AD JD ) but she hated it so had to find another I then rang John and Nola ( Bajed ) to see if they had any bitch pups She said she had 3 bitches but she wasnt sure what they were keeping and that she would let me know when they have made there mind up so when they were 3 months I went up to Mount Larcom and had a look at the 3 girls Bearing in mind the pup was going to be owned by my son Michael so she had to be prepared to be pulled around and hugged and stuff So I picked them all up and the other 2 didnt like cuddles so I picked up Cassie and she just laid there I said to Nola ldquo this one pleaserdquo and thats how we picked her out of her sisters I didnt check mouths or anything as that wasnt a major part to me as I wanted her for Michael and to be my next champion in obedience

We bought her home and she fitted in really well and Kirra and her we inseparable They are the best of friends and have never had a fight

She had her first show at 4 months and kicked some butt and every show she went in she either won or got 2nd so I thought wow I have a stunner here in the show ring so we kept showing her and she did very well She did especially well in the specialty rings with many in show awards and her recent winning RBCC amp Best State Bred In Show at our SBTCQ 2010 under Mrs Griet Coetzer ( Zeracious SBT ) She loves to show and especially loves it when kids show her in junior handlers She makes a very good junior handler dog and has qualified quite a few kids for the finals in handlers

She gained her Australian Championship title at 2 frac12 yrs of age and thoroughly enjoyed it and I had a ball showing and still show her on occasions now

We started her obedience career at the age of 12 months She loved doing it and was always eager to please me and hated doing anything wrong so I had to encourage her when she wasnt sure just to let her no its ok to do somethings wrong She didnt think so though In her mind she had to do everything right the first time so we started training and back when she started they never had the new title CCD title available so we went straight into Novice (CD) It is all off lead and she didnt mind it much but had to keep reminding her she had to stay beside me and not about half metre away She didnt take long to train for the CD so off we went to her first Novice sweepstakes You have to get a sweepstakes of 150 to qualify first before you can compete in CD

( Novice ) She was just over a yr old and gained her first sweepstakes pass of 182200 and 1st place on the 22505 I was very pleased with her and thought I had something special in the obedience ring So we kept training for CD and getting ready for her first trial on 4605 where she scored 188200 and 1st place and this was her 1st pass for her CD title We then didnt train much as I found out I couldnt with her as she just hated being trained She would rather just get out there and do it She was very smart and only needed minimal training which many people didnt like because they had to train train and train there dogs but with Cassie just maybe 1 day a week was all she needed She then went onto gain her next pass in CD on the 2705 with a score of 187200 and yet another 1st place I then went onto to get her CD title 2 weeks later with an awesome score of 192200 and 1st place again So that was her CD title and looked good on her paperwork to show she had brains as

well as beauty I was training her for CDX while competing in CD so she was just about ready to trial in CDX ( Companion Dog Excellence ) Just had to get the out of sight stays down pat which she didnt have a problem with at all

She loved the jumps and the dumbbell but did everything at a nice pace not a psycho pass She was very calm when doing what she had to do but if she did something wrong and I corrected her by saying ldquonordquo she would just fall apart so then I new she was a soft dog to train so we went about training differently We introduced a tennis ball

Well that was a BAD mistake She is a ball freak so it made it easier for her after she had done something right I would throw the ball and that was her reward She loved the food as reward but preferred the ball I think and then she excelled in the training for her CDX title I then entered her in her first CDX trial on the 30705 and she had a ball gaining 176200 with a 3rd place I new she wasnt really ready but thought what the hell only way to learn is to put her in the trial so we did and was pleased she gained her 1st pass

How Cassie became an Australian Obedience Champion

AOC AUST CH BAJED MISS BLACKBERRY AD

SIRE CHERABAH THDIVIL NBLACK DAM BAJED MISS PLUM - BORN 3RD

MAY 2004

Continued on page 10

We were still showing her as well and we dont do trials every weekend as we wanted to get her Championship title

so then we did some shows then thought buggar it will enter her in obedience again and on the 151005 and she gained her 2nd pass in CDX

with a score of 174200 Wasnt a great score for her but was pleased as she was still learning the exercises and was

still very young I then though 1 more pass to go for her CDX title so I put her in a trial only a week later and she

gained her CDX title with a score of 178200 and with a 2nd place This was a great achievement for one so young and just only completing her CD title I

entered her in a couple more CDX trials and she scored an awesome score of 187200 and 1st place This was to be

her last CDX trial as she was then shown and she started her UD ( Utility Dog) title training

Boy what a challenge UD is to train a dog There is a lot more things involved in UD and takes a while to train a dog

Usually some dogs take over a year just to train for all the exercises but Cassie wow she was awesome I think it took her about 5 or 6 months to train for

every exercise

It was a challenge as she had to find just one article ( metal leather and wood)

amongst 12 other articles of the metal wood and leather Was a challenge to teach her just to scent for

the one I touched and she wasnt sure what I wanted her to do so I had to sew all the 12 articles onto a white sheet so she couldnt just pick up

anyone

So I put the article I touched onto the sheet with the sewed ones on it and

hoping this will teach her to only get the one with my scent on it as the others should couldnt get as they were

sewed down I sent her out to find the

one I touched and it took her a while not to pick up the sewed down ones and she finally found the loose one I

had touched So we did this with all the articles and this would have had to be the hardest one to teach any dog because they dont like the metal on

their teeth

ldquoBoy what a challenge UD is to train a dogrdquo

motoxgrl83yahoocomwwwlbellestaffordscom

Continued from page 8

Continued on page 13

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtml dnatestingahtorguk

wwwcornerstonesta f fords net

wwwstaffierescuescotlandcouk

staffcharmgmailcom

When we were doing this exercise I kept the 3 articles the

same all the time so it had my scent on them and was easier

for her to find them and no what she had to do and that she

had to sniff them out to find the right one When she started

using her nose I took all the cotton off the sewed ones and

they were all loose Now the time had come to see if she

could really do it and find the one I touched amongst all the

other loose ones I put the one I touched on the sheet and

sent her to ldquofindrdquo She went out and to my amazement she

found the right one so I knew the method had worked She

did all 3 good so now was to train for the box and jumps

She loved this one and didnt take long before she learnt that

as well I then taught her to find the ldquoseek backrdquo Its a piece

of leather dropped by the judge This was kind of easy for

Cassie to learn and I found this the easiest one to teach her

After that I had to teach her the stand drop and come so I

was speaking and doing the signals at same time Then I cut

out the speaking and she new what the signals meant

Then came the food refusal I never thought a Stafford could

refuse food She learnt very quickly not to touch the food

So she had concurred the whole of the UD exercises and I

thought might as well enter her in a trail Nothing to loose

and will give her a bit of practise in a trial situation Lets say

in her 1st trial we got a couple of 0s She just wasnt sure on

what she was meant to be doing as it was a different place

and not the back yard So we kept entering her in UD as well

as showing her

On the 16208 she gained her 1st pass with an awesome

score of 188200 and a 1st place This was an awesome score

being in UD as I was told I was just going for a score of

170200 which is the qualifying score for a pass in UD So I

was pretty stoked with her We then started to have trouble

with her eating the food in ldquofood refusal and she was

loosing out on a pass So we kept going with the food and

just did more training with her and she then got her 2nd

pass on the 19408 with another great score of 187200

with a 2nd place As we font trial every weekend it was good

that she new what she had to do even with little training I

found if I kept training her in UD she would just get bored

so we only trained a little everyday of 2 exercises and she

was ok with that

We then entered the Royal QLD Show for the 1st time in 08

where she went onto get her UD title with a score of

176200 and 3rd place This was a great achievement for her

as the grounds were awful Cows had been doing there

business where we were trialling so all the UD dogs did a

very good job This was the best feeling to get her title at

such a great show

Then the fun began going for her Australian Obedience

Champion (AOC) title

ldquoI never thought a Stafford could refuse food ldquo

Continued on next page

Continued from page 10

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

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joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

rqaurtzaolcom httpwwwblessingskennelorg

httpwwwstaffie-rescueorg

13 Arthritis is a general term that encompasses a large number of entities The simplest of explanations would be

to say that arthritis is an inflammation of the joint

Osteoarthritis is the most common

form of inflammatory joint disease both in humans and in Canines

Interestingly enough there are hardly any recordable cases in the Feline species

Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease that can be classified by two pathological processes

1 degeneration of the articular cartilage with a loss of proteoglycan

and collagen and

2 proliferation of new bone In addition a variable inflammatory

response occurs within the synovial membrane

Overall Osteoarthritis is an

inflammatory disease that causes stiffness pain swelling and limited movement

The risk of Osteoarthritis generally increases with the age of the dog

usually affecting dogs over the age of 7 Clinical signs are more prevalent in working dogs obese dogs and dogs that are kept outside in cold or damp

conditions Dogs who suffer physical trauma and developmental disorders such as patella luxations or hip

dysplasia also have an increased incidence

PREVENTION

In many parts of the world arthritis is

nonexistent People who eat a diet

largely based on fruits and vegetables

never complain about joint disease

On the canine side there is much talk

about Osteoarthritis being largely

associated with malnourishment

deficiency and toxic build-up It is

hence not a stretch to assume that

excessive waste from carbohydrates

grains and other inappropriate proteins

create toxic waste and when not

properly eliminated become a cesspool

for disease When there is an excess of

waste that cannot be eliminated by the

liver skin and other vital organs the

excess nitrogenic waste in the form of

urea is typically deposited in the joints

when the kidneys can no longer work

efficiently or effectively

In order to alleviate the debilitating

effects that arthritis has on the human

body most wholistic health care

professionals suggest a vegetarian diet

of whole foods such as fruits and

vegetables with limited amounts of

whole grains The idea behind this diet

is to meet what the body needs but not

to exceed it The body easily eliminates

fruits and vegetables and complex

carbohydrates (for an omnivore) are

easily converted into useable energy

without putting excess wear and tear

on the body

Apply that same theory to carnivores

and since dogs are carnivores we apply

that theory to them Cereals grains

fruits and vegetables are not part of a

carnivorersquos diet so therefore it stands

to reason that these ingredients would

serve to create excessive waste

production in the body If canines were

fed a species appropriate diet it would

make sense that the body would

process and convert proteins

appropriately

Essential fatty acids or Omega 3

originally known as Vitamin F have

proven to reduce inflammation in both

humans and animals These oils are

essential to the health of your dog

The question lies within its source if

carnivores cannot assimilate plant or

grain matter then it would be correct

to assume that oils from plants are not

effective for dogs Fish would be the

best source of EFAs for a carnivore It is

also important to note that high

amounts of EFA Omega 6 caused

increased collagen induced arthritis in

rats and exasperates vasculitis in

autoimmune mice

Arthritis

Continued on next page

It is important also to note that Omega 3 reduces inflammation and Omega 6 tends to promote inflammation

Clearly a balance is important

Obesity can contribute to inflammatory conditions If your dog is overweight it puts unnecessary stress on the

digestive tract which in turn puts pressure on the joints themselves If the body is under stress from excess

weight then it cannot perform its function properly Keep your dog lean and fit

Choosing a good breeder that regularly tests for Hip and Elbow dysplasia is a great place to start If we can start with good genetics then it reduces the

chances by some small degree

What is very interesting is that inflammation is central to the

cutaneous manifestation of psoriasis and atopic eczema This brings us to the skin being a sponge for toxins

absorbing excess waste from unusable proteins An important rule to remember is to meet but not exceed what the body needs

Some natural aids and preventatives

HERBAL SOLUTIONS

Licorice root is a natural corticosteroid and stimulates the secretion of hormones by the adrenal glands It is

an anti-inflammatory and reduces swelling and eases some skin conditions

Boswellia- Stimulates tissue immunity

repairs damaged tissue compare with Ibuprofen

Bromelain- A protein digesting enzyme that relaxes muscles helps with spasms anti-inflammatory

Comfrey ndash reduces bone inflammation-osteitis

Cayenne- For pain

Chamomile- anti-inflammatory good

for spasms relieves pain and reduces swelling

Curcumin- Anti-inflammatory reduces

pain swelling tenderness

Ginger ndash reduces inflammation pain and swelling Blocks the bodyrsquos

production of inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandin and leukotriene

Gotu Kola- Stimulates Collagen synthesis for healing tendons and

ligaments

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

The following is a basic guideline Potency and dosage are dependent on the state of disease and the individual

animal Be sure to have a good Materia Medica for reference or a good relationship with a homeopathic practitioner

Rhus tox 30c - If pain and stiffness is better after movement

Arnica 30c- for bruising aching

soreness

Ruta grav 30c- helps ease inflammation

Hypericum 30c ndash if pinched or injured

nerves may be involved Has particularly good action on the sacrum and the coccyx

Bryonia 30c- If the animal prefers to

stay in one place

Acid salicylicum 6c - Aggravated by movement joints are tender to the touch

Actaea rac 6c ndash heaviness in limbs stiffness and awkwardness while moving

Calc fluor 30c ndash swelling of the joints

especially useful when the carpus is indicated

There is an amazing correlation between joint injury and the skin Most cases of arthritis has some relationship

to skin disease of varying degrees When treating pain and discomfort always remember to look at the whole picture including the immune system

Remember to find as similar a picture as possible between the remedy of choice and the individual dog

Herbal Homeopathy Acupuncture TCM and other alternative modalities have high success rates in the care and

management of pain in dogs with Arthritis Generally the use of NSAIDs is not necessary or recommended

Erika Phillips

Studied Homeopathy at British Institute Of Homeopathy

TSK Staff Columnist

lsquoThe Controversial Caninersquo

ldquo If we can start with good genetics then it reduces the chances by some small degree ldquo

Continued from page 5

L2-HGA amp HC DATABASE PROJECT

THE STAFFORD KNOT ONLY ACCEPTS ADS FROM OWNERS AND BREEDERS OF DOGS WHO HAVE BEEN HEALTH TESTED THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS ARE L2-HGA amp HC TESTING WE PROVIDE INFORMATION ON WHERE TO GO TO HAVE THESE SIMPLE AND INEXPENSIVE TESTS PERFORMED

DOCUMENTATION IS REQUIRED TO BE SCANNED AND SENT IN TO THE EDITORS FOR APPROVAL FURTHER HEALTH TESTING (CARDIAC CERF PHPV HIPS ELBOWS PATELLA ETC) IS ALSO ENCOURAGED IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO BUYERS THAT THEY SEE THESE DOCUMENTS PRIOR TO PURCHASING THEIR NEW STAFFORD

IF ALL BREEDERS AND OWNERS WERE TO TEST STAFFORDS WOULD ALL BE BETTER OFF SIMPLY BY THE FACT THAT WE WOULD HAVE MORE INFORMATION REGARDING WHERE THIS BREED IS GOING AS FAR AS HEALTH MATTERS ARE CONCERNED

TO FURTHER THIS POINT IF ONLY CLEAR TESTED (L2-HGA amp HC) STAFFORDS ARE BRED FROM - THESE TWO GENETIC DISEASES COULD BE ERADICATED IN THREE GENERATIONS OF BREEDING THATrsquoS CERTAINLY SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

SOME ARGUE THAT THIS WOULD NARROW THE GENE POOL TOO MUCH AND IS NOT A NEEDED STEP TO IMPROVING THE FUTURE OF THIS BREED TO THOSE I SAY POSSIBLY HOWEVER - IS THAT CARRIER STUD DOG SO STRUCTURALLY SUPERIOR TO HIS CLEAR TESTED BROTHER THAT YOU WOULDNrsquoT CONSIDER USING THE BROTHER INSTEAD JUST SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

TSK IS COMPILING REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED DOCUMENTS OF ALL TESTED (CLEAR CARRIER AND AFFECTED) STAFFORDS FOR A FUTURE DATABASE PROJECT SO THAT DOCUMENTATION WILL BE ON HAND FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS IN THE US OUR REGISTRIES DO NOT DOCUMENT THESE TEST RESULTS AS THE KC DOES IN THE UK THEREFORE TOO MANY PEOPLE WHO OWN lsquoCLEAR BY PARENTAGErsquo STAFFORDS HAVE NO PROOF IN HAND SEVERAL GENERATIONS DOWN THE LINE IN TIME WE AT TSK HOPE THE DATABASE WILL HELP THOSE WHO WISH TO KNOW THE STATUS OF A PARTICULAR DOG OR LITTER

IF YOU HAVE A TESTED STAFFORD - PLEASE SEND ONE EMAIL TO HEALTHTHESTAFFORDKNOTCOM CONTAINING THE FULL REGISTERED NAME REGISTRATION NUMBER SIRE AND DAM REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED COPIES OF ALL HEALTH TESTING DONE ON YOUR DOG PLEASE ONLY SEND ONE EMAIL PER DOG IN TIME WE HOPE TO BUILD A NAME ONLY DATABASE WITH THIS INFORMATION THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING

I was after a bitch to start being serious about obedience I did do obedience with Kirra ( Aust Ch Hapustaff Black Magic CDX AD JD ) but she hated it so had to find another I then rang John and Nola ( Bajed ) to see if they had any bitch pups She said she had 3 bitches but she wasnt sure what they were keeping and that she would let me know when they have made there mind up so when they were 3 months I went up to Mount Larcom and had a look at the 3 girls Bearing in mind the pup was going to be owned by my son Michael so she had to be prepared to be pulled around and hugged and stuff So I picked them all up and the other 2 didnt like cuddles so I picked up Cassie and she just laid there I said to Nola ldquo this one pleaserdquo and thats how we picked her out of her sisters I didnt check mouths or anything as that wasnt a major part to me as I wanted her for Michael and to be my next champion in obedience

We bought her home and she fitted in really well and Kirra and her we inseparable They are the best of friends and have never had a fight

She had her first show at 4 months and kicked some butt and every show she went in she either won or got 2nd so I thought wow I have a stunner here in the show ring so we kept showing her and she did very well She did especially well in the specialty rings with many in show awards and her recent winning RBCC amp Best State Bred In Show at our SBTCQ 2010 under Mrs Griet Coetzer ( Zeracious SBT ) She loves to show and especially loves it when kids show her in junior handlers She makes a very good junior handler dog and has qualified quite a few kids for the finals in handlers

She gained her Australian Championship title at 2 frac12 yrs of age and thoroughly enjoyed it and I had a ball showing and still show her on occasions now

We started her obedience career at the age of 12 months She loved doing it and was always eager to please me and hated doing anything wrong so I had to encourage her when she wasnt sure just to let her no its ok to do somethings wrong She didnt think so though In her mind she had to do everything right the first time so we started training and back when she started they never had the new title CCD title available so we went straight into Novice (CD) It is all off lead and she didnt mind it much but had to keep reminding her she had to stay beside me and not about half metre away She didnt take long to train for the CD so off we went to her first Novice sweepstakes You have to get a sweepstakes of 150 to qualify first before you can compete in CD

( Novice ) She was just over a yr old and gained her first sweepstakes pass of 182200 and 1st place on the 22505 I was very pleased with her and thought I had something special in the obedience ring So we kept training for CD and getting ready for her first trial on 4605 where she scored 188200 and 1st place and this was her 1st pass for her CD title We then didnt train much as I found out I couldnt with her as she just hated being trained She would rather just get out there and do it She was very smart and only needed minimal training which many people didnt like because they had to train train and train there dogs but with Cassie just maybe 1 day a week was all she needed She then went onto gain her next pass in CD on the 2705 with a score of 187200 and yet another 1st place I then went onto to get her CD title 2 weeks later with an awesome score of 192200 and 1st place again So that was her CD title and looked good on her paperwork to show she had brains as

well as beauty I was training her for CDX while competing in CD so she was just about ready to trial in CDX ( Companion Dog Excellence ) Just had to get the out of sight stays down pat which she didnt have a problem with at all

She loved the jumps and the dumbbell but did everything at a nice pace not a psycho pass She was very calm when doing what she had to do but if she did something wrong and I corrected her by saying ldquonordquo she would just fall apart so then I new she was a soft dog to train so we went about training differently We introduced a tennis ball

Well that was a BAD mistake She is a ball freak so it made it easier for her after she had done something right I would throw the ball and that was her reward She loved the food as reward but preferred the ball I think and then she excelled in the training for her CDX title I then entered her in her first CDX trial on the 30705 and she had a ball gaining 176200 with a 3rd place I new she wasnt really ready but thought what the hell only way to learn is to put her in the trial so we did and was pleased she gained her 1st pass

How Cassie became an Australian Obedience Champion

AOC AUST CH BAJED MISS BLACKBERRY AD

SIRE CHERABAH THDIVIL NBLACK DAM BAJED MISS PLUM - BORN 3RD

MAY 2004

Continued on page 10

We were still showing her as well and we dont do trials every weekend as we wanted to get her Championship title

so then we did some shows then thought buggar it will enter her in obedience again and on the 151005 and she gained her 2nd pass in CDX

with a score of 174200 Wasnt a great score for her but was pleased as she was still learning the exercises and was

still very young I then though 1 more pass to go for her CDX title so I put her in a trial only a week later and she

gained her CDX title with a score of 178200 and with a 2nd place This was a great achievement for one so young and just only completing her CD title I

entered her in a couple more CDX trials and she scored an awesome score of 187200 and 1st place This was to be

her last CDX trial as she was then shown and she started her UD ( Utility Dog) title training

Boy what a challenge UD is to train a dog There is a lot more things involved in UD and takes a while to train a dog

Usually some dogs take over a year just to train for all the exercises but Cassie wow she was awesome I think it took her about 5 or 6 months to train for

every exercise

It was a challenge as she had to find just one article ( metal leather and wood)

amongst 12 other articles of the metal wood and leather Was a challenge to teach her just to scent for

the one I touched and she wasnt sure what I wanted her to do so I had to sew all the 12 articles onto a white sheet so she couldnt just pick up

anyone

So I put the article I touched onto the sheet with the sewed ones on it and

hoping this will teach her to only get the one with my scent on it as the others should couldnt get as they were

sewed down I sent her out to find the

one I touched and it took her a while not to pick up the sewed down ones and she finally found the loose one I

had touched So we did this with all the articles and this would have had to be the hardest one to teach any dog because they dont like the metal on

their teeth

ldquoBoy what a challenge UD is to train a dogrdquo

motoxgrl83yahoocomwwwlbellestaffordscom

Continued from page 8

Continued on page 13

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtml dnatestingahtorguk

wwwcornerstonesta f fords net

wwwstaffierescuescotlandcouk

staffcharmgmailcom

When we were doing this exercise I kept the 3 articles the

same all the time so it had my scent on them and was easier

for her to find them and no what she had to do and that she

had to sniff them out to find the right one When she started

using her nose I took all the cotton off the sewed ones and

they were all loose Now the time had come to see if she

could really do it and find the one I touched amongst all the

other loose ones I put the one I touched on the sheet and

sent her to ldquofindrdquo She went out and to my amazement she

found the right one so I knew the method had worked She

did all 3 good so now was to train for the box and jumps

She loved this one and didnt take long before she learnt that

as well I then taught her to find the ldquoseek backrdquo Its a piece

of leather dropped by the judge This was kind of easy for

Cassie to learn and I found this the easiest one to teach her

After that I had to teach her the stand drop and come so I

was speaking and doing the signals at same time Then I cut

out the speaking and she new what the signals meant

Then came the food refusal I never thought a Stafford could

refuse food She learnt very quickly not to touch the food

So she had concurred the whole of the UD exercises and I

thought might as well enter her in a trail Nothing to loose

and will give her a bit of practise in a trial situation Lets say

in her 1st trial we got a couple of 0s She just wasnt sure on

what she was meant to be doing as it was a different place

and not the back yard So we kept entering her in UD as well

as showing her

On the 16208 she gained her 1st pass with an awesome

score of 188200 and a 1st place This was an awesome score

being in UD as I was told I was just going for a score of

170200 which is the qualifying score for a pass in UD So I

was pretty stoked with her We then started to have trouble

with her eating the food in ldquofood refusal and she was

loosing out on a pass So we kept going with the food and

just did more training with her and she then got her 2nd

pass on the 19408 with another great score of 187200

with a 2nd place As we font trial every weekend it was good

that she new what she had to do even with little training I

found if I kept training her in UD she would just get bored

so we only trained a little everyday of 2 exercises and she

was ok with that

We then entered the Royal QLD Show for the 1st time in 08

where she went onto get her UD title with a score of

176200 and 3rd place This was a great achievement for her

as the grounds were awful Cows had been doing there

business where we were trialling so all the UD dogs did a

very good job This was the best feeling to get her title at

such a great show

Then the fun began going for her Australian Obedience

Champion (AOC) title

ldquoI never thought a Stafford could refuse food ldquo

Continued on next page

Continued from page 10

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

13 Arthritis is a general term that encompasses a large number of entities The simplest of explanations would be

to say that arthritis is an inflammation of the joint

Osteoarthritis is the most common

form of inflammatory joint disease both in humans and in Canines

Interestingly enough there are hardly any recordable cases in the Feline species

Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease that can be classified by two pathological processes

1 degeneration of the articular cartilage with a loss of proteoglycan

and collagen and

2 proliferation of new bone In addition a variable inflammatory

response occurs within the synovial membrane

Overall Osteoarthritis is an

inflammatory disease that causes stiffness pain swelling and limited movement

The risk of Osteoarthritis generally increases with the age of the dog

usually affecting dogs over the age of 7 Clinical signs are more prevalent in working dogs obese dogs and dogs that are kept outside in cold or damp

conditions Dogs who suffer physical trauma and developmental disorders such as patella luxations or hip

dysplasia also have an increased incidence

PREVENTION

In many parts of the world arthritis is

nonexistent People who eat a diet

largely based on fruits and vegetables

never complain about joint disease

On the canine side there is much talk

about Osteoarthritis being largely

associated with malnourishment

deficiency and toxic build-up It is

hence not a stretch to assume that

excessive waste from carbohydrates

grains and other inappropriate proteins

create toxic waste and when not

properly eliminated become a cesspool

for disease When there is an excess of

waste that cannot be eliminated by the

liver skin and other vital organs the

excess nitrogenic waste in the form of

urea is typically deposited in the joints

when the kidneys can no longer work

efficiently or effectively

In order to alleviate the debilitating

effects that arthritis has on the human

body most wholistic health care

professionals suggest a vegetarian diet

of whole foods such as fruits and

vegetables with limited amounts of

whole grains The idea behind this diet

is to meet what the body needs but not

to exceed it The body easily eliminates

fruits and vegetables and complex

carbohydrates (for an omnivore) are

easily converted into useable energy

without putting excess wear and tear

on the body

Apply that same theory to carnivores

and since dogs are carnivores we apply

that theory to them Cereals grains

fruits and vegetables are not part of a

carnivorersquos diet so therefore it stands

to reason that these ingredients would

serve to create excessive waste

production in the body If canines were

fed a species appropriate diet it would

make sense that the body would

process and convert proteins

appropriately

Essential fatty acids or Omega 3

originally known as Vitamin F have

proven to reduce inflammation in both

humans and animals These oils are

essential to the health of your dog

The question lies within its source if

carnivores cannot assimilate plant or

grain matter then it would be correct

to assume that oils from plants are not

effective for dogs Fish would be the

best source of EFAs for a carnivore It is

also important to note that high

amounts of EFA Omega 6 caused

increased collagen induced arthritis in

rats and exasperates vasculitis in

autoimmune mice

Arthritis

Continued on next page

It is important also to note that Omega 3 reduces inflammation and Omega 6 tends to promote inflammation

Clearly a balance is important

Obesity can contribute to inflammatory conditions If your dog is overweight it puts unnecessary stress on the

digestive tract which in turn puts pressure on the joints themselves If the body is under stress from excess

weight then it cannot perform its function properly Keep your dog lean and fit

Choosing a good breeder that regularly tests for Hip and Elbow dysplasia is a great place to start If we can start with good genetics then it reduces the

chances by some small degree

What is very interesting is that inflammation is central to the

cutaneous manifestation of psoriasis and atopic eczema This brings us to the skin being a sponge for toxins

absorbing excess waste from unusable proteins An important rule to remember is to meet but not exceed what the body needs

Some natural aids and preventatives

HERBAL SOLUTIONS

Licorice root is a natural corticosteroid and stimulates the secretion of hormones by the adrenal glands It is

an anti-inflammatory and reduces swelling and eases some skin conditions

Boswellia- Stimulates tissue immunity

repairs damaged tissue compare with Ibuprofen

Bromelain- A protein digesting enzyme that relaxes muscles helps with spasms anti-inflammatory

Comfrey ndash reduces bone inflammation-osteitis

Cayenne- For pain

Chamomile- anti-inflammatory good

for spasms relieves pain and reduces swelling

Curcumin- Anti-inflammatory reduces

pain swelling tenderness

Ginger ndash reduces inflammation pain and swelling Blocks the bodyrsquos

production of inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandin and leukotriene

Gotu Kola- Stimulates Collagen synthesis for healing tendons and

ligaments

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

The following is a basic guideline Potency and dosage are dependent on the state of disease and the individual

animal Be sure to have a good Materia Medica for reference or a good relationship with a homeopathic practitioner

Rhus tox 30c - If pain and stiffness is better after movement

Arnica 30c- for bruising aching

soreness

Ruta grav 30c- helps ease inflammation

Hypericum 30c ndash if pinched or injured

nerves may be involved Has particularly good action on the sacrum and the coccyx

Bryonia 30c- If the animal prefers to

stay in one place

Acid salicylicum 6c - Aggravated by movement joints are tender to the touch

Actaea rac 6c ndash heaviness in limbs stiffness and awkwardness while moving

Calc fluor 30c ndash swelling of the joints

especially useful when the carpus is indicated

There is an amazing correlation between joint injury and the skin Most cases of arthritis has some relationship

to skin disease of varying degrees When treating pain and discomfort always remember to look at the whole picture including the immune system

Remember to find as similar a picture as possible between the remedy of choice and the individual dog

Herbal Homeopathy Acupuncture TCM and other alternative modalities have high success rates in the care and

management of pain in dogs with Arthritis Generally the use of NSAIDs is not necessary or recommended

Erika Phillips

Studied Homeopathy at British Institute Of Homeopathy

TSK Staff Columnist

lsquoThe Controversial Caninersquo

ldquo If we can start with good genetics then it reduces the chances by some small degree ldquo

Continued from page 5

L2-HGA amp HC DATABASE PROJECT

THE STAFFORD KNOT ONLY ACCEPTS ADS FROM OWNERS AND BREEDERS OF DOGS WHO HAVE BEEN HEALTH TESTED THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS ARE L2-HGA amp HC TESTING WE PROVIDE INFORMATION ON WHERE TO GO TO HAVE THESE SIMPLE AND INEXPENSIVE TESTS PERFORMED

DOCUMENTATION IS REQUIRED TO BE SCANNED AND SENT IN TO THE EDITORS FOR APPROVAL FURTHER HEALTH TESTING (CARDIAC CERF PHPV HIPS ELBOWS PATELLA ETC) IS ALSO ENCOURAGED IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO BUYERS THAT THEY SEE THESE DOCUMENTS PRIOR TO PURCHASING THEIR NEW STAFFORD

IF ALL BREEDERS AND OWNERS WERE TO TEST STAFFORDS WOULD ALL BE BETTER OFF SIMPLY BY THE FACT THAT WE WOULD HAVE MORE INFORMATION REGARDING WHERE THIS BREED IS GOING AS FAR AS HEALTH MATTERS ARE CONCERNED

TO FURTHER THIS POINT IF ONLY CLEAR TESTED (L2-HGA amp HC) STAFFORDS ARE BRED FROM - THESE TWO GENETIC DISEASES COULD BE ERADICATED IN THREE GENERATIONS OF BREEDING THATrsquoS CERTAINLY SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

SOME ARGUE THAT THIS WOULD NARROW THE GENE POOL TOO MUCH AND IS NOT A NEEDED STEP TO IMPROVING THE FUTURE OF THIS BREED TO THOSE I SAY POSSIBLY HOWEVER - IS THAT CARRIER STUD DOG SO STRUCTURALLY SUPERIOR TO HIS CLEAR TESTED BROTHER THAT YOU WOULDNrsquoT CONSIDER USING THE BROTHER INSTEAD JUST SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

TSK IS COMPILING REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED DOCUMENTS OF ALL TESTED (CLEAR CARRIER AND AFFECTED) STAFFORDS FOR A FUTURE DATABASE PROJECT SO THAT DOCUMENTATION WILL BE ON HAND FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS IN THE US OUR REGISTRIES DO NOT DOCUMENT THESE TEST RESULTS AS THE KC DOES IN THE UK THEREFORE TOO MANY PEOPLE WHO OWN lsquoCLEAR BY PARENTAGErsquo STAFFORDS HAVE NO PROOF IN HAND SEVERAL GENERATIONS DOWN THE LINE IN TIME WE AT TSK HOPE THE DATABASE WILL HELP THOSE WHO WISH TO KNOW THE STATUS OF A PARTICULAR DOG OR LITTER

IF YOU HAVE A TESTED STAFFORD - PLEASE SEND ONE EMAIL TO HEALTHTHESTAFFORDKNOTCOM CONTAINING THE FULL REGISTERED NAME REGISTRATION NUMBER SIRE AND DAM REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED COPIES OF ALL HEALTH TESTING DONE ON YOUR DOG PLEASE ONLY SEND ONE EMAIL PER DOG IN TIME WE HOPE TO BUILD A NAME ONLY DATABASE WITH THIS INFORMATION THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING

I was after a bitch to start being serious about obedience I did do obedience with Kirra ( Aust Ch Hapustaff Black Magic CDX AD JD ) but she hated it so had to find another I then rang John and Nola ( Bajed ) to see if they had any bitch pups She said she had 3 bitches but she wasnt sure what they were keeping and that she would let me know when they have made there mind up so when they were 3 months I went up to Mount Larcom and had a look at the 3 girls Bearing in mind the pup was going to be owned by my son Michael so she had to be prepared to be pulled around and hugged and stuff So I picked them all up and the other 2 didnt like cuddles so I picked up Cassie and she just laid there I said to Nola ldquo this one pleaserdquo and thats how we picked her out of her sisters I didnt check mouths or anything as that wasnt a major part to me as I wanted her for Michael and to be my next champion in obedience

We bought her home and she fitted in really well and Kirra and her we inseparable They are the best of friends and have never had a fight

She had her first show at 4 months and kicked some butt and every show she went in she either won or got 2nd so I thought wow I have a stunner here in the show ring so we kept showing her and she did very well She did especially well in the specialty rings with many in show awards and her recent winning RBCC amp Best State Bred In Show at our SBTCQ 2010 under Mrs Griet Coetzer ( Zeracious SBT ) She loves to show and especially loves it when kids show her in junior handlers She makes a very good junior handler dog and has qualified quite a few kids for the finals in handlers

She gained her Australian Championship title at 2 frac12 yrs of age and thoroughly enjoyed it and I had a ball showing and still show her on occasions now

We started her obedience career at the age of 12 months She loved doing it and was always eager to please me and hated doing anything wrong so I had to encourage her when she wasnt sure just to let her no its ok to do somethings wrong She didnt think so though In her mind she had to do everything right the first time so we started training and back when she started they never had the new title CCD title available so we went straight into Novice (CD) It is all off lead and she didnt mind it much but had to keep reminding her she had to stay beside me and not about half metre away She didnt take long to train for the CD so off we went to her first Novice sweepstakes You have to get a sweepstakes of 150 to qualify first before you can compete in CD

( Novice ) She was just over a yr old and gained her first sweepstakes pass of 182200 and 1st place on the 22505 I was very pleased with her and thought I had something special in the obedience ring So we kept training for CD and getting ready for her first trial on 4605 where she scored 188200 and 1st place and this was her 1st pass for her CD title We then didnt train much as I found out I couldnt with her as she just hated being trained She would rather just get out there and do it She was very smart and only needed minimal training which many people didnt like because they had to train train and train there dogs but with Cassie just maybe 1 day a week was all she needed She then went onto gain her next pass in CD on the 2705 with a score of 187200 and yet another 1st place I then went onto to get her CD title 2 weeks later with an awesome score of 192200 and 1st place again So that was her CD title and looked good on her paperwork to show she had brains as

well as beauty I was training her for CDX while competing in CD so she was just about ready to trial in CDX ( Companion Dog Excellence ) Just had to get the out of sight stays down pat which she didnt have a problem with at all

She loved the jumps and the dumbbell but did everything at a nice pace not a psycho pass She was very calm when doing what she had to do but if she did something wrong and I corrected her by saying ldquonordquo she would just fall apart so then I new she was a soft dog to train so we went about training differently We introduced a tennis ball

Well that was a BAD mistake She is a ball freak so it made it easier for her after she had done something right I would throw the ball and that was her reward She loved the food as reward but preferred the ball I think and then she excelled in the training for her CDX title I then entered her in her first CDX trial on the 30705 and she had a ball gaining 176200 with a 3rd place I new she wasnt really ready but thought what the hell only way to learn is to put her in the trial so we did and was pleased she gained her 1st pass

How Cassie became an Australian Obedience Champion

AOC AUST CH BAJED MISS BLACKBERRY AD

SIRE CHERABAH THDIVIL NBLACK DAM BAJED MISS PLUM - BORN 3RD

MAY 2004

Continued on page 10

We were still showing her as well and we dont do trials every weekend as we wanted to get her Championship title

so then we did some shows then thought buggar it will enter her in obedience again and on the 151005 and she gained her 2nd pass in CDX

with a score of 174200 Wasnt a great score for her but was pleased as she was still learning the exercises and was

still very young I then though 1 more pass to go for her CDX title so I put her in a trial only a week later and she

gained her CDX title with a score of 178200 and with a 2nd place This was a great achievement for one so young and just only completing her CD title I

entered her in a couple more CDX trials and she scored an awesome score of 187200 and 1st place This was to be

her last CDX trial as she was then shown and she started her UD ( Utility Dog) title training

Boy what a challenge UD is to train a dog There is a lot more things involved in UD and takes a while to train a dog

Usually some dogs take over a year just to train for all the exercises but Cassie wow she was awesome I think it took her about 5 or 6 months to train for

every exercise

It was a challenge as she had to find just one article ( metal leather and wood)

amongst 12 other articles of the metal wood and leather Was a challenge to teach her just to scent for

the one I touched and she wasnt sure what I wanted her to do so I had to sew all the 12 articles onto a white sheet so she couldnt just pick up

anyone

So I put the article I touched onto the sheet with the sewed ones on it and

hoping this will teach her to only get the one with my scent on it as the others should couldnt get as they were

sewed down I sent her out to find the

one I touched and it took her a while not to pick up the sewed down ones and she finally found the loose one I

had touched So we did this with all the articles and this would have had to be the hardest one to teach any dog because they dont like the metal on

their teeth

ldquoBoy what a challenge UD is to train a dogrdquo

motoxgrl83yahoocomwwwlbellestaffordscom

Continued from page 8

Continued on page 13

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtml dnatestingahtorguk

wwwcornerstonesta f fords net

wwwstaffierescuescotlandcouk

staffcharmgmailcom

When we were doing this exercise I kept the 3 articles the

same all the time so it had my scent on them and was easier

for her to find them and no what she had to do and that she

had to sniff them out to find the right one When she started

using her nose I took all the cotton off the sewed ones and

they were all loose Now the time had come to see if she

could really do it and find the one I touched amongst all the

other loose ones I put the one I touched on the sheet and

sent her to ldquofindrdquo She went out and to my amazement she

found the right one so I knew the method had worked She

did all 3 good so now was to train for the box and jumps

She loved this one and didnt take long before she learnt that

as well I then taught her to find the ldquoseek backrdquo Its a piece

of leather dropped by the judge This was kind of easy for

Cassie to learn and I found this the easiest one to teach her

After that I had to teach her the stand drop and come so I

was speaking and doing the signals at same time Then I cut

out the speaking and she new what the signals meant

Then came the food refusal I never thought a Stafford could

refuse food She learnt very quickly not to touch the food

So she had concurred the whole of the UD exercises and I

thought might as well enter her in a trail Nothing to loose

and will give her a bit of practise in a trial situation Lets say

in her 1st trial we got a couple of 0s She just wasnt sure on

what she was meant to be doing as it was a different place

and not the back yard So we kept entering her in UD as well

as showing her

On the 16208 she gained her 1st pass with an awesome

score of 188200 and a 1st place This was an awesome score

being in UD as I was told I was just going for a score of

170200 which is the qualifying score for a pass in UD So I

was pretty stoked with her We then started to have trouble

with her eating the food in ldquofood refusal and she was

loosing out on a pass So we kept going with the food and

just did more training with her and she then got her 2nd

pass on the 19408 with another great score of 187200

with a 2nd place As we font trial every weekend it was good

that she new what she had to do even with little training I

found if I kept training her in UD she would just get bored

so we only trained a little everyday of 2 exercises and she

was ok with that

We then entered the Royal QLD Show for the 1st time in 08

where she went onto get her UD title with a score of

176200 and 3rd place This was a great achievement for her

as the grounds were awful Cows had been doing there

business where we were trialling so all the UD dogs did a

very good job This was the best feeling to get her title at

such a great show

Then the fun began going for her Australian Obedience

Champion (AOC) title

ldquoI never thought a Stafford could refuse food ldquo

Continued on next page

Continued from page 10

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

It is important also to note that Omega 3 reduces inflammation and Omega 6 tends to promote inflammation

Clearly a balance is important

Obesity can contribute to inflammatory conditions If your dog is overweight it puts unnecessary stress on the

digestive tract which in turn puts pressure on the joints themselves If the body is under stress from excess

weight then it cannot perform its function properly Keep your dog lean and fit

Choosing a good breeder that regularly tests for Hip and Elbow dysplasia is a great place to start If we can start with good genetics then it reduces the

chances by some small degree

What is very interesting is that inflammation is central to the

cutaneous manifestation of psoriasis and atopic eczema This brings us to the skin being a sponge for toxins

absorbing excess waste from unusable proteins An important rule to remember is to meet but not exceed what the body needs

Some natural aids and preventatives

HERBAL SOLUTIONS

Licorice root is a natural corticosteroid and stimulates the secretion of hormones by the adrenal glands It is

an anti-inflammatory and reduces swelling and eases some skin conditions

Boswellia- Stimulates tissue immunity

repairs damaged tissue compare with Ibuprofen

Bromelain- A protein digesting enzyme that relaxes muscles helps with spasms anti-inflammatory

Comfrey ndash reduces bone inflammation-osteitis

Cayenne- For pain

Chamomile- anti-inflammatory good

for spasms relieves pain and reduces swelling

Curcumin- Anti-inflammatory reduces

pain swelling tenderness

Ginger ndash reduces inflammation pain and swelling Blocks the bodyrsquos

production of inflammatory chemicals such as prostaglandin and leukotriene

Gotu Kola- Stimulates Collagen synthesis for healing tendons and

ligaments

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

The following is a basic guideline Potency and dosage are dependent on the state of disease and the individual

animal Be sure to have a good Materia Medica for reference or a good relationship with a homeopathic practitioner

Rhus tox 30c - If pain and stiffness is better after movement

Arnica 30c- for bruising aching

soreness

Ruta grav 30c- helps ease inflammation

Hypericum 30c ndash if pinched or injured

nerves may be involved Has particularly good action on the sacrum and the coccyx

Bryonia 30c- If the animal prefers to

stay in one place

Acid salicylicum 6c - Aggravated by movement joints are tender to the touch

Actaea rac 6c ndash heaviness in limbs stiffness and awkwardness while moving

Calc fluor 30c ndash swelling of the joints

especially useful when the carpus is indicated

There is an amazing correlation between joint injury and the skin Most cases of arthritis has some relationship

to skin disease of varying degrees When treating pain and discomfort always remember to look at the whole picture including the immune system

Remember to find as similar a picture as possible between the remedy of choice and the individual dog

Herbal Homeopathy Acupuncture TCM and other alternative modalities have high success rates in the care and

management of pain in dogs with Arthritis Generally the use of NSAIDs is not necessary or recommended

Erika Phillips

Studied Homeopathy at British Institute Of Homeopathy

TSK Staff Columnist

lsquoThe Controversial Caninersquo

ldquo If we can start with good genetics then it reduces the chances by some small degree ldquo

Continued from page 5

L2-HGA amp HC DATABASE PROJECT

THE STAFFORD KNOT ONLY ACCEPTS ADS FROM OWNERS AND BREEDERS OF DOGS WHO HAVE BEEN HEALTH TESTED THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS ARE L2-HGA amp HC TESTING WE PROVIDE INFORMATION ON WHERE TO GO TO HAVE THESE SIMPLE AND INEXPENSIVE TESTS PERFORMED

DOCUMENTATION IS REQUIRED TO BE SCANNED AND SENT IN TO THE EDITORS FOR APPROVAL FURTHER HEALTH TESTING (CARDIAC CERF PHPV HIPS ELBOWS PATELLA ETC) IS ALSO ENCOURAGED IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO BUYERS THAT THEY SEE THESE DOCUMENTS PRIOR TO PURCHASING THEIR NEW STAFFORD

IF ALL BREEDERS AND OWNERS WERE TO TEST STAFFORDS WOULD ALL BE BETTER OFF SIMPLY BY THE FACT THAT WE WOULD HAVE MORE INFORMATION REGARDING WHERE THIS BREED IS GOING AS FAR AS HEALTH MATTERS ARE CONCERNED

TO FURTHER THIS POINT IF ONLY CLEAR TESTED (L2-HGA amp HC) STAFFORDS ARE BRED FROM - THESE TWO GENETIC DISEASES COULD BE ERADICATED IN THREE GENERATIONS OF BREEDING THATrsquoS CERTAINLY SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

SOME ARGUE THAT THIS WOULD NARROW THE GENE POOL TOO MUCH AND IS NOT A NEEDED STEP TO IMPROVING THE FUTURE OF THIS BREED TO THOSE I SAY POSSIBLY HOWEVER - IS THAT CARRIER STUD DOG SO STRUCTURALLY SUPERIOR TO HIS CLEAR TESTED BROTHER THAT YOU WOULDNrsquoT CONSIDER USING THE BROTHER INSTEAD JUST SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

TSK IS COMPILING REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED DOCUMENTS OF ALL TESTED (CLEAR CARRIER AND AFFECTED) STAFFORDS FOR A FUTURE DATABASE PROJECT SO THAT DOCUMENTATION WILL BE ON HAND FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS IN THE US OUR REGISTRIES DO NOT DOCUMENT THESE TEST RESULTS AS THE KC DOES IN THE UK THEREFORE TOO MANY PEOPLE WHO OWN lsquoCLEAR BY PARENTAGErsquo STAFFORDS HAVE NO PROOF IN HAND SEVERAL GENERATIONS DOWN THE LINE IN TIME WE AT TSK HOPE THE DATABASE WILL HELP THOSE WHO WISH TO KNOW THE STATUS OF A PARTICULAR DOG OR LITTER

IF YOU HAVE A TESTED STAFFORD - PLEASE SEND ONE EMAIL TO HEALTHTHESTAFFORDKNOTCOM CONTAINING THE FULL REGISTERED NAME REGISTRATION NUMBER SIRE AND DAM REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED COPIES OF ALL HEALTH TESTING DONE ON YOUR DOG PLEASE ONLY SEND ONE EMAIL PER DOG IN TIME WE HOPE TO BUILD A NAME ONLY DATABASE WITH THIS INFORMATION THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING

I was after a bitch to start being serious about obedience I did do obedience with Kirra ( Aust Ch Hapustaff Black Magic CDX AD JD ) but she hated it so had to find another I then rang John and Nola ( Bajed ) to see if they had any bitch pups She said she had 3 bitches but she wasnt sure what they were keeping and that she would let me know when they have made there mind up so when they were 3 months I went up to Mount Larcom and had a look at the 3 girls Bearing in mind the pup was going to be owned by my son Michael so she had to be prepared to be pulled around and hugged and stuff So I picked them all up and the other 2 didnt like cuddles so I picked up Cassie and she just laid there I said to Nola ldquo this one pleaserdquo and thats how we picked her out of her sisters I didnt check mouths or anything as that wasnt a major part to me as I wanted her for Michael and to be my next champion in obedience

We bought her home and she fitted in really well and Kirra and her we inseparable They are the best of friends and have never had a fight

She had her first show at 4 months and kicked some butt and every show she went in she either won or got 2nd so I thought wow I have a stunner here in the show ring so we kept showing her and she did very well She did especially well in the specialty rings with many in show awards and her recent winning RBCC amp Best State Bred In Show at our SBTCQ 2010 under Mrs Griet Coetzer ( Zeracious SBT ) She loves to show and especially loves it when kids show her in junior handlers She makes a very good junior handler dog and has qualified quite a few kids for the finals in handlers

She gained her Australian Championship title at 2 frac12 yrs of age and thoroughly enjoyed it and I had a ball showing and still show her on occasions now

We started her obedience career at the age of 12 months She loved doing it and was always eager to please me and hated doing anything wrong so I had to encourage her when she wasnt sure just to let her no its ok to do somethings wrong She didnt think so though In her mind she had to do everything right the first time so we started training and back when she started they never had the new title CCD title available so we went straight into Novice (CD) It is all off lead and she didnt mind it much but had to keep reminding her she had to stay beside me and not about half metre away She didnt take long to train for the CD so off we went to her first Novice sweepstakes You have to get a sweepstakes of 150 to qualify first before you can compete in CD

( Novice ) She was just over a yr old and gained her first sweepstakes pass of 182200 and 1st place on the 22505 I was very pleased with her and thought I had something special in the obedience ring So we kept training for CD and getting ready for her first trial on 4605 where she scored 188200 and 1st place and this was her 1st pass for her CD title We then didnt train much as I found out I couldnt with her as she just hated being trained She would rather just get out there and do it She was very smart and only needed minimal training which many people didnt like because they had to train train and train there dogs but with Cassie just maybe 1 day a week was all she needed She then went onto gain her next pass in CD on the 2705 with a score of 187200 and yet another 1st place I then went onto to get her CD title 2 weeks later with an awesome score of 192200 and 1st place again So that was her CD title and looked good on her paperwork to show she had brains as

well as beauty I was training her for CDX while competing in CD so she was just about ready to trial in CDX ( Companion Dog Excellence ) Just had to get the out of sight stays down pat which she didnt have a problem with at all

She loved the jumps and the dumbbell but did everything at a nice pace not a psycho pass She was very calm when doing what she had to do but if she did something wrong and I corrected her by saying ldquonordquo she would just fall apart so then I new she was a soft dog to train so we went about training differently We introduced a tennis ball

Well that was a BAD mistake She is a ball freak so it made it easier for her after she had done something right I would throw the ball and that was her reward She loved the food as reward but preferred the ball I think and then she excelled in the training for her CDX title I then entered her in her first CDX trial on the 30705 and she had a ball gaining 176200 with a 3rd place I new she wasnt really ready but thought what the hell only way to learn is to put her in the trial so we did and was pleased she gained her 1st pass

How Cassie became an Australian Obedience Champion

AOC AUST CH BAJED MISS BLACKBERRY AD

SIRE CHERABAH THDIVIL NBLACK DAM BAJED MISS PLUM - BORN 3RD

MAY 2004

Continued on page 10

We were still showing her as well and we dont do trials every weekend as we wanted to get her Championship title

so then we did some shows then thought buggar it will enter her in obedience again and on the 151005 and she gained her 2nd pass in CDX

with a score of 174200 Wasnt a great score for her but was pleased as she was still learning the exercises and was

still very young I then though 1 more pass to go for her CDX title so I put her in a trial only a week later and she

gained her CDX title with a score of 178200 and with a 2nd place This was a great achievement for one so young and just only completing her CD title I

entered her in a couple more CDX trials and she scored an awesome score of 187200 and 1st place This was to be

her last CDX trial as she was then shown and she started her UD ( Utility Dog) title training

Boy what a challenge UD is to train a dog There is a lot more things involved in UD and takes a while to train a dog

Usually some dogs take over a year just to train for all the exercises but Cassie wow she was awesome I think it took her about 5 or 6 months to train for

every exercise

It was a challenge as she had to find just one article ( metal leather and wood)

amongst 12 other articles of the metal wood and leather Was a challenge to teach her just to scent for

the one I touched and she wasnt sure what I wanted her to do so I had to sew all the 12 articles onto a white sheet so she couldnt just pick up

anyone

So I put the article I touched onto the sheet with the sewed ones on it and

hoping this will teach her to only get the one with my scent on it as the others should couldnt get as they were

sewed down I sent her out to find the

one I touched and it took her a while not to pick up the sewed down ones and she finally found the loose one I

had touched So we did this with all the articles and this would have had to be the hardest one to teach any dog because they dont like the metal on

their teeth

ldquoBoy what a challenge UD is to train a dogrdquo

motoxgrl83yahoocomwwwlbellestaffordscom

Continued from page 8

Continued on page 13

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtml dnatestingahtorguk

wwwcornerstonesta f fords net

wwwstaffierescuescotlandcouk

staffcharmgmailcom

When we were doing this exercise I kept the 3 articles the

same all the time so it had my scent on them and was easier

for her to find them and no what she had to do and that she

had to sniff them out to find the right one When she started

using her nose I took all the cotton off the sewed ones and

they were all loose Now the time had come to see if she

could really do it and find the one I touched amongst all the

other loose ones I put the one I touched on the sheet and

sent her to ldquofindrdquo She went out and to my amazement she

found the right one so I knew the method had worked She

did all 3 good so now was to train for the box and jumps

She loved this one and didnt take long before she learnt that

as well I then taught her to find the ldquoseek backrdquo Its a piece

of leather dropped by the judge This was kind of easy for

Cassie to learn and I found this the easiest one to teach her

After that I had to teach her the stand drop and come so I

was speaking and doing the signals at same time Then I cut

out the speaking and she new what the signals meant

Then came the food refusal I never thought a Stafford could

refuse food She learnt very quickly not to touch the food

So she had concurred the whole of the UD exercises and I

thought might as well enter her in a trail Nothing to loose

and will give her a bit of practise in a trial situation Lets say

in her 1st trial we got a couple of 0s She just wasnt sure on

what she was meant to be doing as it was a different place

and not the back yard So we kept entering her in UD as well

as showing her

On the 16208 she gained her 1st pass with an awesome

score of 188200 and a 1st place This was an awesome score

being in UD as I was told I was just going for a score of

170200 which is the qualifying score for a pass in UD So I

was pretty stoked with her We then started to have trouble

with her eating the food in ldquofood refusal and she was

loosing out on a pass So we kept going with the food and

just did more training with her and she then got her 2nd

pass on the 19408 with another great score of 187200

with a 2nd place As we font trial every weekend it was good

that she new what she had to do even with little training I

found if I kept training her in UD she would just get bored

so we only trained a little everyday of 2 exercises and she

was ok with that

We then entered the Royal QLD Show for the 1st time in 08

where she went onto get her UD title with a score of

176200 and 3rd place This was a great achievement for her

as the grounds were awful Cows had been doing there

business where we were trialling so all the UD dogs did a

very good job This was the best feeling to get her title at

such a great show

Then the fun began going for her Australian Obedience

Champion (AOC) title

ldquoI never thought a Stafford could refuse food ldquo

Continued on next page

Continued from page 10

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

L2-HGA amp HC DATABASE PROJECT

THE STAFFORD KNOT ONLY ACCEPTS ADS FROM OWNERS AND BREEDERS OF DOGS WHO HAVE BEEN HEALTH TESTED THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS ARE L2-HGA amp HC TESTING WE PROVIDE INFORMATION ON WHERE TO GO TO HAVE THESE SIMPLE AND INEXPENSIVE TESTS PERFORMED

DOCUMENTATION IS REQUIRED TO BE SCANNED AND SENT IN TO THE EDITORS FOR APPROVAL FURTHER HEALTH TESTING (CARDIAC CERF PHPV HIPS ELBOWS PATELLA ETC) IS ALSO ENCOURAGED IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO BUYERS THAT THEY SEE THESE DOCUMENTS PRIOR TO PURCHASING THEIR NEW STAFFORD

IF ALL BREEDERS AND OWNERS WERE TO TEST STAFFORDS WOULD ALL BE BETTER OFF SIMPLY BY THE FACT THAT WE WOULD HAVE MORE INFORMATION REGARDING WHERE THIS BREED IS GOING AS FAR AS HEALTH MATTERS ARE CONCERNED

TO FURTHER THIS POINT IF ONLY CLEAR TESTED (L2-HGA amp HC) STAFFORDS ARE BRED FROM - THESE TWO GENETIC DISEASES COULD BE ERADICATED IN THREE GENERATIONS OF BREEDING THATrsquoS CERTAINLY SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

SOME ARGUE THAT THIS WOULD NARROW THE GENE POOL TOO MUCH AND IS NOT A NEEDED STEP TO IMPROVING THE FUTURE OF THIS BREED TO THOSE I SAY POSSIBLY HOWEVER - IS THAT CARRIER STUD DOG SO STRUCTURALLY SUPERIOR TO HIS CLEAR TESTED BROTHER THAT YOU WOULDNrsquoT CONSIDER USING THE BROTHER INSTEAD JUST SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

TSK IS COMPILING REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED DOCUMENTS OF ALL TESTED (CLEAR CARRIER AND AFFECTED) STAFFORDS FOR A FUTURE DATABASE PROJECT SO THAT DOCUMENTATION WILL BE ON HAND FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS IN THE US OUR REGISTRIES DO NOT DOCUMENT THESE TEST RESULTS AS THE KC DOES IN THE UK THEREFORE TOO MANY PEOPLE WHO OWN lsquoCLEAR BY PARENTAGErsquo STAFFORDS HAVE NO PROOF IN HAND SEVERAL GENERATIONS DOWN THE LINE IN TIME WE AT TSK HOPE THE DATABASE WILL HELP THOSE WHO WISH TO KNOW THE STATUS OF A PARTICULAR DOG OR LITTER

IF YOU HAVE A TESTED STAFFORD - PLEASE SEND ONE EMAIL TO HEALTHTHESTAFFORDKNOTCOM CONTAINING THE FULL REGISTERED NAME REGISTRATION NUMBER SIRE AND DAM REGISTERED NAMES AND SCANNED COPIES OF ALL HEALTH TESTING DONE ON YOUR DOG PLEASE ONLY SEND ONE EMAIL PER DOG IN TIME WE HOPE TO BUILD A NAME ONLY DATABASE WITH THIS INFORMATION THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING

I was after a bitch to start being serious about obedience I did do obedience with Kirra ( Aust Ch Hapustaff Black Magic CDX AD JD ) but she hated it so had to find another I then rang John and Nola ( Bajed ) to see if they had any bitch pups She said she had 3 bitches but she wasnt sure what they were keeping and that she would let me know when they have made there mind up so when they were 3 months I went up to Mount Larcom and had a look at the 3 girls Bearing in mind the pup was going to be owned by my son Michael so she had to be prepared to be pulled around and hugged and stuff So I picked them all up and the other 2 didnt like cuddles so I picked up Cassie and she just laid there I said to Nola ldquo this one pleaserdquo and thats how we picked her out of her sisters I didnt check mouths or anything as that wasnt a major part to me as I wanted her for Michael and to be my next champion in obedience

We bought her home and she fitted in really well and Kirra and her we inseparable They are the best of friends and have never had a fight

She had her first show at 4 months and kicked some butt and every show she went in she either won or got 2nd so I thought wow I have a stunner here in the show ring so we kept showing her and she did very well She did especially well in the specialty rings with many in show awards and her recent winning RBCC amp Best State Bred In Show at our SBTCQ 2010 under Mrs Griet Coetzer ( Zeracious SBT ) She loves to show and especially loves it when kids show her in junior handlers She makes a very good junior handler dog and has qualified quite a few kids for the finals in handlers

She gained her Australian Championship title at 2 frac12 yrs of age and thoroughly enjoyed it and I had a ball showing and still show her on occasions now

We started her obedience career at the age of 12 months She loved doing it and was always eager to please me and hated doing anything wrong so I had to encourage her when she wasnt sure just to let her no its ok to do somethings wrong She didnt think so though In her mind she had to do everything right the first time so we started training and back when she started they never had the new title CCD title available so we went straight into Novice (CD) It is all off lead and she didnt mind it much but had to keep reminding her she had to stay beside me and not about half metre away She didnt take long to train for the CD so off we went to her first Novice sweepstakes You have to get a sweepstakes of 150 to qualify first before you can compete in CD

( Novice ) She was just over a yr old and gained her first sweepstakes pass of 182200 and 1st place on the 22505 I was very pleased with her and thought I had something special in the obedience ring So we kept training for CD and getting ready for her first trial on 4605 where she scored 188200 and 1st place and this was her 1st pass for her CD title We then didnt train much as I found out I couldnt with her as she just hated being trained She would rather just get out there and do it She was very smart and only needed minimal training which many people didnt like because they had to train train and train there dogs but with Cassie just maybe 1 day a week was all she needed She then went onto gain her next pass in CD on the 2705 with a score of 187200 and yet another 1st place I then went onto to get her CD title 2 weeks later with an awesome score of 192200 and 1st place again So that was her CD title and looked good on her paperwork to show she had brains as

well as beauty I was training her for CDX while competing in CD so she was just about ready to trial in CDX ( Companion Dog Excellence ) Just had to get the out of sight stays down pat which she didnt have a problem with at all

She loved the jumps and the dumbbell but did everything at a nice pace not a psycho pass She was very calm when doing what she had to do but if she did something wrong and I corrected her by saying ldquonordquo she would just fall apart so then I new she was a soft dog to train so we went about training differently We introduced a tennis ball

Well that was a BAD mistake She is a ball freak so it made it easier for her after she had done something right I would throw the ball and that was her reward She loved the food as reward but preferred the ball I think and then she excelled in the training for her CDX title I then entered her in her first CDX trial on the 30705 and she had a ball gaining 176200 with a 3rd place I new she wasnt really ready but thought what the hell only way to learn is to put her in the trial so we did and was pleased she gained her 1st pass

How Cassie became an Australian Obedience Champion

AOC AUST CH BAJED MISS BLACKBERRY AD

SIRE CHERABAH THDIVIL NBLACK DAM BAJED MISS PLUM - BORN 3RD

MAY 2004

Continued on page 10

We were still showing her as well and we dont do trials every weekend as we wanted to get her Championship title

so then we did some shows then thought buggar it will enter her in obedience again and on the 151005 and she gained her 2nd pass in CDX

with a score of 174200 Wasnt a great score for her but was pleased as she was still learning the exercises and was

still very young I then though 1 more pass to go for her CDX title so I put her in a trial only a week later and she

gained her CDX title with a score of 178200 and with a 2nd place This was a great achievement for one so young and just only completing her CD title I

entered her in a couple more CDX trials and she scored an awesome score of 187200 and 1st place This was to be

her last CDX trial as she was then shown and she started her UD ( Utility Dog) title training

Boy what a challenge UD is to train a dog There is a lot more things involved in UD and takes a while to train a dog

Usually some dogs take over a year just to train for all the exercises but Cassie wow she was awesome I think it took her about 5 or 6 months to train for

every exercise

It was a challenge as she had to find just one article ( metal leather and wood)

amongst 12 other articles of the metal wood and leather Was a challenge to teach her just to scent for

the one I touched and she wasnt sure what I wanted her to do so I had to sew all the 12 articles onto a white sheet so she couldnt just pick up

anyone

So I put the article I touched onto the sheet with the sewed ones on it and

hoping this will teach her to only get the one with my scent on it as the others should couldnt get as they were

sewed down I sent her out to find the

one I touched and it took her a while not to pick up the sewed down ones and she finally found the loose one I

had touched So we did this with all the articles and this would have had to be the hardest one to teach any dog because they dont like the metal on

their teeth

ldquoBoy what a challenge UD is to train a dogrdquo

motoxgrl83yahoocomwwwlbellestaffordscom

Continued from page 8

Continued on page 13

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtml dnatestingahtorguk

wwwcornerstonesta f fords net

wwwstaffierescuescotlandcouk

staffcharmgmailcom

When we were doing this exercise I kept the 3 articles the

same all the time so it had my scent on them and was easier

for her to find them and no what she had to do and that she

had to sniff them out to find the right one When she started

using her nose I took all the cotton off the sewed ones and

they were all loose Now the time had come to see if she

could really do it and find the one I touched amongst all the

other loose ones I put the one I touched on the sheet and

sent her to ldquofindrdquo She went out and to my amazement she

found the right one so I knew the method had worked She

did all 3 good so now was to train for the box and jumps

She loved this one and didnt take long before she learnt that

as well I then taught her to find the ldquoseek backrdquo Its a piece

of leather dropped by the judge This was kind of easy for

Cassie to learn and I found this the easiest one to teach her

After that I had to teach her the stand drop and come so I

was speaking and doing the signals at same time Then I cut

out the speaking and she new what the signals meant

Then came the food refusal I never thought a Stafford could

refuse food She learnt very quickly not to touch the food

So she had concurred the whole of the UD exercises and I

thought might as well enter her in a trail Nothing to loose

and will give her a bit of practise in a trial situation Lets say

in her 1st trial we got a couple of 0s She just wasnt sure on

what she was meant to be doing as it was a different place

and not the back yard So we kept entering her in UD as well

as showing her

On the 16208 she gained her 1st pass with an awesome

score of 188200 and a 1st place This was an awesome score

being in UD as I was told I was just going for a score of

170200 which is the qualifying score for a pass in UD So I

was pretty stoked with her We then started to have trouble

with her eating the food in ldquofood refusal and she was

loosing out on a pass So we kept going with the food and

just did more training with her and she then got her 2nd

pass on the 19408 with another great score of 187200

with a 2nd place As we font trial every weekend it was good

that she new what she had to do even with little training I

found if I kept training her in UD she would just get bored

so we only trained a little everyday of 2 exercises and she

was ok with that

We then entered the Royal QLD Show for the 1st time in 08

where she went onto get her UD title with a score of

176200 and 3rd place This was a great achievement for her

as the grounds were awful Cows had been doing there

business where we were trialling so all the UD dogs did a

very good job This was the best feeling to get her title at

such a great show

Then the fun began going for her Australian Obedience

Champion (AOC) title

ldquoI never thought a Stafford could refuse food ldquo

Continued on next page

Continued from page 10

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

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My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

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httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

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httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

I was after a bitch to start being serious about obedience I did do obedience with Kirra ( Aust Ch Hapustaff Black Magic CDX AD JD ) but she hated it so had to find another I then rang John and Nola ( Bajed ) to see if they had any bitch pups She said she had 3 bitches but she wasnt sure what they were keeping and that she would let me know when they have made there mind up so when they were 3 months I went up to Mount Larcom and had a look at the 3 girls Bearing in mind the pup was going to be owned by my son Michael so she had to be prepared to be pulled around and hugged and stuff So I picked them all up and the other 2 didnt like cuddles so I picked up Cassie and she just laid there I said to Nola ldquo this one pleaserdquo and thats how we picked her out of her sisters I didnt check mouths or anything as that wasnt a major part to me as I wanted her for Michael and to be my next champion in obedience

We bought her home and she fitted in really well and Kirra and her we inseparable They are the best of friends and have never had a fight

She had her first show at 4 months and kicked some butt and every show she went in she either won or got 2nd so I thought wow I have a stunner here in the show ring so we kept showing her and she did very well She did especially well in the specialty rings with many in show awards and her recent winning RBCC amp Best State Bred In Show at our SBTCQ 2010 under Mrs Griet Coetzer ( Zeracious SBT ) She loves to show and especially loves it when kids show her in junior handlers She makes a very good junior handler dog and has qualified quite a few kids for the finals in handlers

She gained her Australian Championship title at 2 frac12 yrs of age and thoroughly enjoyed it and I had a ball showing and still show her on occasions now

We started her obedience career at the age of 12 months She loved doing it and was always eager to please me and hated doing anything wrong so I had to encourage her when she wasnt sure just to let her no its ok to do somethings wrong She didnt think so though In her mind she had to do everything right the first time so we started training and back when she started they never had the new title CCD title available so we went straight into Novice (CD) It is all off lead and she didnt mind it much but had to keep reminding her she had to stay beside me and not about half metre away She didnt take long to train for the CD so off we went to her first Novice sweepstakes You have to get a sweepstakes of 150 to qualify first before you can compete in CD

( Novice ) She was just over a yr old and gained her first sweepstakes pass of 182200 and 1st place on the 22505 I was very pleased with her and thought I had something special in the obedience ring So we kept training for CD and getting ready for her first trial on 4605 where she scored 188200 and 1st place and this was her 1st pass for her CD title We then didnt train much as I found out I couldnt with her as she just hated being trained She would rather just get out there and do it She was very smart and only needed minimal training which many people didnt like because they had to train train and train there dogs but with Cassie just maybe 1 day a week was all she needed She then went onto gain her next pass in CD on the 2705 with a score of 187200 and yet another 1st place I then went onto to get her CD title 2 weeks later with an awesome score of 192200 and 1st place again So that was her CD title and looked good on her paperwork to show she had brains as

well as beauty I was training her for CDX while competing in CD so she was just about ready to trial in CDX ( Companion Dog Excellence ) Just had to get the out of sight stays down pat which she didnt have a problem with at all

She loved the jumps and the dumbbell but did everything at a nice pace not a psycho pass She was very calm when doing what she had to do but if she did something wrong and I corrected her by saying ldquonordquo she would just fall apart so then I new she was a soft dog to train so we went about training differently We introduced a tennis ball

Well that was a BAD mistake She is a ball freak so it made it easier for her after she had done something right I would throw the ball and that was her reward She loved the food as reward but preferred the ball I think and then she excelled in the training for her CDX title I then entered her in her first CDX trial on the 30705 and she had a ball gaining 176200 with a 3rd place I new she wasnt really ready but thought what the hell only way to learn is to put her in the trial so we did and was pleased she gained her 1st pass

How Cassie became an Australian Obedience Champion

AOC AUST CH BAJED MISS BLACKBERRY AD

SIRE CHERABAH THDIVIL NBLACK DAM BAJED MISS PLUM - BORN 3RD

MAY 2004

Continued on page 10

We were still showing her as well and we dont do trials every weekend as we wanted to get her Championship title

so then we did some shows then thought buggar it will enter her in obedience again and on the 151005 and she gained her 2nd pass in CDX

with a score of 174200 Wasnt a great score for her but was pleased as she was still learning the exercises and was

still very young I then though 1 more pass to go for her CDX title so I put her in a trial only a week later and she

gained her CDX title with a score of 178200 and with a 2nd place This was a great achievement for one so young and just only completing her CD title I

entered her in a couple more CDX trials and she scored an awesome score of 187200 and 1st place This was to be

her last CDX trial as she was then shown and she started her UD ( Utility Dog) title training

Boy what a challenge UD is to train a dog There is a lot more things involved in UD and takes a while to train a dog

Usually some dogs take over a year just to train for all the exercises but Cassie wow she was awesome I think it took her about 5 or 6 months to train for

every exercise

It was a challenge as she had to find just one article ( metal leather and wood)

amongst 12 other articles of the metal wood and leather Was a challenge to teach her just to scent for

the one I touched and she wasnt sure what I wanted her to do so I had to sew all the 12 articles onto a white sheet so she couldnt just pick up

anyone

So I put the article I touched onto the sheet with the sewed ones on it and

hoping this will teach her to only get the one with my scent on it as the others should couldnt get as they were

sewed down I sent her out to find the

one I touched and it took her a while not to pick up the sewed down ones and she finally found the loose one I

had touched So we did this with all the articles and this would have had to be the hardest one to teach any dog because they dont like the metal on

their teeth

ldquoBoy what a challenge UD is to train a dogrdquo

motoxgrl83yahoocomwwwlbellestaffordscom

Continued from page 8

Continued on page 13

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtml dnatestingahtorguk

wwwcornerstonesta f fords net

wwwstaffierescuescotlandcouk

staffcharmgmailcom

When we were doing this exercise I kept the 3 articles the

same all the time so it had my scent on them and was easier

for her to find them and no what she had to do and that she

had to sniff them out to find the right one When she started

using her nose I took all the cotton off the sewed ones and

they were all loose Now the time had come to see if she

could really do it and find the one I touched amongst all the

other loose ones I put the one I touched on the sheet and

sent her to ldquofindrdquo She went out and to my amazement she

found the right one so I knew the method had worked She

did all 3 good so now was to train for the box and jumps

She loved this one and didnt take long before she learnt that

as well I then taught her to find the ldquoseek backrdquo Its a piece

of leather dropped by the judge This was kind of easy for

Cassie to learn and I found this the easiest one to teach her

After that I had to teach her the stand drop and come so I

was speaking and doing the signals at same time Then I cut

out the speaking and she new what the signals meant

Then came the food refusal I never thought a Stafford could

refuse food She learnt very quickly not to touch the food

So she had concurred the whole of the UD exercises and I

thought might as well enter her in a trail Nothing to loose

and will give her a bit of practise in a trial situation Lets say

in her 1st trial we got a couple of 0s She just wasnt sure on

what she was meant to be doing as it was a different place

and not the back yard So we kept entering her in UD as well

as showing her

On the 16208 she gained her 1st pass with an awesome

score of 188200 and a 1st place This was an awesome score

being in UD as I was told I was just going for a score of

170200 which is the qualifying score for a pass in UD So I

was pretty stoked with her We then started to have trouble

with her eating the food in ldquofood refusal and she was

loosing out on a pass So we kept going with the food and

just did more training with her and she then got her 2nd

pass on the 19408 with another great score of 187200

with a 2nd place As we font trial every weekend it was good

that she new what she had to do even with little training I

found if I kept training her in UD she would just get bored

so we only trained a little everyday of 2 exercises and she

was ok with that

We then entered the Royal QLD Show for the 1st time in 08

where she went onto get her UD title with a score of

176200 and 3rd place This was a great achievement for her

as the grounds were awful Cows had been doing there

business where we were trialling so all the UD dogs did a

very good job This was the best feeling to get her title at

such a great show

Then the fun began going for her Australian Obedience

Champion (AOC) title

ldquoI never thought a Stafford could refuse food ldquo

Continued on next page

Continued from page 10

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

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The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

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httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

We were still showing her as well and we dont do trials every weekend as we wanted to get her Championship title

so then we did some shows then thought buggar it will enter her in obedience again and on the 151005 and she gained her 2nd pass in CDX

with a score of 174200 Wasnt a great score for her but was pleased as she was still learning the exercises and was

still very young I then though 1 more pass to go for her CDX title so I put her in a trial only a week later and she

gained her CDX title with a score of 178200 and with a 2nd place This was a great achievement for one so young and just only completing her CD title I

entered her in a couple more CDX trials and she scored an awesome score of 187200 and 1st place This was to be

her last CDX trial as she was then shown and she started her UD ( Utility Dog) title training

Boy what a challenge UD is to train a dog There is a lot more things involved in UD and takes a while to train a dog

Usually some dogs take over a year just to train for all the exercises but Cassie wow she was awesome I think it took her about 5 or 6 months to train for

every exercise

It was a challenge as she had to find just one article ( metal leather and wood)

amongst 12 other articles of the metal wood and leather Was a challenge to teach her just to scent for

the one I touched and she wasnt sure what I wanted her to do so I had to sew all the 12 articles onto a white sheet so she couldnt just pick up

anyone

So I put the article I touched onto the sheet with the sewed ones on it and

hoping this will teach her to only get the one with my scent on it as the others should couldnt get as they were

sewed down I sent her out to find the

one I touched and it took her a while not to pick up the sewed down ones and she finally found the loose one I

had touched So we did this with all the articles and this would have had to be the hardest one to teach any dog because they dont like the metal on

their teeth

ldquoBoy what a challenge UD is to train a dogrdquo

motoxgrl83yahoocomwwwlbellestaffordscom

Continued from page 8

Continued on page 13

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtml dnatestingahtorguk

wwwcornerstonesta f fords net

wwwstaffierescuescotlandcouk

staffcharmgmailcom

When we were doing this exercise I kept the 3 articles the

same all the time so it had my scent on them and was easier

for her to find them and no what she had to do and that she

had to sniff them out to find the right one When she started

using her nose I took all the cotton off the sewed ones and

they were all loose Now the time had come to see if she

could really do it and find the one I touched amongst all the

other loose ones I put the one I touched on the sheet and

sent her to ldquofindrdquo She went out and to my amazement she

found the right one so I knew the method had worked She

did all 3 good so now was to train for the box and jumps

She loved this one and didnt take long before she learnt that

as well I then taught her to find the ldquoseek backrdquo Its a piece

of leather dropped by the judge This was kind of easy for

Cassie to learn and I found this the easiest one to teach her

After that I had to teach her the stand drop and come so I

was speaking and doing the signals at same time Then I cut

out the speaking and she new what the signals meant

Then came the food refusal I never thought a Stafford could

refuse food She learnt very quickly not to touch the food

So she had concurred the whole of the UD exercises and I

thought might as well enter her in a trail Nothing to loose

and will give her a bit of practise in a trial situation Lets say

in her 1st trial we got a couple of 0s She just wasnt sure on

what she was meant to be doing as it was a different place

and not the back yard So we kept entering her in UD as well

as showing her

On the 16208 she gained her 1st pass with an awesome

score of 188200 and a 1st place This was an awesome score

being in UD as I was told I was just going for a score of

170200 which is the qualifying score for a pass in UD So I

was pretty stoked with her We then started to have trouble

with her eating the food in ldquofood refusal and she was

loosing out on a pass So we kept going with the food and

just did more training with her and she then got her 2nd

pass on the 19408 with another great score of 187200

with a 2nd place As we font trial every weekend it was good

that she new what she had to do even with little training I

found if I kept training her in UD she would just get bored

so we only trained a little everyday of 2 exercises and she

was ok with that

We then entered the Royal QLD Show for the 1st time in 08

where she went onto get her UD title with a score of

176200 and 3rd place This was a great achievement for her

as the grounds were awful Cows had been doing there

business where we were trialling so all the UD dogs did a

very good job This was the best feeling to get her title at

such a great show

Then the fun began going for her Australian Obedience

Champion (AOC) title

ldquoI never thought a Stafford could refuse food ldquo

Continued on next page

Continued from page 10

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtml dnatestingahtorguk

wwwcornerstonesta f fords net

wwwstaffierescuescotlandcouk

staffcharmgmailcom

When we were doing this exercise I kept the 3 articles the

same all the time so it had my scent on them and was easier

for her to find them and no what she had to do and that she

had to sniff them out to find the right one When she started

using her nose I took all the cotton off the sewed ones and

they were all loose Now the time had come to see if she

could really do it and find the one I touched amongst all the

other loose ones I put the one I touched on the sheet and

sent her to ldquofindrdquo She went out and to my amazement she

found the right one so I knew the method had worked She

did all 3 good so now was to train for the box and jumps

She loved this one and didnt take long before she learnt that

as well I then taught her to find the ldquoseek backrdquo Its a piece

of leather dropped by the judge This was kind of easy for

Cassie to learn and I found this the easiest one to teach her

After that I had to teach her the stand drop and come so I

was speaking and doing the signals at same time Then I cut

out the speaking and she new what the signals meant

Then came the food refusal I never thought a Stafford could

refuse food She learnt very quickly not to touch the food

So she had concurred the whole of the UD exercises and I

thought might as well enter her in a trail Nothing to loose

and will give her a bit of practise in a trial situation Lets say

in her 1st trial we got a couple of 0s She just wasnt sure on

what she was meant to be doing as it was a different place

and not the back yard So we kept entering her in UD as well

as showing her

On the 16208 she gained her 1st pass with an awesome

score of 188200 and a 1st place This was an awesome score

being in UD as I was told I was just going for a score of

170200 which is the qualifying score for a pass in UD So I

was pretty stoked with her We then started to have trouble

with her eating the food in ldquofood refusal and she was

loosing out on a pass So we kept going with the food and

just did more training with her and she then got her 2nd

pass on the 19408 with another great score of 187200

with a 2nd place As we font trial every weekend it was good

that she new what she had to do even with little training I

found if I kept training her in UD she would just get bored

so we only trained a little everyday of 2 exercises and she

was ok with that

We then entered the Royal QLD Show for the 1st time in 08

where she went onto get her UD title with a score of

176200 and 3rd place This was a great achievement for her

as the grounds were awful Cows had been doing there

business where we were trialling so all the UD dogs did a

very good job This was the best feeling to get her title at

such a great show

Then the fun began going for her Australian Obedience

Champion (AOC) title

ldquoI never thought a Stafford could refuse food ldquo

Continued on next page

Continued from page 10

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

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My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

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The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

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httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

wwwstaffierescuescotlandcouk

staffcharmgmailcom

When we were doing this exercise I kept the 3 articles the

same all the time so it had my scent on them and was easier

for her to find them and no what she had to do and that she

had to sniff them out to find the right one When she started

using her nose I took all the cotton off the sewed ones and

they were all loose Now the time had come to see if she

could really do it and find the one I touched amongst all the

other loose ones I put the one I touched on the sheet and

sent her to ldquofindrdquo She went out and to my amazement she

found the right one so I knew the method had worked She

did all 3 good so now was to train for the box and jumps

She loved this one and didnt take long before she learnt that

as well I then taught her to find the ldquoseek backrdquo Its a piece

of leather dropped by the judge This was kind of easy for

Cassie to learn and I found this the easiest one to teach her

After that I had to teach her the stand drop and come so I

was speaking and doing the signals at same time Then I cut

out the speaking and she new what the signals meant

Then came the food refusal I never thought a Stafford could

refuse food She learnt very quickly not to touch the food

So she had concurred the whole of the UD exercises and I

thought might as well enter her in a trail Nothing to loose

and will give her a bit of practise in a trial situation Lets say

in her 1st trial we got a couple of 0s She just wasnt sure on

what she was meant to be doing as it was a different place

and not the back yard So we kept entering her in UD as well

as showing her

On the 16208 she gained her 1st pass with an awesome

score of 188200 and a 1st place This was an awesome score

being in UD as I was told I was just going for a score of

170200 which is the qualifying score for a pass in UD So I

was pretty stoked with her We then started to have trouble

with her eating the food in ldquofood refusal and she was

loosing out on a pass So we kept going with the food and

just did more training with her and she then got her 2nd

pass on the 19408 with another great score of 187200

with a 2nd place As we font trial every weekend it was good

that she new what she had to do even with little training I

found if I kept training her in UD she would just get bored

so we only trained a little everyday of 2 exercises and she

was ok with that

We then entered the Royal QLD Show for the 1st time in 08

where she went onto get her UD title with a score of

176200 and 3rd place This was a great achievement for her

as the grounds were awful Cows had been doing there

business where we were trialling so all the UD dogs did a

very good job This was the best feeling to get her title at

such a great show

Then the fun began going for her Australian Obedience

Champion (AOC) title

ldquoI never thought a Stafford could refuse food ldquo

Continued on next page

Continued from page 10

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

When we were doing this exercise I kept the 3 articles the

same all the time so it had my scent on them and was easier

for her to find them and no what she had to do and that she

had to sniff them out to find the right one When she started

using her nose I took all the cotton off the sewed ones and

they were all loose Now the time had come to see if she

could really do it and find the one I touched amongst all the

other loose ones I put the one I touched on the sheet and

sent her to ldquofindrdquo She went out and to my amazement she

found the right one so I knew the method had worked She

did all 3 good so now was to train for the box and jumps

She loved this one and didnt take long before she learnt that

as well I then taught her to find the ldquoseek backrdquo Its a piece

of leather dropped by the judge This was kind of easy for

Cassie to learn and I found this the easiest one to teach her

After that I had to teach her the stand drop and come so I

was speaking and doing the signals at same time Then I cut

out the speaking and she new what the signals meant

Then came the food refusal I never thought a Stafford could

refuse food She learnt very quickly not to touch the food

So she had concurred the whole of the UD exercises and I

thought might as well enter her in a trail Nothing to loose

and will give her a bit of practise in a trial situation Lets say

in her 1st trial we got a couple of 0s She just wasnt sure on

what she was meant to be doing as it was a different place

and not the back yard So we kept entering her in UD as well

as showing her

On the 16208 she gained her 1st pass with an awesome

score of 188200 and a 1st place This was an awesome score

being in UD as I was told I was just going for a score of

170200 which is the qualifying score for a pass in UD So I

was pretty stoked with her We then started to have trouble

with her eating the food in ldquofood refusal and she was

loosing out on a pass So we kept going with the food and

just did more training with her and she then got her 2nd

pass on the 19408 with another great score of 187200

with a 2nd place As we font trial every weekend it was good

that she new what she had to do even with little training I

found if I kept training her in UD she would just get bored

so we only trained a little everyday of 2 exercises and she

was ok with that

We then entered the Royal QLD Show for the 1st time in 08

where she went onto get her UD title with a score of

176200 and 3rd place This was a great achievement for her

as the grounds were awful Cows had been doing there

business where we were trialling so all the UD dogs did a

very good job This was the best feeling to get her title at

such a great show

Then the fun began going for her Australian Obedience

Champion (AOC) title

ldquoI never thought a Stafford could refuse food ldquo

Continued on next page

Continued from page 10

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

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wwwstaffordwelfarecom

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rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

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My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

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wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

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Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

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A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Continued from page 13

We needed 5 more passes of 185 or more and Irsquom like that is going take awhile So our campaign started to get her OC We entered more trials and was close on some

occasions for an OC pass but she would either eat the food or sit in the stand for exam

So we did some showing to get her mind away form obedience and then went back back to it She then gained

her 1st pass towards her OC on the 4709 with a score of 186200 with a 2nd place Now then I new she could do it and entered her in the next weekend trial where she gained

another pass of 187200 with a 1st place So I was like awesome now we only need 3 more passes and she will be an AOC dog

Well then we became into trouble yes you guessed it the food again So we had to teach her the gloves She new the directions of where the gloves were as I had taught her the leathers for UDX so she had an idea of where I wanted her

to go She took to these easy so out with the food refusal and in with the gloves So the moment came when we did yet another trial with the gloves this time and she did

everything beautiful She scored 187200 and 1st place and her 3rd pass

Im now thinking mmmm maybe she will get her title She

was now trialling in Agility (AD) as well and she loved it Something to keep her mind active and a break from obedience She loved all the equipment involved and with 4 trials she gained her AD (Agility Dog) title Im started to

think there is nothing this girl can do So we started doing Jumpers (JD) too and she gained 1 pass in that as we havent entered anymore as we were trying hard to get her AOC

title before she was due in season at the end of November

So we went back to trials trying hard to get her last 2 passes We came so close and were running out of trials We

did little training with her as by now she new all the exercises so I would just put her into trials and hope for the best We had 2 trials in a weekend with only 4 trials left after these 2 I thought just get one pass and we have a few more

to get the rest So she went awesome and she got her 4th pass with a score of 186200 and 2nd place Im now thinking we are so close to gaining this and we have a few trails left

so that cool with me

Then she pulls out another great pass of 187200 and a 2nd place and gains the title of Australian Obedience

Champion This was the best feeling and all the training and heartache was well worth the effort

This title makes her the 1st Stafford

and Stafford bitch in Queensland (QLD)

to gain this title

I knew she could do it but not as quick as she has and she has achieved a lot in her show and obedience career and could not have asked anything else of her Mind you she has been a mother twice so theres time out of training and just

goes to show you she did it in limited training and time

She is a one in a million dog and is always ready to please

She was easy to train and always wanting to please

Cant thank John amp Nola ( Bajed ) enough for allowing Cassie

to become a major part of our lives and Michaels girl and the foundation of Magicmine Staffords

Her son Tonka ( Magicmine A Pot Of Black CCD CDX ) and

her daughter Ice ( Magicmine Black Ice ) have both taken after there mother in the obedience and both are excelling as well

Paula Hill

httpwwwmagicminestaffordscom

magicminehotmailcom

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

nozachuberygooglemailcom

wwwcafepresscomthankdogwwwzazzlecomthankdog

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

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The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

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httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

wwwstaffordwelfarecom

daydreamsbtscoxnet

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

rescuesbtcacom

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic

disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine plasma and

cerebrospinal fluid

L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system with clinical

signs usually apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear later) Symptoms include

epileptic seizures wobbly gait tremors muscle stiffness

as a result of exercise or excitement and altered behaviour

The mutation or change to the structure of the gene

probably occurred spontaneously in a single dog but once

in the population has been inherited from generation to generation like any other gene The disorder shows an

autosomal recessive mode of inheritance two copies of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have

to be present for a dog to be affected by the disease

Individuals with one copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called carriers - show no

symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their offspring When two apparently healthy carriers are

crossed 25 (on average) of the offspring will be affected

by the disease 25 will be clear and the remaining 50 will themselves be carriers

The mutation responsible for the disease has been

identified at the Animal Health Trust Using the

information from this research they have developed a DNA test for the disease This test not only diagnoses

dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those dogs which are carriers displaying no symptoms of the

disease but able to produce affected pups Carriers could

not be detected by the tests previously available which involved either a blood or urine test detecting elevated

levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance imaging Under most circumstances there will be a much

greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population It is important to eliminate such carriers from

a breeding population since they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at

any time

The test is available now and information on submitting

samples is given below

Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as

belonging to one of three categories

CLEAR the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and

will neither develop L-2-HGA nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring

CARRIER the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene that causes L-2-HGA It will

not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the L-2-HGA gene

to 50 (on average) of its offspring

AFFECTED the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with L-2-HGA It will develop

L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime assuming it

lives to an appropriate age

Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs On average 50

of such a litter will be clear and 50 carriers there can be

no affected produced from such a mating Pups which will be used for breeding must be DNA tested to determine

whether they are clear or carrier

Courtesy AHT - Please see our ad on page 10 in this issue

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is a veterinary charity

dedicated to improving the health and welfare of horses dogs

amp cats Despite popular belief disease and injury are the most

common threats to animal welfare and we exist to reduce and

prevent any unnecessary suffering

What Is L2-HGA

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

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httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

wwwca fepress comthankdog

easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

joscruffydogscouk

OR ProSBTHealthaolcom

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

My13 name13 is13 Daphne13 and13 I13 am13 a13 Staffordshire13 Bull13 Terrier13 and13 this13 is13 my13 wish13 for13 all13 Breeders13 and13 dog13 owners13 for13 the13 New13 year

This13 last13 year13 I13 have13 had13 to13 share13 my13 space13 with13 several13 visitors13 who13 had13 been13 unfortunate13 and13 fallen13 on13 hard13 times13 13 13 Even13 though13 sometimes13 I13 am13 not13 so13 friendly13 I13 did13 my13 best13 to13 share13 13 I13 was13 also13 required13 to13 be13 present13 at13 several13 meetings13 where13 townspeople13 were13 arguing13 about13 Breed13 SpeciAic13 Legislation13 and13 mandatory13 spay13 and13 neuter13 laws13 13

I13 have13 learned13 thru13 all13 this13 that13 being13 Responsible13 is13 more13 than13 just13 puppy13 contracts13 and13 food13 and13 water13 and13 health13 care13 13 13 Maybe13 being13 a13 responsible13 dog13 owner13 or13 breeder13 is13 also13 about13 helping13 our13 communities13 to13 educate13 the13 uneducated13 aide13 those13 who13 cannot13 afford13 and13 assist13 the13 city13 leaders13 in13 deAining13 stiffer13 penalties13 for13 irresponsible13 pet13 owners

The13 dog13 world13 needs13 to13 become13 part13 of13 the13 solution13 13 We13 all13 need13 to13 leave13 our13 comfy13 beds13 and13 Aind13 out13 from13 our13 local13 shelters13 and13 rescue13 groups13 how13 we13 can13 help13 to13 educate13 our13 communities13 and13 solve13 problems13 If13 your13 city13 does13 not13 have13 local13 rescue13 groups13 or13 does13 not13 appear13 to13 have13 a13 problem

It13 wonrsquot13 change13 if13 we13 donrsquot13 change

13 In13 closing13 I13 would13 like13 to13 wish13 everyone13 a13 Happy13 New13 Year13 and13 hope13 that13 everyone13 has13 food13 in13 their13 bowls13 toys13 to13 play13 with13 and13 a13 super13 comfy13 bed13 at13 night13 13 13 Oh13 and13 a13 very13 special13 thank13 you13 to13 all13 the13 judges13 in13 Long13 Beach13 at13 the13 Eukanaba13 Week13 in13 December13 Mr13 Lawrence13 E13 Stanbridge13 Mr13 Peter13 J13 Green13 Mrs13 Roberta13 L13 Campbell13 and13 Eukanaba13 201013 Judge13 Mrs13 Lynne13 Myall13 for13 awarding13 me13 Best13 Opposite13 Sex13 at13 all13 413 shows

consider13 having13 a13 Responsible13 Dog13 Ownership13 booth13 at13 local13 events13 13 We13 need13 to13 lead13 and13 encourage13 everyone13 to13 do13 the13 right13 thing13 13 13 If13 the13 Dog13 World13 does13 not13 do13 it13 we13 will13 continue13 to13 Aight13 new13 legislation13 and13 this13 will13 affect13 the13 future13 of13 dogs13 everywhere13 13 13 13

Asia is a golden girl in every sense of the word She is sweet and quiet and kind She travels well and walks on the leash nicely It was mentioned that she is dog aggressive however she composed herself with dignity around my hoodlum dogs Sometimes the old ones are the best companions and Asia seems to be no exception We really hope there is a forever home for this worthy gal Please take a moment to look at Asias pictures and her videos Here are the links Asia on YouTube-Part I and Asia on YouTube-Part II

ASIA is available through SBTCA

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

wwwsbtcvorgau

httpforumbullbreedsonlinecom

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Teaching bite inhibition is the most important aspect of your puppys entire education

Certainly puppy biting behavior must eventually be eliminated We cannot have an adult dog playfully mauling family friends and strangers in the manner of a young puppy However it is essential that this be done gradually and progressively via a systematic two-step process first to inhibit the force of puppy bites and second to lessen the frequency of puppy mouthing

Ideally the two phases should be taught in sequence but with more active puppy biters you may wish to work on both stages at the same time In either case you must teach your puppy to bite or mouth gently before puppy biting behavior is eliminated altogether

Inhibiting the Force of Bites

The first step is to stop your puppy from hurting people to teach him to inhibit the force of his play-bites Physical punishments are certainly not called for But it is essential to let your puppy know that bites can hurt A simple loud high pitched Ouch is usually sufficient When the puppy backs off take a short time-

out to lick your wounds instruct your pup to come sit and lie down and then resume playing If your puppy does not respond to your yelp by easing up or backing off an effective technique is to stop all play turn leave the room and shut the door Allow the pup a minute or two time-out ndash he will eventually put together the association between his painful bite and the immediate departure of his favorite human playmate It is important to show that you still love your puppy only that his painful bites are objectionable Have your pup come and sit and then resume playing once more

It is much better for you to walk away from the pup than to physically restrain him or remove him to his confinement area at a time when he is biting too hard So make a habit of playing with your puppy in his long-term confinement area This technique is remarkably effective with hard-headed stubborn dogs since it is precisely the way puppies learn to inhibit the force of their bites when playing with each other If one puppy bites another too hard the bitee yelps and playing is postponed while he licks his wounds The biter soon learns that hard bites interrupt an otherwise enjoyable play session He learns to bite

more softly once play resumes

The next step is to eliminate bite pressure entirely even though the bites no longer hurt While your puppy is chewing his human chewtoy wait for a bite that is harder than the rest and respond as if it really hurt even though it didnt Ouchrdquo Your puppy begins to think Good Heavens These humans are soooooo sensitive Ill have to be really careful when mouthing their delicate skin And thats precisely what you want your pup to think that he needs to be extremely careful and gentle when playing with people

Your pup should learn not to hurt people well before he is three months old Ideally by the time he is 6 months old mdash before he develops strong jaws and adult canine teeth mdash he should no longer be exerting any pressure when mouthing

Teaching Bite Inhibition

Continued on page 24

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

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The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

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httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

infowavemakerstaffordscomwwwwavemakerstaffordscom

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Decreasing the Frequency

of Mouthing

Once your puppy has been taught to mouth gently it is time to reduce the frequency of mouthing Your pup must learn that mouthing is okay but he must stop when requested Why Because it is inconvenient to drink a cup of tea or to answer the telephone with forty pounds of wriggling dog dangling from your wrist Thats why

It is better to first teach Off using food as both a distraction and a reward The deal is this once I say Off if you dont touch the food treat in my hand for just one second Ill say Take it and you can have it Once your pup has mastered this simple task up the ante to two or three seconds of non-contact and then to five eight twelve twenty and so on Count out the seconds and praise the dog with each second Good dog one good dog two good dog three and so forth If the pup touches the treat before you are ready to give it simply start the count from zero again Your pup quickly learns that once you say Off he can not have the treat until he has not touched it for say eight seconds so the quickest way to get the treat is not to touch it for the first eight seconds In addition regular hand-feeding during this exercise encourages your pups soft mouth We use dehydrated liver or chicken

for this training Cut the food into tiny pea sized bits

Once your pup understands the Off request use food as a lure and a reward to teach it to let go when mouthing Say Off and show him some food as a lure to entice your pup to let go and sit Then praise the pup and give the food as a reward when he does so

The main point of this exercise is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing and so each time your puppy obediently ceases and desists resume playing once more Stop and start the session many times over Also since the puppy wants to mouth the best reward for stopping mouthing is to allow him to mouth again When you decide to stop the mouthing session altogether say Off and then offer your puppy a Kong stuffed with his favorite treat Frozen stuffed Kongs are even better as it lasts longer We also offer frozen marrow bones

By the time your pup is 4-6 months old he must have a mouth as soft and reliable as a fourteen-year-old working Labrador Retriever your puppy should never initiate mouthing unless requested he should never exert any pressure when mouthing and he should stop mouthing and calm down immediately upon request by any family member

Whether or not you allow your adult dog to mouth on request is up to you For most owners I recommend

that they teach their dog to discontinue mouthing people altogether by the time he is six to eight months old However it is essential to continue bite inhibition exercises Otherwise your dogs bite will begin to drift and become harder as he grows older

For owners who have good control over their dog there is no better way to maintain the dogs soft mouth than by regular play-fighting However to prevent your puppy from getting out of control and to fully realize the many benefits of play-fighting you must play by the rules and teach your dog to play by the rules

Play-fighting teaches your puppy to mouth only hands which are extremely sensitive to pressure but never clothing Shoelaces ties pant leg and hair have no nerves and cannot feel Therefore you cannot provide the necessary feedback when your pup begins to mouth too hard and too close to your skin The play-fighting game also teaches your dog that he must adhere to rules regarding his jaws regardless of how worked up he may be Basically play-fighting gives you the opportunity to practice controlling your puppy when he is excited It is important to establish such control in a structured setting before real-life situations occur

Adapted from the book

lsquoAFTER You Get Your Puppyrsquo

by Dr Ian Dunbar

ldquoThe main point is to practice stopping the pup from mouthing Continued from page 22

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

httpwwwangelrockdogscomrescue

httppetsgroupsyahoocomgroupSBTrescue

wwwsta f f iesonl ine org uk

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

dropdoggorgeoushotmailcoukwwwdropdoggorgeouscom

wwwshowdaysinfo

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

The risk of a Vaccine Administered Adverse Event (VAAE) increases when multiple vaccines are given simultaneously

Canine vaccinations play an important role in protecting dogs from contagious and lethal disease However they are not without cost Despite increased publicity in recent years about the adverse effects of vaccinations many people still assume annual vaccines for their dogs are necessary and many veterinarians continue to administer them The question is not whether to vaccinate but for which diseases when and how often

Dog vaccinations are a double edged sword Studies have shown that most canine vaccinations provide immunity from seven years to life if given when a dogs immune system is mature However vaccinations also have considerable potential for harm Dog owners should be informed of the benefits and risks in order to make appropriate decisions for their pets The seemingly obvious source for this information are veterinarians and vaccine manufacturers but a conflict of interest exists between them and the education of the public For what vaccine manufacturer wants to fund a study

that might find their product to be unnecessary andor harmful And it is certainly understandable if some veterinarians are reluctant to advise against annual vaccinations when those vaccinations represent a substantial portion of their annual revenue

The key to reducing vaccine reactions in dogs is to reduce the number and frequency of vaccinations given Before examining the potential unwanted consequences here is a brief look at vaccines and their effect on the canine immune system

What Is a VaccineA vaccine is one or more disease antigens that when injected into a dogs body causes his immune system to produce specialized proteins known as immunoglobulins or antibodies Antibodies fight infection and disease and neutralize the antigens by binding to them The cells that created the antibodies (a form of white blood cell) have a memory of the antigen so that when the antigen is encountered again the cells memory enables them to

rapidly produce more antibodies ie to mount immunity against that pathogen The most common dog vaccination is a combination cocktail called DHLPPC which includes pathogens for

bull Distemper

bull Adenovirus-2

bull Leptospirosis

bull Parainfluenza

bull Parvo

bull Coronavirus

all in a single injection Other vaccinations often given at the same time are

bull Rabies

bull Bordatella (Kennel Cough)

bull Lyme Disease

bull Giardia

There are two types of vaccines killed (inactive) and modified-live (MLV) A killed vaccine takes a virus or bacteria and renders it unable to reproduce with heat or chemicals The immune system doesnt readily recognize dead antigens so the antigens are combined with substances called adjuvants An adjuvant slows the release of the antigen and lengthens the dogs exposure to it in what is known as the depot effect The immune response is improved and less antigen is required Oils aluminum salts and proteins are examples of adjuvants Killed vaccines contain preservatives such as thimerosal (which is 49 mercury) to kill germs that might have accidentally contaminated the vaccine

The Truth About Dog Vaccinations

This Chihuahua receives the same amount of vaccine as a Great Dane

Continued on page 29

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

httphammystaffwebscomsianjarrodaolcom

httpwwwpsbtcorg staffordtimespsbtcorg

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Adjuvants and preservatives share culpability for some of the adverse reactions dogs experience

MLVs are created from isolated bacteria and viruses that have been attenuated or weakened so as to not cause the disease They do reproduce in the dogs

cells and provoke immunity by mimicking infection with the virulent disease agent MLV products are

preserved by freeze drying or with small amounts of antibiotics They produce a stronger immune system

response with fewer doses than do killed vaccines and do not require the addition of adjuvants MLV vaccinations are thought to sometimes over

stimulate the immune system causing it to malfunction They are contraindicated for dogs with already

suppressed immune systems MLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease

Risks and BenefitsThe benefits are obvious The dog doesnt get the diseases for which he has been vaccinated and the dogs

owner has peace of mind and doesnt have to pay for expensive treatment when the dog becomes infected The

risks are harder to assess as unwanted side effects vary in type number and severity from dog to dog The likelihood of a dog having an adverse reaction

depends upon his sex age size health and genetic predisposition as well as the type and number of vaccines

administered

Potential Side Effects

A Vaccination Administration Adverse Event (VAAE) can be subtle or severe

Anaphylaxis characterized by the sudden onset of symptoms such as vomiting diarrhea seizures and shock is an immediate and life threatening

response to vaccines that some dogs experience The dog may experience cardiac and respiratory failure leading

to death unless immediate treatment is available Anaphylactic reactions most often occur with killed variations of

vaccines such as those for Rabies Leptospirosis and Coronavirus Less dramatic adverse reactions can include the following

bull localized pain and swelling at the injection sitebull fever

bull loss of appetitebull aggressionbull depression

bull skin allergiesDogs with seasonal allergies sometimes worsen after vaccination The distemper vaccine can cause encephalitis

(inflammation of the brain) Some dogs and more commonly cats have developed cancers on injection sites

Pregnant dogs vaccinated with MLV

products are at increased risk for abortion

Canine Auto-Immune DiseaseThe most pervasive side effects of vaccination cover a spectrum known collectively as auto-immune disease There are many different auto-immune disorders but they all share an immune system gone awry The dogs immune system begins to destroy his own cells as if they were the disease causing agent Some canine diseases thought to be either caused by contributed to or triggered by (in the case of genetic pre-disposition) canine vaccinations include

bull Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemiabull Addisons Diseasebull Inflammatory Bowel Diseasebull Lupusbull Rheumatoid Arthritisbull Thyroid Diseasebull Epilepsy

ldquoMLVs have the potential to revert to the virulent form of the disease ldquo

Delay puppy shots until the puppy is eight weeks old and longer when safe circumstances make it possible

Small white dogs are more susceptible to auto-immune disease and adverse reactions to vaccines

Continued on page 31

Continued from page 27

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

wwwmystaffycomau

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

A partial list of breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune disorders includes

bull American Cocker Spanielbull Akitabull Boxerbull Dachshundbull German Shepherdbull German Shorthaired Pointerbull Golden Retrieverbull Great Danebull Greyhoundbull Old English Sheepdogbull Shetland Sheepdogbull Shih Tzubull Vizslabull Weimaranerbull Standard Poodleas well as many white coated (particularly small) breeds or those with coat color dilution genetics such as merling (Collies Australian Shepherds) harlequin Great Danes blue and fawn Doberman Pinschers etc A dog may exhibit symptoms in one or multiple areasThe weakened immune system leaves the dog vulnerable especially when neither owner nor vet recognizes the real culprit and multiple vaccines continue to be administered Vaccinations are not the only culprit in canine auto immune disorders certain dog food preservatives environmental toxins and pesticides are also suspect

Limiting Risk Less is More

In 2002 a landmark report published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents (COBTA) stated in part the practice of revaccinating animals annually is largely based on historic precedent supported by minimal scientific data unnecessary stimulation of the immune system does not result in enhanced disease resistance and may expose animals to unnecessary risks It is clear that the one vaccination protocol fits all mentality of previous years must be reviewed and that the benefits of vaccination must be weighed against the potential risk for an individual dog and his circumstances It is important that dog owners not feel intimidated into giving more vaccines than they feel is wise The only vaccination mandated by law is the Rabies vaccine and even that is three years into a seven year (grass roots - consumer funded) study that hopefully will demonstrate seven year efficacy Dogs that spend time around other dogs that are boarded frequently or who attend dog shows and dog parks may need more careful monitoring than dogs that never leave home Regardless of circumstance the good news is that there are ways to minimize risk

Limit the number of vaccinations the dog

receives More is not necessarily better A study published in 2005 in the Journal of the AVA (American Veterinary Association) determined that the risk of

adverse side effects increased with the number of vaccines given simultaneously When a dog is vaccinated with multiple pathogens his immune system is forced to respond to them all The various pathogens compete for the immune response resulting in a lesser response over all Consider vaccinating only for the core (potentially fatal) diseases Distemper Parvo and Rabies and Adenovirus-2 Consider the non-core vaccines in light of a dogs individual risk There is no need to vaccinate for Lyme disease unless the dog lives in or is traveling to an area where Lyme is prevalent AND the dogs habitat or lifestyle puts him at risk A tick carrying Lyme Disease generally must be attached to the host for 24 hours to communicate the disease so rapid habitual detection and removal of ticks negates the need for the vaccine As much as possible avoid multiple disease cocktail vaccinations

Limit the frequency of vaccinations with both puppies and adults A puppy is typically given a series of puppy shots that begins as early as six weeks of age and concludes around sixteen weeks followed by a booster at around one year These vaccinations are wasted when the puppy is still protected by the immunity he received from his mother Maternal antibody interference is the most common cause of vaccine failure Exactly when the immunity conferred by the mother wears off varies between puppies but it is known to last longer than previously thought

ldquoLimit the number of vaccinations the dog receivesrdquoContinued from page 29

One key to reducing adverse reactions is to reduce the overall number of vaccinations given

Continued on next page

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Up to twenty percent of 18 week old puppies have enough maternal antibodies present to interfere with successful Parvo immunization One option is to delay vaccinating entirely until the puppy is over 22 weeks of age Delayed vaccination undoubtedly reduces the risk of VAAEs but requires vigilance on the part of the puppys owner to be aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choices when exposing his puppy The time period prior to such delayed vaccination overlaps one critical to socialization so it is important the puppy be socialized only in places where the other dogs are known to have been immunized such as friends homes and not public places such as Pet Smart where the status of dogs encountered is unknown Certainly the beginning of a vaccination series should wait until the puppy is at least eight weeks old and longer when possible Allow a minimum of three weeks between vaccinations

Have adult dogs titered and do not vaccinate when titers are adequate A titer (pronounced TIGHT-ER) test measures the antibodies in a dogs blood and indicates if his immune system was mounting immunity at the time his blood was drawn Titer tests are a bit problematic in their interpretation The dog may show no antibodies to a particular pathogen and yet his cells be fully capable of producing them when needed The lack of antibodies doesnt always indicate a lack of protection but rather that the memory of the pathogen had not been provoked at the time of the test One way around this frustration is to deliberately expose the dog to the vaccine a week or ten days prior to his titer test This is done by purchasing and mixing a vaccination of the type he is to be titered for but instead of injecting it into the dog put it on a cotton ball or tissue and allow the dog to sniff it or perhaps even rub a bit of it on his nose This increases the likelihood of the titer test results accuracy

Ongoing Research

Two researchers are at the forefront of the field of canine immunology Ronald D Schultz PhD DVM and W Jean Dodds DVM They are currently working together on a Rabies Challenge study that is underway at the University of Wisconsins School of Veterinary Medicine where Dr Schultz is a professor and the current chair of the Department of Pathobiological Sciences Dr Schultz has been studying the efficacy of vaccines and immunity since the 1970s Regarding the practice of annual vaccination he says we have found that annual revaccination with the vaccines that provide long term immunity provides no demonstrable benefit and may increase the risk for adverse reactions Dr Dodds an expert on Canine Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and founder of the first private non-profit blood bank for animals Hemopet is equally recognized as an authority on canine vaccines and immunology Dr Dodds limited vaccination protocol is widely followed by purebred dog breeders concerned about the incidence of adverse reaction Regarding titering at the one year period she says If the titers are sufficient then a booster isnt needed

Other Considerations

One concern for small dog owners in particular is the amount of vaccine given A Chihuahua is vaccinated with the same amount of pathogen as a Great Dane Some researchers maintain that since at the cellular level there are the same number of receptor sites in every dog that there is no reason to adjust dosages for body size However studies show that the smaller a dog the greater his potential for vaccine reaction There is a period of vulnerability particularly with Parvo when a puppys maternal antibodies prevent his immunization with a vaccine and yet

are insufficient to protect him from actual infection with the virus This is important to remember with puppies in areas with widespread incidence of ParvoJust as with humans there is an emerging body of evidence on the role inflammation plays in the canine body Long thought to be a cause of healing it is increasingly thought to be a causative agent in disease and not a cure The natural response in a dogs body to vaccination is an increase in inflammation

In Conclusion

The study of canine immunology will be ongoing into the foreseeable future

Troubling questions remain for which there are no absolute answers or all encompassing solutionsVaccination decisions are unique to every dog and should be determined by the dogs age health breed etc Links for further reading as well as to some of the latest and most conservative vaccination protocols have been provided

Brett Winnhttpwwwthecaninescholarcom

ldquobe aware of disease risk and to make intelligent choicesrdquo

Dachshunds are among the breeds known to be vulnerable to vaccine related auto-immune

Continued from page 31

Additional Reading and Resourcesbull Everything Vaccinesbull Canine Health Concernbull Dr Jean Dodds Vaccination Protocolbull AAHA Canine Vaccine Guidelines

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to

support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

03062002 - 19112010

Stoneheart Snow Gypsy

Griz

I REMEMBERhellipHOW EVEN AS A BABY YOUrsquoD GRIZZLE AND GRUMP AT OTHER DOGS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE BLACK AND PINK ON YOUR NOSE MET TO MAKE THE SHAPE OF A BAT

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE FUR BETWEEN YOUR EYES FELT SO SILKY TO TOUCH

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY THE LITTLE KINK IN YOUR TAIL MADE IT WAG ALL THE FASTER WHEN YOU WERE HAPPY

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU USED TO CURL UP BEHIND MY KNEES FOR A NANA NAP AND HOW WE WERE THE PERFECT FIT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO SNEAK INTO THE SHOWER TO BE WITH ME YET GLARE AT ME AS IF IrsquoD PUT YOU THERE

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD SIT ON MY LAP AND PUT YOUR PAWS ON MY SHOULDERS TO PULL ME CLOSER

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOUrsquoD TALK BACK TO ME WHEN I BLEW YOU KISSES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO SIT ON THE FRONT SEAT AND GO EVERY PLACE WITH ME AND SULK IF I DIDNrsquoT TAKE YOU

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR FIRST BATH IN THE LAUNDRY SINK AND HOW YOU LOOKED AT ME AS THOUGH I WAS MURDERING YOU

I REMEMBERhellipALL THE TIMES WHEN WE WENT TO KCC FOR A BALL THROW AND HOW YOUrsquoD CARRY ON AS SOON AS YOU WORKED OUT WHERE WE WERE GOING

I REMEMBERhellipTHE WAY YOU FELT SNUGGLED UP NEXT TO ME IN BED AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW I NEVER NEEDED TO CALL YOU WHEN I WANTED YOU I ONLY NEEDED TO LOOK AND YOUrsquoD KNOW

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR BEAUTIFUL BIG DARK EYES

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU ALWAYS KNEW IT WAS TIME FOR BED

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO INSIST ON GETTING UNDER THE COVERS BY PAWING ME IN THE FACE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU HAD TO SIT BY ME ALL THE TIME EVEN IF YOU WERE UNCOMFORTABLE

I REMEMBERhellipHOW YOU USED TO LOVE TO PLAY TUG OF WAR WITH THE LEAD

I REMEMBERhellipYOUR LAST TIME IN THE SHOWRING AND HOW FABULOUS YOU THOUGHT YOU WERE AND I HAVE TO AGREE THAT AS FAR AS I WAS CONCERNED YOU REALLY WERE THE MOST FABULOUS

I REMEMBERhellipTHE LAST TIME I SAW YOU AND HOW EVEN THOUGH YOU WERE IN ENORMOUS AMOUNTS OF PAIN YOU SEARCHED ME OUT WITH THOSE EYES AND WAGGED YOUR TAIL JUST FOR ME

I REMEMBERhellipKISSING YOU GOODBYE

I REMEMBERhellip HOW THERErsquoS NOT A THING I WOULDNrsquoT GIVE TO HAVE YOU BY MY FEET AGAIN AT NIGHT

I REMEMBERhellipHOW MUCH I LOVED YOUhellipI WONrsquoT FORGEThellip

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Merchandise also available at wwwcafepresscomthankdog

laureenwilliams43ntlworldcom

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

THE EUKANUBA EXPERIENCE - FROM A BULLY POINT OF VIEW

Going to a National Championship with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is kinda like going to a sword fight with a pocket knife But I know that going in I have shown performance Staffies for almost 15 years now I just love the fight The fight with myself to prepare my dog to his or her full potential

Being one of the top agility dogs of your breed is a thrill in itself and then getting that invitation in the mail with your ranking on it and your dogs name with all its titles listed makes you want to compete even if the competition is over 2000 miles away

Two years ago was the first time I received such an invite ranked number 5 was just as cool to me as being ranked number one Going in my expectations were to travel with a friend also invited for the first time and just have fun That I did we had two clean rounds my dog had no problems flying met up with friends amp had a ball

Last year we were ranked 4 Now I thought I was a little bit smarter my dog better trained amp now my hopes were higher to perform better than the

year before Unfortunately a few weeks before the competition my little Betty decided that you can do the weave poles anyway you want amp that problem followed me all the way to California We did not have one clean run All that way and not one ribbon to show for it A disappointment to say the least but but we still had fun amp she really ran well except for the poles

This year Irsquom number two earned our MACH just a few months prior and I decided at the last minute to try my luck again My always helpful roommate couldnt make it so I trekked out to Long Beach on my own I did meet up with other friends once there

For some reason I really didnt

feel much pressure Im not sure why Maybe because ive had the

highs amp lows of National competition survived them both

amp learned a lot along the way

All five ranked Staffies were competing this year amp it was fun

seeing amp chatting with everyone After the first round only two

Staffies were clean Betty amp Eddie

I thought to myself Irsquove been here before amp a lot can go wrong in a

hurry

The second round again we ran

clean So far so good End of day

one

The second day round three I

thought to myself just do what I

have learned amp run relaxed

Again third run clean Wow can

this be real Could we some how

get a perfect score at a national

event

At this point iIm the only Staffie

that is clean amp leading by 1 fault

Its not that I wanted to beat the

other Staffies I just wanted to

show that our breed is up to the

task of a perfect score

Im not sure why I still wasnt

nervous The final course was

very technical at the beginning It

was a hybrid course only two

contact obstacles amp a lot of jumps

Continued on next page

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

The start was very slow for Betty because it was so twisty We got through that part clean then a discrimination section where the dog had to know the tunnel vs The a-frame We got through that ok Next three jumps to the teeter two of which were spread jumps which Staffies can have problems with three jumps in a pinwheel to the weaves change sides at the end of the poles amp three jumps out with a 180 turn between the last two We were wide at the 180 but were able to correct it We got the last two jumps amp there it was A perfect score of 400

I was thrilled All the hard work all the training it all paid off I felt I prepared myself amp my dog to do the best we could

A little later I found out I missed the finals by one place I was a little disappointed but still very proud of our accomplishment We were 11th out of 91 dogs in our height class I couldnt have been prouder of Betty She handled the stress of flying hotel stays amp the crowds of people amp noise at the ringside What a weekend in California to remember Hopefully ill be able to compete in orlando next year

Pam Dural amp Betty

Oakdell Staffords

Burr Ridge Il

Continued from page 36

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

L-BELLE

NEW TITLE

L-BELLE STAFFORDS

FO URO3 UCD UWPO UWPCHX UAGII UNJ GRCH Dynamo Sureshot Smart as a Fox CDX RE OA NAJ SPD NJ-N TT CGC (UKC SUPERDOG)(CH Sureshots King Louie x Karmas Edna Mae Leedee)

Fox earned her Companion Dog Excellent title fast and in style taking two 1st places amp a 2nd place Her last leg was well earned as 3 dogs decided to play rather than do their down-stay and they did it

directly on top of Foxy She stayed GOOOOD GIRLDNA Tested for L2-HGA DNA Tested for HC PennHIP 039039 OFA Hips Good OFA Elbows Normal OFA Shoulders Normal OFA Patellas Normal OFA Cardiac (Echo) Normal OFA BAER Normal CERF DNA

Send us your BRAGS Litter Announcements Seminar and Show announcements and we can post them here Be sure to fill out the BRAGS form

found HERE

The Stafford Knot Brags Shows Litters

TRAMAC

LITTER ANNOUNCEMENT

TRAMAC

Am Ch Slam Dance - Chablakmor True Euphoria

Congratulations to Tracy McManus on the safe arrival of the first Tramac litter With gorgeous puppies Puppies are clear by parentage for L2 and HC Both parents PHPV unaffected

Litter whelped 11-22-2010

L2-HGA HC Clear by parentage

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Each month TSK will take questions from our readers and present them to breed specialists experienced breeders veterinarians geneticists or experts in the field of the particular questions being asked

We hope you enjoy the information provided based upon YOUR feedback

Ask TSK - Q amp AQuestionDear Staffordknot

Over and over again I hear people arguing about a couple of things in the Staffy breed standard One being height and weight and the other being toplines Our standard says level topline Does this mean flat like a coffee table or does this mean level at beginning and end or what I am not new to dogs or staffys but I am not an anatomy student either Can you please give a credible definition of what is a level topline please Thank you

AnswerGreat question For your answer we refer to a paragraph on page 170 of the book Showing amp Judging Dogs by Hilary Harmar (1977 Arco Publishing Co Inc NY) called

ldquoUNDULATIONS OF THE SPINAL COLUMNrdquo

ldquoOwing to the different angles of the spines of the vertebrae from the withers to the tail it will be seen that the top-line could never be absolutely level Obviously since the spinal processes are in four distinct areas and in each area they incline in different directions where they do meet there has to be a slight dip or rise There is often a slight dip downwards at the withers and in the show world this is often considered a fault Structurally however it is not a faultit merely indicates that the spines are long But where this dipped section meets the five vertebrae of the back the top-line must change direction and this part of the back must be parallel to the ground The forward slanting spines of the loins must now meet the more or less upright ones of the back and where they meet there must be another slight undulation just as there will be where the croup starts The whole spinal column will not and should not be absolutely straight Just as the spinal column is not absolutely straight in the human Yet we erroneously talk about straight backs in both humans and in dogsrdquo

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Wanted Samples for PHPVPPSC ResearchIf you own or have bred a dog diagnosed with either of these eye conditions could you help by supplying mouth swabs from the affected dog plus its parents and litter-mates

Any PHPV positives found in litter screenings are not reported in the Breeds Record Supplement nor are any cases of PPSC - hence this appeal

If sufficient samples from affected cases can be obtained it is hoped that research to determine the inheritance of both conditions may be commenced possibly leading eventually to DNA tests similar to those available for HC and L-2-HGA

A copy of the eye test certificate and a copy of the dogs pedigree would also be appreciated All samples and information will of course be confidential just in case anyone has any concerns about that

If you can help with this and thus help the Stafford can you please contact one of the following who can supply swabs and any information required

Diane Taylor - 01670 823635 email - taylorniatonafsnetcouk

Lesley McFadyen - 01205 871762 email - easbtcthedoghouse89freeservecouk

Archie Bryden - 01772 715807 email - archiebrydenyahoocouk

Many thanks for your co-operation

wwwstaffordscouk

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

The Stafford Knot wishes to provide the following information for your convenience TSK encourages health testing of all Staffordshire Bull Terriers especially those used for breeding purposes andor performance events The testing is made available to be used as a tool to eliminate certain diseases from a breeding program Used wisely this can be accomplished The following testing information is provided as a service to you however should not be used as the only health checks your Stafford receives There are many more health issues to be considered when breeding dogs caring for dogs and when looking to buy a purebred dog As always please seek the advice of your personal veterinary specialists for your day-to-day needs of your dogs Thank you

Please note - a CERF or PHPV test done by a canine ophthalmologist is NOT the same test as the one done to check for HC BOTH tests should be carried out

PLEASE send in your test results for the databases Accurate records are valuable to the breed

Remember if you choose to breed from a carrier you must test the entire resulting litter to determine clears amp carriers Thus if you choose to keep a carrier from that litter the same must be

done for each subsequent litter resulting from breeding carriers If you sell carrier pups please consider spayneuter so that more carriers are not produced With the advent and ease of genetic

testing many of these diseases could be eliminated by only breeding clear to clear To use a known carrier requires an extra step of responsibility There is no excuse to breed an untested dog

Testing Facility For L2-Hga amp HC

Animal Health Trust

Lanwades Park Kentford

New Market Suf folk CB87UU

Phone 01638 751000

Fax 01638 750410

Email infoahtorguk

Website wwwahtorguk

Direct Link

wwwahtorgukgenetics_testshtmlcanine

Testing Facility For L2-Hga Only

Canine Genetic Diseases - University Of Missouri

321 Connaway Hal l

Columbia Missouri 65211-5120 USA

Phone 573-884-3712

Fax 573-884-5414

Email HansenLmissouri edu

Website wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnet

Direct Link

wwwcaninegeneticdiseasesnetDNAtestsTestsnowhtm

Due to a patent issue Vetgen current ly can no longer do the HC test and they have sa id that they do not know when the issue wi l l be reso lved

Continued on next page

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Other labs offering L-2-HGA test in Europe

France wwwantagenecom

Czech Republic wwwgenomiacz

Germany wwwlaboklinde wwwlaboklincouk

Testing Facility For Hip Elbows Patella and Cardiac Certifications

Orthopedic Foundation For Animals (OFA)

2300 E Nifong BoulevardColumbia Missouri 65201-3806 USA

Phone 573-442-0418 Fax 573-875-5073

Email ofaoffaorg

Website wwwoffaorg

Note A Board Certified Cardiologist must perform all Cardiac exams

A qualified licensed Veterinarian can provide X-Ray films for hips elbows and Patella

Testing Facility For Eye Certifications

Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

1717 Philo RdP O Box 3007Urbana IL 61803-3007 USA

Phone 217-693-4800

Fax 217-693-4801

Email CERFvmdborg

Website wwwvmdborgcerfhtml

Note A Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist must perform all CERF exams

CERF exams are annual exams for breeding stock

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Continued on next page

Balance = Lack of Exaggeration

Please view online version at wwwthestaffordknotcom

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Continued on next page

With regard to faults - Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the lsquoSERIOUSNESSrsquo with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its DEGREE

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Continued on page 36

It is possible that some breeders and exhibitors do not completely understand what a correct scissors bite should look like If in doubt ask your veterinarian or spend some time with an experienced mentor who can give you some hands-on education with a variety of dogs

Remember that bad bites are hereditary and breeding Staffords with incorrect bites will assure the continuation of the problem for generations to come As breeders it is our job to let judges know that correct bites are important to us Similarly judges can let us know that they will accept no less

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Males 14rdquo 28lbs

14 12rdquo3045lbs15rdquo3285lbs

15 12rdquo355lbs16rdquo 38lbs

Females14rdquo 24lbs

14 12rdquo2625lbs15rdquo2880lbs

15 12rdquo3131lbs16rdquo34lbs

Continued on next page

ldquoHeights Being Related to Weightsrdquo Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 poundsthese heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

A Breed Standard is the guideline which describes the ideal characteristics temperament and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function Absolute soundness is essential Breeders and judges should at all times be careful to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations which would be detrimental in any way to the health welfare or soundness of this breed From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be considered to have the potential to affect dogs in some breeds adverselyIf a feature or quality is desirable it should only be present in the right measure

Continued on next page

The head should appear clean No wrinkle or bunched up expression One should strive for 23 to 13 ratio head to muzzle with a definite stop but not an EXAGGERATED stop or lack of stop The stop itself should be almost vertical The easiest way to determine accurate stop is to place your thumb on the stop and look at the angle of your thumb Do not be fooled by the profile view of the eye socket and mistake this for the stop The lip should be very clean thin and tight to the teeth meeting top and bottom with no flews or wrinkled fleshy or spongey excess thus giving the Stafford a somewhat serious expression at times The lip should not turn down at the end or be excessive Exaggerations of under jaw include total lack or under jaw weak under jaw or too strong an under jaw None of these are correct Depending upon the cleanness of the lip - this can be difficult to asses without a hands on going over

The nose itself may turn up slightly at the tip but keep in mind the plane of the muzzle and the head - they should be parallel to one another When the muzzle turns up more than the plane of the top skull the dog has a dish face and if the planes dip downward - a down face - neither is clean balanced and will be exaggerated in expression When the muzzle is too short or too long they will lack balance Ears can deceive on a glance so best to get your hands on the dogs head and feel for placement thickness of leather and size More on heads in a later article

Does the dog have sufficient length of leg Can you see daylight under himher If not is it due to a short upper arm or just overall shortness of leg all around A balanced Stafford should measure the same from the withers to the ground - as it does from the withers to the base of the tail set Staffords are a square breed They are not low to the ground or squatty They are not way up on leg either Enough leg enough back - not too much not too little Is there massive bone or fine bone Neither is balanced Staffords are square - BALANCED with no EXAGGERATION

Is the animal wider in front than looks natural or is it pinched in front Neither is correct The front legs should appear to drop directly down from the shoulder The front shouldnt appear to be lsquoinrsquo or lsquooutrsquo and MOST CERTAINLY certainly shouldnt look like a bulldog The legs straight no weakness at pastern but the tight well padded feet DO turn out a little Not a lot and not straight as in other terrier breeds The rear should appear strong - not HUGE and not weak and narrow - somewhat even to the front when viewed from above

There should be a definite waist line with approximately 4 fingers width between the last rib and the hip bone One should see that last rib as well showing no fat or wrinkle and sufficient tuck up from the profile

A Stafford is certainly well muscled yet not bunched muscle - long and lean muscle is much more suited to the breed and its original intended purpose Not a heavyweight boxer but more like a middleweight It must be able to move easily be active and agile Too much bunched muscle is exaggeration and the dog will lack balance Not enough and he will appear soft and will not function correctly Exaggeration of muscle in either direction will affect movement as well

Its all about a balance NO EXAGGERATION

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed StandardsBreed Standard (AKC version) Terrier Group

General AppearanceThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog It should be of great strength for its size and although muscular should be active and agile

Size Proportion SubstanceHeight at shoulder 14 to 16 inches Weight Dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds these heights being related to weights Non-conformity with these limits is a fault In proportion the length of back from withers to tail set is equal to the distance from withers to ground

HeadShort deep through broad skull very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface black nose Pink (Dudley) nose to be considered a serious fault Eyes--Dark preferable but may bear some relation to coat color Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Light eyes or pink eye rims to be considered a fault except that where the coat surrounding the eye is white the eye rim may be pink Ears--Rose or half-pricked and not large Full drop or full prick to be considered a serious fault Mouth--A bite in which the outer side of the lower incisors touches the inner side of the upper incisorsThe lips should be tight and clean The badly undershot or overshot bite is a serious fault

Neck Topline BodyThe neck is muscular rather short clean in outline and gradually widening toward the shoulders The body is close coupled with a level topline wide front deep brisket and well sprung ribs being rather light in the loins The tail is undocked of medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low It should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle A tail that is too long or badly curled is a fault

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather far apart without looseness at the shoulders and showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point the feet turn out a little Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed The feet should be well padded strong and of medium size

HindquartersThe hindquarters should be well muscled hocks let down with stifles well bent Legs should be parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws if any on the hind legs are generally removed Feet as in front

CoatSmooth short and close to the skin not to be trimmed or de-whiskered

ColorRed fawn white black or blue or any of these colors with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black-and-tan or liver color to be disqualified

GaitFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hind legs

TemperamentFrom the past history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the modern dog draws its character of indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity This coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability makes it a foremost all-purpose dog

DisqualificationBlack-and-tan or liver colorApproved November 14 1989Effective January 1 1990

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standards

General AppearanceSmooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

CharacteristicsTraditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children

TemperamentBold fearless and totally reliable

Head and SkullShort deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black

EyesDark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

EarsRose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

MouthLips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping lower teeth and set square to the jaws

NeckMuscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

ForequartersLegs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow

BodyClose-coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

HindquartersWell muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind

FeetWell padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

TailMedium length low-set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

GaitMovementFree powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

CoatSmooth short and closeColourRed fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable

SizeDesirable height at withers 36-41 cms (14 to 16 ins) these heights being related to the weights Weight dogs 13-17 kgs (28-38 lbs) bitches 11-154 kgs

FaultsAny departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog

Note - Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

Last Updated - September 2000

Breed Standard (KC version)

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

United Kennel Club (UKC version)Terrier Group Copyright 1992 United Kennel Club Inc Revised April 15 2007

History The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a descendant of the Bull and Terrier crosses made in Great Britain in the late 1700s It was given the name Staffordshire in reference to an area where it was very popular to differentiate it from the other Bull and Terrier breeds

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1975

General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth coated dog that possesses great strength for its size Although muscular it is active and agile

Characteristics This breed has indomitable courage high intelligence and tenacity Coupled with its affection for its friends and children in particular its quietness and trustworthy stability make it an all-purpose dog

Head The head is short and deep throughout with a distinct stopSKULL - The skull is broad and the cheek muscles are very pronouncedMUZZLE - the foreface is short with strong jaws and clean tight lipsTEETH - A full complement of strong white teeth meet in a scissors bite the outer side of the lower incisors touching the inner side of the upper incisorsSerious Faults Badly overshot or undershot bitesEYES - Dark eyes are preferred but may bear some relation to coat color The round medium size eyes are set on to look straight ahead Dark eye rims are preferredNOSE - The nose is blackEARS - The rose or half-pricked ears are not largeSerious Faults Full drop ear Full prick ear

Neck The muscular rather short neck is clean in outline and widens gradually toward the shoulders

Forequarters The shoulders are well laid backFORELEGS - The straight well-boned forelegs are set rather far apart at the shoulders but show no looseness at the elbow The pasterns are strong and the feet turn out slightly

Body The body is close-coupled with a broad deep chest and well-sprung ribs The loins are fairly light and the topline is level

Hindquarters The hindquarters are well-muscledHIND LEGS - The stifles are well-bent The hocks are well let down The legs are parallel when viewed from behind Dewclaws are generally removed from the hind legs

Feet The strong medium-sized feet are well padded

Tail The medium-length tail is not docked It is low-set carried rather low and tapers to a point It does not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handleFaults Too long or badly curled tail

Coat The short smooth coat is close to the skin Neither the coat nor the whiskers are to be trimmed

Color Acceptable colors include red fawn white black any shade of brindle and blue with or without whiteSerious Faults Black and tan or liver

Height amp Weight Height measured at the shoulders ranges from 14 to 16 inches Weight ranges are as follows dogs 28 to 38 pounds bitches 24 to 34 pounds Weight depends on the height of the individual dog

Gait The free powerful agile movement is accomplished with an economy of effort When viewed from the front or the rear the legs move parallel There is a noticeable drive from the hind legs

Disqualifications Unilateral or bilateral cryptorchid Viciousness or extreme shyness Albinism

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

Australian National (ANKC version) Group Group 2 (Terriers)

General Appearance Smooth coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile Characteristics Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Temperament Bold fearless and totally reliable Head And Skull Short deep though with broad skull Very pronounced cheek muscles distinct stop short foreface nose black Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable Mouth Lips tight and clean Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite ie upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to the jaws Neck Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulder Forequarters Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little Shoulders well laid back with no looseness at elbow Body Close coupled with level topline wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined Hindquarters Well muscled hocks well let down with stifles well bent Legs parallel when viewed from behind Feet Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs Tail Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old fashioned pump handle GaitMovement Free powerful and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs Coat Smooth short and close Colour Red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or liver colour highly undesirable Sizes Weight Dogs 13-17 kg (28-38 lbs) Bitches 11-154 kg (24-34 lbs) Desirable Height 36-41 cms (14-16 ins) at withers(these heights being related to the weights) Faults Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Notes Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

FCI-(Feacutedeacuteration Internationale Cynologique version)ORIGIN Great Britain DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE ORIGINAL VALID STANDARD 24061987

UTILIZATION Terrier CLASSIFICATION FCI Group 3 Terriers Section 3 Bull type Terriers Without working trial

GENERAL APPEARANCE - Smooth-coated well balanced of great strength for his size Muscular active and agile

BEHAVIOUR TEMPERAMENT

Traditionally of indomitable courage and tenacity Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children Bold fearless and totally reliable

HEAD - Short - CRANIAL REGION

Skull Deep through with broad skull

Stop Distinct

FACIAL REGION

Nose Black

Muzzle Short foreface

JawsTeeth Jaws strong teeth large with a perfect regular and complete scissor bite i e upper teeth closely overlapping the lower teeth and set square to

the jaw

Lips Tight and clean

Cheeks Very pronounced cheek muscles

Eyes Dark preferred but may bear some relation to coat colour Round of medium size and set to look straight ahead Eye rims dark

Ears Rose or half pricked not large or heavy Full drop or pricked ears highly undesirable

NECK - Muscular rather short clean in outline gradually widening towards shoulders

BODY

Close-coupled

Topline Level

Chest Wide front deep brisket well sprung ribs muscular and well defined

TAIL - Medium length low set tapering to a point and carried rather low Should not curl much and may be likened to an old-fashioned pump handle

LIMBS

FOREQUARTERS Legs straight and well boned set rather wide apart showing no weakness at the pasterns from which point feet turn out a little

Shoulders Well laid back

Elbows No looseness

HINDQUARTERS Well muscled Legs parallel when viewed from behind

Stifles Well bent

Hocks Well let down

FEET Well padded strong and of medium size Nails black in solid coloured dogs

GAIT MOVEMENT

Free powerfull and agile with economy of effort Legs moving parallel when viewed from front or rear Discernible drive from hindlegs

COAT

HAIR Smooth short and close

COLOUR red fawn white black or blue or any one of these colours with white Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white Black and tan or

liver colour highly undesirable

SIZE AND WEIGHT

Desirable height at withers 14-16 ins (355 to 405 cm) these heights being related to the weights

Weight Dogs 28-38 lbs (127-17 kg) Bitches 24-34 lbs (11-154 kg)

FAULTS

Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact

proportion to its degree and its effect upon the health and welfare of the dog Any dog clearly showing physical or behavioural abnormalities shall be

disqualified

NB Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Below are TSK Featured Staffords currently in rescue and in need of homes We list these dogs as a courtesy The dogs are NOT here with us They are in different parts of the world We have NO connection to any of them TSK lists

them in order that they may gain more exposure and find great permanent homes Please do not send us questions about these dogs as we have no further information than what is listed below There are links and contact info on each dog We encourage sponsorship of these dogs in order to lessen the burden of foster care and kenneling Thank

you for considering rescue

=====================================

Continued on next page

Brady was rescued from a shelter He is neutered fully vaccinated amp housebroken This beautiful boy loves people but needs to be an only pet Unfortunately Brady is heart worm positive but is on a mild form of heart worm treatment With some rest amp TLC he should bounce back to good health Brady is a handsome Stafford who desperately needs a loving home Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Brady or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed=====================================

Brady - 3 Year Old Male - Victorville CA

Sarge - 6 Year Old Male - Kearny PASarge is a very sweet Stafford who loves all people especially kids He is sociable with dogs and cats but one should never forget he is a Stafford He is well trained obedient and healthy up on all his shots He is sad to know that his family cant keep him as they are forced to move to a home that doesnt allow pets and they have no one to turn to Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Sarge or to sponsor him Funding and foster care is always needed

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

The Stafford Knot Featured Rescues

Asia - 10 Year Old Female - Northern California

Asia is a sweet veteran girl whos owners are no longer able to keep her We are looking for a loving forever home where she will be the ONLY pet for her to spend her golden years Please contact Rescuesbtcacom to adopt Asiaor to sponsor her Funding and foster care is always needed

=====================================

=====================================

She ended up at the National Animal Welfare Trust Cornwall (NAWT) as her previous owners circumstances had changed and was no longer able to care for her She has now been with us here at the Cornwall branch of the National Animal Welfare Trust for the best part of a year and a half bless her We know that she has had at least 2 homes before coming into us so we really want to get her into her forever home She is a very loving girl and would suit a quieter home or maybe a 1-1 type home that has had experience with rescue dogs or SBT She could live with children 12yrs plus as long as they are sensible and used to dogs She will need to be the only animal in the home as she doesnt get along with other animals She LOVES water and could paddleswim all day if you let her although she isnt to keen on going out when its raining She is good to walk on the lead and loves being out and about or having a good play Please e-mail or the centres phone number is 01736 756005

CORNISH ANIMAL RESCUE CENTREWheal Alfred Kennels Wheal Alfred RoadHAYLECornwallTR27 5JT

To sponsor Rippley click HERE

To make a donation click HERE

Let them know you saw her on TSK

Thank you

Rippley - 10 Year Old Female - Cornwall UK

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

The Stafford Knot Stud Gallery

The Stafford Knot lists health tested stud dogs in the gallery however it is up to you to verify this testing by asking to see the certificates for each test if they are not made available here for download We have screened this to the best of our ability but cannot guarantee dogs listed have been tested PLEASE ask for copies of certificates before using dogs at

stud for the health and the future of our breed Thank youForm to advertise in Stud Gallery is found HERE

DayDream Ch Slam Dance CGC (Imp UK)ldquoNigelrdquo13 13

DNA - AKC - P24384L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected OFAPennHip Hips Patella CERFhttpwwwoffaorgdisplayhtmlappnum=678935animal

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Frozen semen available to health tested bitches onlyMore photos of Nigel available Health documents available by request

=======================================

=======================================DayDreamJayneze Diamonds And Guns (Imp UK)ldquoTierneyrdquo13

DNA - AKC - V567946 L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected CERF OFA Hips good OFA Elbow normal

httpsunnycrestvmdborgCerfWebSearchSearchResultsaspx

daydreamsbtscoxnetwwwdaydreamsbtcom

Tel 530-306-0305

Available to health tested bitches only Health documents available by request

Continued on next page

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

GamepitCh Carnig Positive ProfileldquoFrankldquo

Clear of L2-HGA amp HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

gamepitblueyondercouk

Tel 0208 401 8182

Clear Tested bitches only need apply

=======================================ZoelliesSabahouse Touch of Class At ZoelliesldquoTylerrdquo13Clear of L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected- documentation available upon request

andyzoelliescouk wwwzoelliescouk

Tel 01994427484 Tel 07817432866

copy Stu Coates 2010 wwwshowstaffscouk

=======================================AbsoluteBIS BISS CH Belnore Dream Keeper OFAlsquoBeaursquo13 13

AKC DNA - V426729Clear of L2-HGA HC OFAPennHip Hips OFAPennHip Elbows Patella OFA Cardiac - documentation available upon request

AbsoluteASTaolcomwwwabsoluteamericanstaffordshireterriercom

Tel 337-255-3508

Continued on next page

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

SajojistaffCH Sajojistaff Back In BlacklsquoGeorgersquo13 13L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

familyclementsbtinternetcom httpsajojistaffwebscom

Tel 01608 659869 Only clear tested bitches may applyHealth documentation available by request

=======================================RamstaffCh Ramstaff American Ikon TTldquoIkerdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC OFA Cardiac

Ramstaffearthlinknetwwwramstaffkennelscom

770-888-5255

Available to clear tested bitches onlyHealth documents available by request

=======================================

MoonstruckCH Moonstruck The Stamler Express TTldquoStamlerrdquo13 13 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202

Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments OnlyHealth documents available by request

Continued on next page

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

MoonstruckMoonstruck Blue Asher TTldquoAsherrdquo1313 13 13

L2-HGA HC PHPV Unaffected

jlhellerverizonnetwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom

301-261-4202 Available to Heath Tested Bitches with Correct Stafford Temperaments Only

Health documents available by request

=======================================The Stafford Knot is an independent publication and not affiliated with any specific breed club TSK is a collaborative effort

from like minded Stafford enthusiasts whose common goal is to support the health testing of purebred Staffords We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted

All material on this site is copyright protected amp cannot be used unless indicated without the written consent of

The Stafford KnotThank you

Contact Us

Merchandise now available - proceeds benefit Stafford rescue worldwide

CLICK to shop and donate to SBT Rescue

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

The Stafford Knot Classified Advertising

The Stafford Knot is offering classified advertising of goods and services which are dog related Ads are limited to 20 words no images For larger ads please consider gallery advertising The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for any items sold through this page All sales are between seller and purchaser

TSK makes no warranties either written or implied

Information on how to advertise in TSK classifieds can be found HERE

=====================================

The Whole Dog Your Premier Resource For Natural Dog Care Consultations products articles Dr Jeannie Thomason - veterinary naturopath infothewholedogorg

Thankdog - All Breeds Equal Help fight BSL - promote responsible dog ownership T-shirts Calendars Stickers amp more Proceeds benefit Stafford causesthankdoggmailcom wwwcafepresscomThankdog

Natural Rearing Breeders Association Breeders natural animal health care providers individuals actively contributing to increasing health and longevity of our dogshttpwwwnrbreedersassociationorg

Frogge Dog Shop Art crafts natural health care products for pets All handmadefroggedogshopgmailcom Froggedogshopcom

aecollars Handcrafted SBT Collars Leads amp HarnessesTel 01981 241488 or Int +44 1981 241488wwwaecollarscouk for made to measure servicewwwstaffordleathercom for ready made items

My Staffy For the Love of Staffordshire Bull Terriers Staffordshire Bull Terrier merchandise amp gifts T-shirts plush toys amp collectibles wwwmystaffycomau

Young Living Experience therapeutic benefits of essential oils for your family - pets too Use Independent Distributor Referral 1166695CLICK for more info

Take advantage now of this incredible deal on classified advertising These prices wont last long

Bull Breeds Online Your online forum for all Bull Breed lovers and canine enthusiasts wwwbullbreedsonlinecomlsquoLikerdquo us on Face Book

Bait Me Treats Dehydrated treats for dogs amp cats Nothing added 100 natural USA sourced Hand cut Hand packed Wholesale bulk available infobaitmetreatscom wwwbaitmetreatscom

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

The Stafford Knot Breeder Directory

The Stafford Knot cannot be held responsible for the breeders listed below Please do your homework and ask to see health certificates discuss terms and decide whether the Stafford is the correct breed for you prior to purchasing a puppy Remember Stafford rescues are also available and make be wonderful pets in the right homes A Stafford is not the breed for everyone Please

be responsible dog owners and take responsibility for you and your dog in all situations Contact us with questions

We reserve the right to approve or disapprove any material submitted Form to advertise in Breeders Directory can be found HERE

AlabamaCornerstoneThe FolmarsAlabamahttpwwwcornerstonestaffordsnet205-966-8114L2-HGA HC

Staffords that are exemplary in type amp balance

FloridaCloverdale Staffordshirebull TerriersAmy OBrian amp Jeff MarkeySarasota FloridaEMAILwwwcloverdalestaffordscom941-377-9294L2-HGA HC

CaliforniaCamelot StaffordsJoan GanzSacramento CaliforniaEMAIL httpwwwcamelotstaffordshirebullterrierscom 916-342-0854L2-HGA HC

ldquoBreeding for temperament and standardrdquo

GeorgiaWavemaker StaffordsJim amp Lynn CaswellGA USA EMAILwwwwavemakerstaffordscom770-666-6121L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoNaturally reared - Promoting health exercise amp the Breed Standard - Wavemaker Staffordsnaturallyrdquo

CaliforniaChavier StaffordsKim Washington-SmithSouthern CaliforniaEMAIL 213 - 760-9081L2-HGA HC CERF

Breeding Staffords with Charm

GeorgiaRamstaff StaffordsAngie amp Kevin BeezleyGeorgia USAEMAILwwwramstaffkennelscom770-888-5255L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoRamstafffocusing on the standard blend of bull amp terrier with true stafford temperamentalwaysrdquo

CaliforniaGemini KennelBeth LloydSouthern CaliforniaEMAILwwwangelfirecomca2geminikennelL2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoFrom show dogs to GO dogsrdquo

Illinois1 of a Kind StaffordsAndrew CurrierPeoria IlEMAIL 309-691-7134L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac

ldquoUnequalled in type balance fitness amp healthrdquo

North America

Continued on next page

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

MarylandHi-Impact Staffords (Reg)Rich NewbergerBaltimorehttphiimpactstaffordscom410-323-4141L2-HGA HC PHPV Hips Elbows Cardiac CERF

ldquoBred to standard not by designrdquo

Wellington New ZealandBattleaxeGrant amp Louise BlackwooddglkblackXTRACONZhttpwwwbattleaxekennelscom0064 4478-9313 L2-HGA HC PHPV

MarylandMoonstruck StaffordsJudy HellerEdgewater MD 21037EMAILwwwmoonstruckstaffordscom301-261-4202L2-HGA HC

Quality Staffordshire Bull Terriers of Correct Type amp Temperament for Show Performance amp Companion The Ultimate Nanny Dogrdquo13

MichiganBlessings KennelCathy Micallef Southeastern MIEMAILwwwblessingskennelorg 734-634-9328L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows Patella Cardiac CERF

ldquoWonderful companions with show amp working potentialrdquo

New YorkStephanie CrawfordBinghamton NYEMAIL607-775-1996 L2-HGA HC Hips

WashingtonANGEL ROCK Staffordshire Bull TerriersSpokane Washingtonwwwangelrockdogscom

ldquoSBT educational articles tons of photos and rescue info too

WisconsinMSLF KennelsCindy BundyEMAIL 262-857-9412L2-HGA HC Hips Elbows CERF Other

ldquoWe strive to promote sound minds and bodiesrdquo

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

The Stafford Knot Back Issues

January 2010Issue 1 Vol 1Articles include

Joseph Dunn - Hints to the NoviceSBT=Bulldog+Terrier

February 2010Issue 2 Vol 1Articles includeSBT Breed Seminar Raymond Crilly - Judges EdBreeders Code of SilenceSBT Exhibition Center(Past Crufts Wnners story NOT included)

March 2010Issue 3 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardBalance amp Movement - Judges EdPHPV - Talarsquos Story - HealthDemodectic Mange - Alternative Therapies for Treatments - Health(WKC stories NOT included)

April 2010Issue 4 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardRX For Whelping amp Caesarians - Breeders Ed What You See is What You GetThe Tragic Loss of Bloodlines amp Mentoring in America - Breeders EdA Very Special Boy Meets His 1st Stafford

May 2010Issue 5 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardTan Point Markings - AKA Black amp Tan JudgesBreeders EdStaffords in Working TrialsFibro Cartilawhat - HealthHow to Select Against Genetic Disease with Knowledge Not Hope - Breeders Ed

June 2010Issue 6 Vol 1Articles includeInfo on Health TestingIllustrated Breed StandardGDC Genetics Interview Breeders EdBalance in the SBT JudgesBreeders EdOne By One - What YOU can doThe Disappearing Sperm - Breeders EdHealthSBT Breed Record Holders Part 1

July 2010Issue 7 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardDogs Who Fly - Dock DivingJudging My Way - Judges Exhibitors EdThe Holy GrailHow to Weight Pull with your Staffordshire Bull TerrierTrack Training - Starting OutFlyball - ldquoOrganized Chaosrdquo

August 2010 - VeteransIssue 8 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardGrey Muzzles amp Puppy Dog TalesStaying in the GameMy SunshineTammyAlfALSO may be viewed HERE

September 2010 Issue 9 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardTraining Your StaffordForequartersWhat Price GloryEarly neurological StimulationALSO may be viewed HERE

October 2010 Issue 10 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardLiving With CushingsDont Steal My JoyWhat is Natural RearingUsing Genetic PedigreeALSO may be viewed HERE

November 2010 Issue 11 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardMiracles Do HappenNostalgiaThe Versatile StaffordThe Genetic PedigreeArnica MontanaAlso may be viewed HERE

ALL articles published in TSK during the 2010 year may be viewed HERE

December 2010 Issue 12 Vol 1Articles includeIllustrated Breed StandardThe Breed TodayPuppies For ChristmasPets As TherapyUnderstanding Recessive GenesA Tribute To TrilbyWhen Things Donrsquot Go As PlannedAlso may be viewed HERE

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

WHAT IS THE STAFFORD KNOT

The origin of the Stafford Knot is a distinctive three-looped knot that is the tradition symbol of the

English county of Staffordshire and of its county town Stafford

Although not heraldic in its own right the Stafford Knot is an ancient symbol that is steeped in history

The earliest recording of the Stafford Knot is the shaft of a stone cross located in Stoke-on-Trent

churchyard The cross itself is traceable to between 750 and 850 AD However the knot device could

have been added at a later date

There is a seal existing in the British Museum London which was the property of Lady Joan

Stafford (later Lady Wake) It would seem that Lady Wake used on her seal a border made up from her

husbands badge the Wake Knot made up from the initials W and O (for Wake and Ormond) intertwined The seal quite clearly depicts a cordon of four knots

in the shape of the Stafford Knot

The knot was passed down through the Earls family and it was gradually used by the citizens and

freemen of Stafford until it was eventually included in the Stafford Borough Coat of Arms It is

incorporated into the badges and symbols of many organizations and companies viz Staffordshire Police Staffordshire Fire Service Staffordshire

Ambulance Service

A popular romantic notion of the Stafford Knot is that it was used in barbaric times by a Stafford County

Sheriff who invented it to hang three criminals at the same time but the evidence above clearly

contradicts this idea

The motto of the arms of the County of Stafford is

The Knot Unites

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME

13 Ever wonder why Stafford owners and breeders are so protective proud and rather boisterous when it comes to discussing this breed

How many people have told stories about when they first learned of the breed and their first encounters with Stafford owners and breeders Some say its like a nearly impenetrable wall Or that they had to learn a secret handshake in order to be accepted into the Stafford family

Could the old saying be true that people dont choose dogs but that dogs choose their people

I think this is the case with Staffords I have yet to meet a Stafford owner without strong opinions and they

arenrsquot afraid to voice them eitherloudly too

This tenacious trait can be a good thing or it could be perceived as troublesome We all want our dogs to be well behaved in public donrsquot we to represent the breed as true ambassadors

How about all of us owners breeders and enthusiasts try to do the same Could we

Sure fire up when appropriate but sometimes its that quiet dog who gets his point across best

Share TSK with someone Thank you to all of you for supporting TSK

Go hug your Staffords

Lynn Caswell Editor

From the Editor

The Stafford Knot The Back Page

NEXT MONTHUNDERSTANDING JUDGING

CONSISTENCY

TAMMY

WHAT IS CERF

STAFFORD OBEDIENCE

A PICTORIAL LOOK AT THE

EARLY YEARS

ALL TOPICS SUBJECT TO

CHANGES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AT PUBLISHING

TIME THE ABOVE TOPICS ARE

ESTABLISHED AT CURRENT

PRESS TIME