Protecting the Stafford's 
future as a pet, in SA

by Griet Coetzer

"The Dangerous Dogs Act"

Staffordshire Bull Terriers, like other bull breeds, are at risk in our country. An article appeared in the Sunday Tribune in July 2005 where the Stafford, the American Stafford and the Pitbull are pointed out as dangerous dogs and that these breeds are to be banned in Denmark. 

If we, as breeders and loved ones of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier are not pro-active, we could very well loose the pleasure of living with this wonderful breed! I suggest that we educate new-comers in the Stafford breed. Like many breeds, the Stafford's character and personality is affected by the environment it's brought-up in.

WHAT WE (as Stafford enthusiasts and/or breeders) CAN DO to make a difference:

• Inform people interested in obtaining a Stafford, about the breed. 
  It's pros and cons. (see Living with a Stafford)

• Advising new and interested owners on this breed...
  Why do you want a Stafford?
  Will you be able to look after it?
  Do you understand a Staffords personality and demands?
  Encourage the new owner to read as much as they can on the breed.
  Speak to owners and breeders of Staffords. Go and experience the breed at someone's home or a dog show.

• Possible questions to ask a breeder before buying. (If the answer is NO to any of these without providing a plausible explanation, re-think!)

  • Can I see the parents?

  • Will I receive a pedigree (min 3 generation)?

  • Is there a return policy if the puppy doesn't work out?

  • Do you acknowledge any hereditary defects prevalent in the breed?

  • Do you offer a general health guarantee and for what period of time?

  • Will I get a record of inoculations and de-worming?

  • Will the pup be KUSA registered?

  • Are you willing to take the time to talk to me and provide all the information I need? 

Get HELPFUL INFORMATION from:

• KUSA (The Kennel Union of Southern Africa), 
  the registrar of all pedigreed dogs.
  (Tel: 021 4239027/8)

• Staffordshire Bull Terrier Clubs:

  • KZN SBTC: 
    Hans & Charmayne v Rijsbergen (Tel: 031 7621352)

  • Pretoria SBTC: 
    Henry & Elize Strachan (Tel: 

  • The SBTC Transvaal: 
    Robert & Debbie Rugg (Tel: 011 6609059)

  • North West SBTC: 
    Frik Schoeman (Tel: 012 2532057)

  • Border SBTC: 
    Graham Karshagen (Tel: 043 7405309)

  • Western Cape SBTC:
    M Knoetzen (Tel: 021 9815817 a/h)

  • OFS SBTC:
    Gerrie & Adri v Rooyen (Tel: 051 4366849)

  • The SBTC Eastern Cape:
    Lynn Scholtz (Tel: 041 3687347)