"The Staffordshire Bull Terrier" by Jack Barnard

"Jack Barnard, the first President of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club was in a strong position to write about those early days of the development of this noble breed.

This book shows that the breed was in existence long before being recognised but the Kennel Club. It also recalls the days when cockfighting, bull baiting and dog fighting were the sports of the multitude. He was greatly opposed to these practises and no doubt helped to modify the law and make dog fighting illegal.

The cruelty and savagery were appalling, yet, at the same time, there was great devotion to the dogs owned; they were regarded as part of the family.

One of the sections shows to what lengths the owners were prepared to go to win bets, often to the detriment of the poor dogs. Yet in this same chapter, the reader is fascinated and brought to the stage of tears, marvelling at the courage of the dog and the cruelty of the master.

This title in the CANINE LIBRARY. It gives a brief history of the Staffordshire and shows how the breed came up from a fighting dog to the affectionate dog - still courageous - that is kept today by many thousands of enthusiastic owners."

From the 1997 reprint (Beech Publishing House)

"The Staffordshire Bull Terrier" by Joseph Dunn

Joseph Dunn was primarily responsible for getting the breed recognized by the Kennel Club. This book gives tremendous hindsight into the history of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. It also presents many illustrations of the old champions, showing how they have varied in size and shape.

"The Staffordshire Bull Terrier" by H N Beilby

Why am I setting out to write this book? There are a number of reasons; none perhaps by itself provides justification for the attempt, but possibly when taken together they constitute some sort of excuse - I hope so!

The most important to me is that I have a great admira­tion for this grand old variety of Terrier and, since the early nineteen-thirties, have had the good fortune to be closely in touch with that sporting and good-hearted body of enthusiastic men and women who have been associated with the breed for many years-in some cases a lifetime-and but for whose efforts and interest the Staffordshire Bull Terrier might, quite possibly, have ceased to exist. 

"Staffordshire Bull Terriers" edited by Major Count V.C. Hollender

Published in 1952 this book contains a great deal of history and background. Moreover since the original authors were all stalwarts of the breed, their contributions provide a link from the days of the Pit Dog and the modern, respectable, Staffordshire known today.

"Staffordshire Bull Terriers English & Irish" by Shaun Barker

This is a crusading book, one which looks at the much loved Staffordshire Bull Terrier breed, and asks whether the current standards are drifting too far away from the original concept of the breed which should represent agility, fitness and courage. 

"The Show – Stafford Handbook" by Alan Mitchell

This book is aimed at putting into print all the interpretation and filling out of the skeleton which is the standard. This fleshing out has been carried out by word of mouth for generations and the method worked whilst the fancy was a close-knit society representing a minority interest and which used shows as meeting places to discuss the dogs and pass judgement on current trends in various parts of the country. These Parliaments were not for the faint-hearted.

Now, with the Stafford no longer a ‘small’ breed owned by a minority and with people showing and going home the method no longer works and it is time that the ‘secret’ standard was explained, recorded and made available.

For the newcomer to the breed it should offer a base if knowledge not available before. For the experienced and the expert it should provide a reference point to monitor developments, give talking points and challenge thought. It goes on to provide information and opinion on all aspects of showing the breed and joining the K.C. activities to the level chosen by the reader.

The book does not refer to the fighting dog except where it is appropriate and essential to understanding and is never used to justify a breed point since the basic demands of fighting and showing are so different.

An outstanding fighting dog was built as lightly as was commensurate with basic strength and agility. It has to have stamina to fight on for an hour or so if required. It needed the ability to ignore pain or injury in the single-minded purpose of killing its opponent even as it died.

With the show dog the aim is to produce a dog which appears to be strong and agile conforms to a standard and has the ability to move well. The best breeders try to keep the character intact so that it is bomb proof with people.

"The Staffordshire Bull Terrier in History and Sport" by Mike Homan

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

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

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

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

"The Staffordshire Bull Terrier" by W.M. Morley

"The friendly, fearless, sporting Staffordshire Bull Terrier is now the most popular breed of terrier in the Kennel Club's 'league table'. For the many owners and would-be owners, this book is the ideal guide. It gives full information in the delightful character and temperament of these dogs, on selecting a puppy, on management and feeding, breeding and showing; and also covers the breed's sporting potential and its remarkable history. The appendices of Kennel Club registrations and of champions, with their sires and dams, owners and breeders, over to the last 40 years, are of particular value to those wishing to breed and show their Staffords. The author has long and successful personal experience of the breed.”

"Staffordshire Bull Terriers (An Owner's Companion)" by V H Pounds & Lilian V Rant

During the early nineteenth century, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier was bred for the purposes of bull- and bear-baiting. Agile, quick and fearless, he quickly established his reputation for tenacity and courage and was highly prized for his fighting skills. While still retaining the essential character that originally made him famous, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier of today is trainable, affectionate and popular as a family pet and loyal companion. 

In this book, the authors first detail the history of the breed before going on to discuss conformation, characteristics and the British and American Breed Standards. There are chapters on breeding, showing and judging and advice on the nutrition, training and general care of your dog. There is also advice on buying and rearing young puppies and a very useful section on diseases, ailments and first aid. 

Well illustrated with black and white photographs and line-drawings, this complete guide to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier will be of interest not only to the new owner but also to experienced breeders and enthusiasts.

"Celebrating Staffordshire Bull Terriers" by Steve Stone

Although Steve Stone's name sits on the cover, authors from around the world lend this book and its accompanying CD-ROM not only length and breadth but substance.

In alphabetical order, they include Les Aspin, Linda Barker, Candy Beauchamp, Malcolm Boam, Wlodek Cioc, Glenn Consadine, Karyn Dawes, Cheryl Ellicott, George Goddard, Abe Harkness, Jo Hemstock, Sarah Hemstock, Juanita Hobbs, Gerry Holmes, Julie King, Andrea Kitchen, Joe LeBlanc, Squibs Mercier, Terry Mueller, Jason Nicolai, Marlane Parra, Vic Pounds, Jean Richardson, Harry Rodeheaver, Alissa Romaine, Irma Rosenfield, Dr. Ellis Ruby, Sandra Smid, Colin Smith, Carolyn Stewart, Terry Stewart, George Urbanski, and Bob Whittall.

This book also features original illustrations by Marion Field and a generous selection of photographs – most of which have never previously been published – from John F. Gordon's personal albums, courtesy of Joe LeBlanc.

This book not only celebrates the proud history and sheer versatility of the Breed, every word on every page is devoted exclusively to the cause of the Stafford, including the problems encountered by Breed Rescue and the menace of Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) which mindless politicians seem intent on imposing on the dog-loving public in the face of overwhelming evidence of its ineffectiveness.

Tired old generic material (puppy raising, diet, whelping, etc.) has been intentionally omitted.

"Your Staffordshire Bull Terrier" by Steve Bradder

"The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has long been in demand as a family pet, for his reputation as a loyal and loving companion is well established.  His legendary devotion towards children, in particular, has earned him a permanent place at the fireside of Staffanatics.  Yet few may realise that the future of this breed depended upon a successful transition – the one from dog fighting arena to the show ring.  When dog fighting became illegal, something needed to be done to safeguard the future of the Stafford – the answer was “showing”.

In showing terms, the history of the breed surely reached a pinnacle when Champion Domino Flashy Lad won Best in Show at the National Terrier Club Championship show in 1995, the first ever Staffordshire Bull Terrier to achieve this.  Bred and owned by Steve and Julie Bradder, and handled by Steve, ‘Arnie’ has gone on to establish his place in the history books, winning 28 Challenge Certificates and 12 Reserves.

In this book, Steve shares his own methods and his way of doing things – from choosing a Stafford pup to making his debut in the show ring.  Whether you are hoping to raise a well-behaved family pet or, perhaps, a future Best of Show at Crufts, Steve has experienced it all.  Along the way, he recounts moments of humour and of tragedy, all part of being a Stafford owner.  Or should that be, all part of being owned by a Stafford?  Steve still retains the common touch.  Perhaps the secret of his success is that winning is not the most important thing to him.  Of more concern is that the breed remains in the hands of those who will love and cherish it.  The Stafford needs a firm but fair hand, thriving best when he is a valued member of the family.  This is his legacy."

"The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Scrap-Book" edited and compiled by Jack Miller 

"When you first decide to write a book about your favourite hobby, or a thesis for a degree, the first step is to research the subject you intend to cover thoroughly.

Researching a subject first begins by reviewing any previous literature on the subject.  This literature can cover books, articles in magazines, journals and newspaper reports.  If you have original material based upon experiment or experience so much the better.  It should be pointed out however that few books are produced from original material only.

This collection of articles on the Stafford could be the beginning of an excellent book on the breed.  I present them here unabridged, with my own comments added only where necessary.

My choice of material has been to select useful and interesting writings on the breed by well known personalities from the past and the present.  It should be enjoyable to read and useful to the novice, the breeder, the exhibitor, and everyone interested in this wonderful breed of dog from Staffordshire.

Jack Miller      Jarrow    1985"

"Staffordshire Bull Terriers" by John F Gordon (Foyles Handbook)

John F Gordon is not only a great lover of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, but a Crufts and International Judge of the breed. He writes with complete authority on his subject, giving much sound advice to those who are about to purchase a dog, and to existing owners on the welfare and maintenance of their charges. Although written primarily for the novice and pet owner, it is certain that the more experienced breeders and exhibitor will also find it of interest and benefit.

The cover photograph shows Burland Beauty and Desdemona of Hayledore, two Staffordshire Bull Terriers owned by Mr & Mrs Percy Richards.

"The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Owner's Encyclopaedia" by By John F Gordon

This comprehensive work is designed to answer the 1,001 questions asked by new owners of Staffordshire Bull Terriers and to form an easy reference book for novice and old hand alike to all things appertaining to their breed. Today, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is an up-and-coming breed of dog, its popularity increasing year by year as is witnessed by the mounting figures at The Kennel Club.  His worth as a good utility dog, easy to rear and maintain, as a loyal companion and effective guard, honest in his outlook, a trustworthy 'nursemaid' to children, yet tough when the occasion demands, are characteristics which his owners accept as a matter of course.

Mr John F. Gordon, the author, is qualified to prepare this Encyclopaedia by a lifetime of experience in the breed, which he has judged on two occasions at Cruft's. An International Championship Show judge and early writer on the Stafford, he has had two highly successful monographs published and this Encyclopaedia will enhance his already world-wide reputation as an author and acknowledged expert on the breed.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Owner's Encyclopaedia is designed for quick and easy reference. It deals with every conceivable aspect of the Staffordshire - its ancestors, history, early art and literature, antiquities as well as noted dogs and their owners, famous kennels, bloodlines, sport, exhibition and breeding.

The cover photograph, by Sally Anne Thompson, shows the strong, honest head of a Stafford of mellow years.

"All about the Staffordshire Bull Terrier" by John F Gordon

"Today, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is an increasingly popular breed as witnessed by the rising number of registrations at the Kennel Club. The breed was top Terrier entry at Crufts 1983, and looks like maintaining this

major position for coming seasons. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier's worth as a good utility dog, easy to rear and maintain, as a loyal companion and effective guard dog, easy to rear and maintain, as a loyal companion and

effective guard, as a trusty 'nursemaid' to children, yet tough when the occasion demands, are characteristics which have contributed to his popularity and which his owners accept as a matter of course.

John F Gordon, with the experience of many past years to draw upon as a judge and breeder, gives a detailed interpretation of the Kennel Club Breed Standard and offers practical advice on all the important topics

likely to concern an owner, such as breeding, feeding, general management and exhibiting. He also describes the Staffordshire Bull Terrier's colourful history and development."

"Memories of Staffordshire Bull Terriers" by Ed Reid

IN THIS BOOK are many illustrations of the breed's past, and present. In the text are notes on origins and background history.

Hopefully, sound breeding judgment and appraisal will preserve some of this history for future Fanciers - who will surely appreciate this 'legacy'.

"Memories of Staffordshire Bull Terriers & American (Pit) Bull Terriers" by Ed Reid

"DUE TO THE EVER INCREASING POPULARITY of Staffordshire Bull Terriers & American (Pit) Bull Terriers, with more and more people coming into these breeds with the passing of each year, with much demand for specialist information on these dogs, I felt that a book like this was needed from which newcomers could study and learn quickly; aided by its many illustrations and informative articles.

To present a comprehensive viewpoint I invited various distinguished personalities from both breeds to submit material to accompany my own herein. Thanks to a gracious response, I'm enabled to present a unique collection of notes, anecdotes, and photographic material that will, I believe, be much appreciated by all enthusiasts of Staffords and Pit Bulls alike.

If students of these breeds enjoy their perusal of the books contents as much as I have enjoyed compiling it, I'll be satisfied that the task was well worthwhile.

As an owner myself of Staffords and Pit Bulls, knowing the endless pleasure that comes with owning such unique dogs.  Realising also how misunderstood our breeds are by some outsiders, it is hoped that much on the following pages will help straighten the record.

Ed Reid"

"The Staffordshire Bull Terrier" by Dieter Fleig

This book examines the history of the breed from its first origins through to the present day. The breed's unique character is described, together with helpful advice on living with a Stafford. Dr Fleig draws on his wide experience of this inimitable terrier to discuss choosing, training and socialising a pup, feeding and healthcare. A section on showing Staffords gives invaluable information on presenting the breed to its best advantage in the ring. For the expert, there is an analysis of the Breed Standard, which features comments by Stafford expert Mary Pringle. There is also a discussion on line-breeding by Norman Berry, another respected breed authority. Illustrated with stunning new colour photos and useful line-drawings, this updated edition of an established breed 'bible', is a must for all Stafford enthusiasts.

"The Complete Staffordshire Bull Terrier" by Danny Gilmour

"A BOOK OF THE BREED, covering the history of the Staffordshire bull terrier, together with information on breeding, rearing and general welfare."

"The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one of the most popular of all the terrier breeds, with its courageous character and rugged good looks finding favour among a wide range of enthusiasts. The Stafford is descended from a cross between the Bulldog and a native English terrier, with the aim of producing a smaller, faster animal for the sport of dog-fighting, which reached new heights of popularity in the early 19th century.

Despite this historical connection with fighting, the Stafford is a devoted companion dog, and the breed’s kindness and gentleness with children is well known. In this highly comprehensive Book of the Breed, the author traces the history of the prized show dog and companion dog, with a worldwide following. Advice is given on choosing a puppy, training, adult management, and handling in the show ring. The Breed Standard is analysed in detail, illustrated with top-quality line drawings, and there is excellent material on breeding Staffordshire Bull Terriers and starting a breeding programme. Lavishly illustrated throughout, this high-quality book gives the Stafford the recognition it so richly deserves."

"The Ultimate Staffordshire Bull Terrier" by Clare Lee & Joyce Shorrock

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is among the most popular of pet dogs in the UK and the editors have recruited a host of specialists to write the definitive book on the breed. The book includes expert advice about choosing a healthy puppy and raising him to be a loving companion. There is emphasis on the importance of training and socialisation with contributions from top trainers and handlers.

There is also an invaluable chapter on healthcare focusing on preventative care and breed-specific conditions. There is a book for both the novice and

experienced.

"Pet Owner's Guide to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier" by Clare Lee

"The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, famous for its bold and fearless character, is one of the most popular terrier breeds, and this superbly illustrated guide is an indispensable handbook for the caring owner.

Learn all about:- Choosing a Puppy, Socialisation, Basic Obedience Training, Feeding and Exercise, Breeding a Litter.

Author Clare Lee has owned Staffords for more than forty years. She has bred numerous Champions in the UK and overseas and is an international Championship Judge."

"Staffordshire Bull Terriers: A Practical Guide for Owners and Breeders" by James Beaufoy

This book is devoted entirely to the world of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and is intended to examine the breed and explore what it is that makes Staffords so unique. From a humble and often violently cruel background, Staffords have long since emerged to become one of the most desirable and sought-after of all breeds around the world. Their superb temperament and proven devotion and loyalty to family, children and the elderly are universally acknowl­edged attributes that do much for their recognition as a truly credible choice for both family pet and show dog.