Staffies/horse owners

[TheoryX1]

Sorry about the title, but we have just acquired a rather sweet staffie. Never in a million years did I think I would end up with one, and its rather a long story, but I certainly did not wake up this morning think I am going to have a staffie by the end of this evening, but I seem to have one now!

Anyway, first of all I am sure there are staffie owners on here, so first of all any advice on owning and caring for them will be appreciated. I have had dogs before, GSDs, so know how to deal with dogs etc, plus I was married to a professional dog trainer before I met my current OH. Havent had one of these though. Also, are they good with horses, as he will be going up to the yard when he has settled in with us. Our horses are used to dogs so no issues with horses themselves.

The poor little lad was poorly treated and is rather thin, but he is just so sweet and loving and also extremely well trained. So any advice or help would be hugely appreciated.

 

[Maisie2]

T there is another very recent thread about Staffies with lots of helpful info. although I don't think much of it related to horses. I've never had a Staffy so sorry I can't help, although I've had lots of different dogs with our horses and never had any problems with them (even the Dalmatians ). Good luck with your new boy - he's a lucky dog and how about a photo

 

[Luci07]

Lovely to hear you have rescued a little staff! I have 3 who come to the yard, and same rules apply as to all dogs. They have all had to be introduced to the horses and learn respect. Each one was introduced once I was pretty sure "leave" was well established and they first got to see horses in the school, then an easy horse in a field, then gradually built up. Did take a well aimed dandy brush with my boy staff at one point but he got the message. Youngest one hacks out now safely as well (other 2 can't for various health issues they have). Staffords are not sit out of the way dogs, they do want to be quite closely involved with their humans so you do need to set the boundaries you feel comfortable with. Mine do get on the sofa and bed but that is my choice. They (when well) are highly energetic , bright and entertaining. They are prone to skin conditions as are very thin skinned (so start building up that coat collection), are very stoical (so there will no whinging if they are hurt, not always a good thing). A staffie also has a memory like an elephant so never ever let your new boy get involved in a fracas, despite any well meaning people telling you to let them sort it out. Don't. Once a stafford has been attacked, they then can get defensive and you don't want that. Do wear him out energy wise as well and you will have a calmer happier dog. Do expect a cuddle monster who will adore you!

Finally, as you now an ambassador for this breed please never rise to anyone elses rudeness. It happens from time to time. Comments such as shouldn't that dog be muzzled (answer no, never attacked another dog). That dog is on the dangerous dogs list ( it isn't). Last time I met an incredibly ignorant man who was so very rude, I did ask him just where he had collected his manners from as they so non existent and he was so ill informed..and exited..