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The doghouse

If you're worried about your pet's health, please speak to a vet or qualified professional.

Original poster

Thinking about getting a staffy and help, advice or slaps please...

21 replies

ClaimedByMe · 04/09/2012 12:27

Dp has wanted a Staffy for forever I have always been relucant about getting a dog, any dog, but since my mum got one a few years ago I have softened and realised that it wouldnt be that bad and I could actually benefit from having a dog and it will help my anxiety and panic attacks.

We have 2 children, 7&9, 3 cats and 3 guinea pigs, DP works fulltime I am a SAHM.

Are we mad? Would this work? Any advice would be much appreciated!

OP posts:
CakeMeIAmYours · 04/09/2012 13:19

Why is he so keen on a Staffy?

Original poster
ClaimedByMe · 04/09/2012 13:24

No idea, he just likes them, we want a rescue staffy and have registered with a staffy rescue website.

OP posts:
D0oinMeCleanin · 04/09/2012 13:24

What would be so bad about a staffy? They're wonderful dogs and have a really good reputation with small children.

Staffy pups are bonkers, but an older rescue staffy would be perfect. Loads of dogs including staffies here on the good with children section

pictish · 04/09/2012 13:26

I have a soft spot for staffies too. They're so cute with their happy faces. They are good with kids, so it's told.

Original poster
ClaimedByMe · 04/09/2012 13:27

We have researched and I agree that they are wonderful and have a good reputation, I think my main concern is that I will muck it up, I guess I want reassurance that I am not mad!

OP posts:
D0oinMeCleanin · 04/09/2012 13:29

If you make sure to go to a reputable rescue then you'll get loads of support and will not be given a dog who is not suited to your experience and circumstances.

It's good that you have some concerns. It shows you are taking dog ownership seriously,as it should be taken and not just getting a dog on a whim.

TantrumsAndOlympicGoldBalloons · 04/09/2012 13:55

If its a rescue, then a reputable rescue will assess you and your family before matching you up with a dog.

And Yy to staffy puppies being mad, ive got a 6 month old.
Mad doesn't even come close :)

They are great family dogs though, big dog is a jelly around DCs and is normally found sleeping on ds1 feet.

Original poster
ClaimedByMe · 04/09/2012 14:00

Thanks, I am quite excited but a bit nervous at the same time as a dog seems such a big responsiblity!

We have registered with Staffierescuescotland, according to their website they will assess and give us support if we need it too.

OP posts:
Lonecatwithkitten · 04/09/2012 14:01

Keep the wrist bands locked up had to surgically remove 12week old Staffie pup from a team GB wrist band yesterday. By 5.30pm she was screaming for more food. She is lovely, but nothing is safe from her taste buds!

TantrumsAndOlympicGoldBalloons · 04/09/2012 14:03

Mine has a thing about washing up sponges.
He has chewed about 25 of them.

TantrumsAndOlympicGoldBalloons · 04/09/2012 14:05

And yes it's a big responsibility so as long as you are prepared for the time and effort it will take, then you will be fine.
Keep posting here for any advice, keep in touch with the rescue and after a while your dog will be part of the family.

Oh and every staffy I've ever owned or fostered has hated getting wet, and are scared of the dark!

Elibean · 04/09/2012 14:57

Just make sure you ask the rescue for a woofer that is nice to small furry creatures.

Our 25% Staffy (Retriever/other breeds) cross likes nothing more than eating squirrels, rats and mice when out. GPs and cats would not - or rather would - go down well!!

Elibean · 04/09/2012 14:58

He also hates water, and is a bit scared of children Smile

Original poster
ClaimedByMe · 04/09/2012 15:11

Ok, so far I have learned, they hate water (so does my mums Airedale and he is an otter hound Confused), they eat anything and everything, are great with kids any other words of wisdom....

OP posts:
MeerkatMerkin · 04/09/2012 15:15

They are lovely, go for it. :)

Mine got on well with our guinea pigs. Loves my DD.

They have a lot of energy and need a lot of mental stimulation and walks if you don't want them to get bored and prone to chewing (ours did, anyway)!

Absolutely soppy buggers so be prepared to buy a bigger bed. Wink

TantrumsAndOlympicGoldBalloons · 04/09/2012 15:17

Oh yes, mine love sleeping in my bed.

Original poster
ClaimedByMe · 04/09/2012 15:22

Hmm one of the cats sleeps on the bed, it would have to fight her for a space on the bed!

I dont mind the walking, we live on the edge of the city and have miles of farm behind us.

OP posts:
TantrumsAndOlympicGoldBalloons · 04/09/2012 15:25

Oh my big staffy is petrified of horses and sheep as well.

And they both tried to make friends with my antisocial cat, they try and get close and she hisses and scratches. And then they run.

Original poster
ClaimedByMe · 04/09/2012 16:57

I am actually feeling quite excited now, Dp and I will look at more rescues tonight :)

OP posts:
Lougle · 04/09/2012 20:24

Puppy Staffs are nuts Grin

Mine is 9 months old, and has just today conquered his fear of water. Well, I say that. He was biting the water as his feet splashed in it Hmm

They are very, very, bouncy as puppies, too.

TantrumsAndOlympicGoldBalloons · 05/09/2012 05:37

Oh and my staffy puppy tries to attack the wind if it's very strong. He is bonkers-but hilarious.

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