Dangerous dog?

[abstibus]

I met a neighbour this evening who has adopted a young Staffie that belonged to his friend. The friend couldn't take it to SA as apparently it is classed as a 'danger to public health', and the cost of the flight would have been prohibitive.
My very amiable lab/collie bitch and he had a few 'Hello' sniffs, and then the Staffie retreated to a place of safety between his owner's legs.

[starone]

I saw a programme on tv - unfortunately I have forgotten what it was - but I know it was about training dogs and one phrase has remained with me. Right at the end the presenter said 'never forget when you live with a dog, you have a wolf in the house' or words to that effect.

[RATTER15]

That presenter hasnt met are Shi-tzu, Wolf!!! lol lol lol

[starone]

I didn't say he was right RATTER. Just threw the thought into the pool so to speak.

[RATTER15]

I actually remember that presenter saying that, many years ago but cant remember where!

[starone]

The dog across the road (Staffy) escapes sometimes and barks at everyone. No-one likes him because he is quite frightening. However, all I do is say 'What are you doing over here Tyson', in a very firm voice - 'Come on - over home' and he follows me like a lamb. Is it the fear they respond to I wonder? I don't attempt to touch him just speak in a firm voice.

[JB]

So true Ratter! I met an Irish Wolfhound when I was about 7 (and I was quite a small child) - he was an absolute joy and so gentle. Unfortunately, I was at the 'wrong end' of one particularly energetic wag and was literally knocked off my feet!
With regards to staffs - I've got two. My boy looks tough (he's the daftest dog ever!) and will bark to anyone who will listen (chatterbox!) but my girl is a lot calmer and quieter (and looks alot like a seal pup!) so she gets more attention than him from strangers. I love Staffies - and I've never met a nasty one (only nasty owners.)

[Halifaxmum]

A little jack russell was ripped to shreds by a staffie outside a local shop in the middle of the day, just up the road from us, recently. It was tied up outside the shop by a mother with a baby in a buggy. I would never trust that breed.

[RATTER15]

I agree with JB, great dogs! I wouldn't have one due to the fact that nearly every person now owning one is automatically branded a thug, chav, fool, just got a Staffie to look cool etc.

The only problem with Staffies is they can be dog aggressive (aggressive to other dogs) and good socialising skills and training will soon address that problem, other wise I have no problem with them whatsoever.