Don't give dog bad name - SSPCA

AN "UNFAIR" reputation for aggressive behaviour has prompted a leading animal welfare charity to brand the Staffordshire bull terrier as Scotland's least-wanted canine pet.

The Scottish SPCA is trying to find new homes for almost 100 "Staffies" that are being cared for at the charity's kennels.

The plight of the unwanted animals was highlighted by Mike Flynn, the SSPCA's Chief Superintendent, who said although the charity had successfully rehomed 185 of the dogs so far this year, the SSPCA was caring for almost 100 more.

He said the SSPCA believed that responsible dog owners are being put off rehoming a Staffie by the breed's association with "status dogs" - animals which are purchased by owners who want a powerful-looking pet to enhance their street credibility.

Chief Supt Flynn said: "Staffies are unfairly tagged as being aggressive or intimidating towards people, but in our experience this couldn't be further from the truth, and the vast majority of Staffies are, by nature, affectionate and loving.

"Recent dog attacks in the media have highlighted that any breed is capable of being aggressive."

However, Chief Supt Flynn added: "The real reason why these incidents occur is some owners do not invest the effort required to train their dog to make sure it is well behaved and under control at all times. Some even encourage and goad their dogs into behaving aggressively.

"We should not be shifting the blame onto an entire breed but addressing the underlying issue of irresponsible dog ownership. The Staffordshire bull terrier is inherently no more aggressive than any other breed of dog. If we don't stick up for Staffies now then this reputation will never go away and it will become even harder to find them good homes."

Chance, a Staffie which is still looking for a home after 18 months in care, is being cared for at the charity's Scottish Borders Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre at Mellerstain.

Debbie Innes, the centre manager, said: "Chance is our longest ever resident and it's no coincidence he's a Staffie.

"Many people think we just put these dogs to sleep if we can't find them a home, but we don't. We will continue to care for Chance until he gets a good home. We won't give up."

Caroline Kisko, a spokeswoman for the Kennel Club, backed the SSPCA.She said: "Sadly, too many people see Staffordshire bull terriers as a status symbol and train it for the purposes of fighting and aggression, without understanding or caring about the responsibilities that come with dog ownership.

"The Staffordshire bull terrier is actually an excellent family pet, often known as the nanny dog because it is so affectionate and good with children."

• Anyone interested in rehoming a Staffie from the SSPCA should call the charity's Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999 or visit scottishspca.org/rehoming.