HEALTH: FIT AND HAPPY

According to Dante, Staffies are normally healthy dogs suitable for a tropical country. However, their short snouts make them prone to overheating.

“In a tropical climate like [that of] the Philippines, the biggest danger of all is the warm weather. Dogs can suffer from heat stroke, just like people. Warmer climates present other challenges for canines, especially for short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds, like shih tzus, bulldogs, boxers, and pugs. SBT is not a brachycephalic dog breed but they could also be susceptible to heat stroke, especially when temperature reach 30 degrees, because of their inability to effectively rid their bodies of excess heat by panting,” Dante says.

“Generally speaking, most experts agree that, for many reasons, it’s always best to keep your dog indoors -- and . . . not to leave him or her outdoors unattended for extended periods of time. Most SBTS are healthy dogs and can tolerate the heat as long as they have shade. In warm or tropical climates like ours, dogs need an area that remains shady throughout the day, even as the sun shifts positions in the sky, along with a fresh supply of drinking water.”

The Staffie can be prone to diseases like hereditary cataracts, the metabolic disorder L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria that can produce dementia-like symptoms, and persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous which causes hazy vision. A reputable breeder will be able to answer questions about the health and hereditary history of a puppy. Tests are also available to see if a puppy may suffer from certain diseases.