Collection: Staffordshire Spaniels

Staffordshire dog figures are matching pairs of pottery dogs that were very popular in Victorian England (1837 to 1901). They were used to decorate mantelpieces, fireplaces and shelves and are often referred to as ‘hearth spaniels’, ‘fireplace dogs’, ‘comforters’ or ‘wally dogs’. No Victorian mantelpiece was complete without a pair of Staffordshire dogs standing guard.

Most are King Charles Spaniels in tribute to Queen Victoria’s favorite dog ’Dash’. Made from earthenware and plaster molds they are decorated with a gold chain and locket with a creamy white base coat. They come in a wide variety of different sizes and colors. Hand painted decoration gives each one its own individuality.

There are also other breeds – Dalmatians, Poodles, Pugs, Greyhounds and even a few cats.

Staffordshire is a county in England famous for its pottery: home to Wedgwood, Minton, Moorcroft and numerous small pottery companies that flourished in the 1800s.