Pretty Pair of 19th Century Antique Staffordshire Dogs Greyhounds Whippets on Cobalt Bases. 4 inches. Lovely condition. Condition: Excellent given age. Staffordshire potters in England starting in mid-19th century and often depicting Spaniels and other popular breeds such as Poodles, Greyhounds/Whippets, and Dalmatians. After Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in 1840, the family grew to include several dogs, but none were more popular than her favorite pet and constant companion, Dash, a King Charles Spaniel. This sparked a love for this particular breed. Early production Victorian Staffordshire dogs (1840s-1860s) are distinct from later productions (1870s-turn of the century) primarily in manufacturing techniques, quality of decoration, and overall craftsmanship. The transition from more rustic. Handmade pieces to factory produced models marks the most significant differences. In the second half of the 20th century an appreciation for English country and aristocratic themes grew in popularity, sparking a love for related antiques and collectibles. No where was this more evident than in the collection of antique Victorian Staffordshire dogs. It became increasingly common to find Staffordshire dogs for sale in prestigious galleries, antique shops and auctions, and once again these lovely comforters became a go-to piece for homes across the social spectrum. In recent years, the market for antique Staffordshire dogs has experienced a significant revival driven by new interest from younger. Collectors and online decor trends. Interested parties may request additional photos.