Thinking about Staffordshire Bull Terriers as a companion?
Get to know this popular dog breed before you buy!

 

Size
Exercise
Grooming

Height: 36-41cm (14-16 inches)
Weight: Males 13-17kg (28-38 pounds); Females 11-15kg (24-34 pounds)

Group
American Kennel Club: Terriers
The Kennel Club (UK): Terrier
Australian National Kennel Council: Terriers

Lifespan: 12-14 years

Who is the Staffordshire Bull Terrier?

An intelligent, boisterous and affectionate dog, the 'Staff' or 'Staffy' as it is often called loves to be counted as a member of the family and is protective towards children.

Breed history

The breed was developed in England in the early 1800s. Bull terrier breeds were developed to fight bulls and bears but when these sports were outlawed in the mid 19th century, bull terriers were instead turned to dog fighting. The Staffy was specifically bred for 'gameness' and tenacity in the dog fight ring.

As these bloodsports were gradually banned, however, the Staffy's loyalty, devotion to his owner and gentleness with children began to be emphasised in breeding programs. Although it sounds strange that a dog bred to fight should be gentle and loving towards humans, a good Staffy had to be quiet and calm when handled by people in the dog ring, reserving its aggression for other dogs instead. When not in the ring or pit, the Staffy was expected to be trustworthy around people and children - so much so that in Britain it has been called the 'nanny dog' for its gentle protectiveness towards its family.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are related to the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier and, like these breeds, may be the subject of breed-specific legislation (BSL) in some countries or council areas, which restrict or ban ownership of the breeds. However, most councils recognise that although the Staffy may be aggressive towards other dogs if not trained and socialised early, his affectionate and cheerful nature makes him a great all-round family pet, and he has become one of the most popular puppy breeds in the United Kingdom and Australia.

Personality

• Intelligent
• Boisterous
• Loyal and devoted
• Courageous
• Protective

Good with children?

Yes. Staffordshire Bull Terriers show great devotion and protectiveness towards children and have even been called the 'nanny dog' in England.

Exercise needs

The Staffy is an active small dog breed and requires a good daily walk. They can become overheated and distressed on hot days so avoid too much exercise in hot weather.

Health

The Staffy is generally a strong, healthy dog.

Possible health problems

Hip and elbow dysplasia (a disease that can cause lameness and arthritis in the hips or elbows)

L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria (a progressive deterioration of the central nervous system function including epilepsy)

Hereditary cataracts

Good breeders should x-ray or test their dogs for as many of these conditions as possible before breeding, or should avoid breeding from dogs that display the conditions.

Grooming

The Staffy's short coat requires very little grooming and only the occasional bath.

When grooming, remember to check the paws, ears and coat for grass seeds. Also check for any minor injuries and check the teeth to see if they need cleaning.

Ideal owner

The ideal Staffy owner will give their dog early training and socialisation with other dogs and will involve the dog in family activities.

Always take care with the Staffy around other dogs and don't let him become aggressive towards them.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers won't enjoy being left to their own devices in the backyard but will prefer to be around their family.

 

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