Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Staffie
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The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a strong, bold, and muscular dog. It was originally bred to fight in England.

Don’t let their history put you off. They are sensitive, tough and trustworthy dogs.  This could be the perfect breed if you want an active addition to your family or household. They absolutely love people and children, they will do anything and everything to give and get affection and cuddles

They need plenty of exercise so as long as you have an active life with time to play outdoors and take them on a good daily walk or hike, they are a fantastic addition to your family. They can cope quite well with apartment/flat living but would be happier with a garden to romp around in. Remember, a bored dog will usually become mischievous, whether nuisance barking, chewing or digging. Ensure they are occupied with jobs, playtime or plenty of exercise to keep them out of trouble.

“Described as a velvet-covered breezeblock with no concept of personal space.”

Staffies love being with you and your family. They are fantastic with children. They are very boisterous when they are young and have boundless energy. Although they have had a bad press, if raised correctly, they are known as nanny dogs and will look after and protect your family until the end. They are very playful and will run around the garden with older kids all day, run riot with a tennis ball or football.

They are very friendly with strangers. They have been bred to be guardians, so they have no fear. If you need them, they will protect you to the bitter end. Their sheer size and reputation would be enough to put most intruders off.

This breed is best kept on its own because its size and fighting could lead to serious injury. They can be known to be dominant with other dogs and animals. Cats and small animals are not advised.

They are fairly intelligent but a little tricky to train. These are powerful dogs. You will need to establish yourself as the top dog early on. Then you will have a lovely well-trained companion for life. Try to keep training interesting and fun for the best results and avoid being harsh with them. Identifying their motivation reward early will get you the best results, and it’s typically food. This is not a dog you can let off the lead at your local park. You really should muzzle them if you do; public opinions are harsh.

Their short hair is low maintenance. They shed moderately all year round, tending to shed worse during autumn and spring as they change their coats. Weekly brushing will be enough to keep it under control.

Staffies are such lovable little weirdos. Their antics and quirky characters will make you laugh every day without fail. They are unlike any other breed. Once you have owned one, you will know that Staffies live by their own rules and behaviour. They are full of fun and want to play, but are very confident, so can easily scare a cautious or timid dog as they have no chill whatsoever. Luckily they make up for it by how dam cute and friendly they are.

Staffie Stats

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was brought into existence in the early 1800s and is a cross between the bulldog of the day and the old English Terrier – a now extinct breed. It was produced with the sole purpose of obtaining a dog with a longer, broader head than the bulldog and also able to combine strength and agility. The early dogs did not have a particular Pedigree because the importance was a game-fighting dog. The miners and ironworkers of Staffordshire began to foster the breed, and the qualities of gameness, intelligence and loyalty were developed.

  • Weight -11kg –17kg
  • Size – 36cm – 41cm
  • They live for 12-14 years

They are known as medium- to large-sized bully breed dogs. They are strong and muscular in build. They love their people and their kids. Check out our guide to Bully Breeds for more info.

Best Trait – Nanny dogs

Worst Trait – Aggressive with other animals

If you are ready to let a Staffie into your life, be prepared to have a newborn with needle teeth. A puppy is hard work and not to be taken lightly. If you buy from a breeder, make sure you can see both parents. They will be a good indication of the size of your puppy.

If you have a space in your heart and your sofa, why not consider a rescue, already have manners, I know you worry they will be a little damaged, but they have so much love to give. Plus you have the added bonus of knowing their temperament and size. You can put that big smile on a Staffordshire’s face!

Staffie Rescues