Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Popularly known as Staffie, a muscular dog of great strength, intelligence and loyalty. He is a descendant of Bull and Terrier crosses.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed overview

Staffordshire Bull Terriers, also known as Staffies, are friendly, energetic, and affectionate dogs that make great family pets. They are known for their love of children and their playful nature, and require a moderate to high amount of exercise and play time to keep them happy and healthy. They can adapt to apartment living, but require daily exercise to prevent boredom or destructive behavior. Proper socialization and training is key to ensuring that they get along well with other dogs and that they do not display any aggressive or destructive behaviors. Overall, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a loyal and loving companion that can make a great pet for the right family.

Height:
Weight:
Life expectancy:

What To Expect When Caring For a Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Grooming

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a low-maintenance breed, and their short coat requires little grooming.

They will shed their coat once or twice a year, and regular brushing with a bristle brush or slicker brush can help to keep shedding under control.

Bathing should be maintained at all times necessary, but not too frequently to avoid stripping hair off necessary oils.

Exercise

Due to their muscular build, Staffordshire Bull Terriers require regular exercise to maintain good health.

In general, they need a moderate amount of exercise daily and thrive on activities that allow them to expend their energy and use their muscles.

They enjoy walks, runs, and playing games such as fetch and tug of war with their owners.

Nutrition

For optimal health and development, Staffordshire Bull Terriers require a well-balanced diet with the right mix of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and essential nutrients.

It’s important to feed them a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs and provides them with the energy they need to stay active throughout the day.

Like all dogs, Staffies should have access to fresh water at all times and should not be overfed to avoid obesity.

Health

Overall, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are largely healthy but can develop hereditary health issues, especially if breeding has been careless.

The breed is prone to cataracts, hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and skin allergies. They are relatively easy to groom, and regular exercise can help prevent obesity.

Training

Staffies are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training methods.

Early socialization and puppy training classes are a great way to ensure that your Staffie grows up to be a well-behaved and obedient dog.

They can be stubborn at times, but with patience and consistency, they can learn a wide range of obedience and agility training commands.

Discover the joy of unconditional love and loyal companionship by adopting a dog today!

Open your heart and home to a furry friend eagerly waiting to become your loyal life companion. By choosing to adopt, you are giving a deserving dog a second chance at happiness and supporting the fight against pet overpopulation.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Traits & Characteristics

Staffies usually weigh between 13 and 17 kg and are between 35 and 40 cm tall at the shoulder.

They have a broad, well-defined head, and their ears are rose or half-pricked in position.

Their eyes are dark and round, and their strong jaws are undershot. They have a short, smooth coat that is easy to maintain.

For show purposes, a perfect Staffordshire Bull Terrier should exhibit an impression of great strength in a small package.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Staffordshire Bull Terriers (a.k.a. Staffies) are known for their affectionate nature towards their human family members, often described as "nanny dogs" due to their tendency to form strong attachments to children. They crave close physical contact with their owners and enjoy snuggling or cuddling up on laps. This breed truly loves to love.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Staffies are great with kids of all ages thanks to their playful and energetic nature. However, as with all breeds, small children should be supervised when interacting with dogs and taught to treat them with respect. Staffies have a high energy level and love to play, so they make great companions for active kids.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Staffies tend to be dog-friendly, although some may display aggression towards other dogs. Early socialization and proper training is key to ensuring your Staffie gets along well with other dogs. Staffies are known for their "stubborn" streak, so consistent training and socialization is important to prevent any confrontations with other dogs.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Staffies are generally friendly with strangers, although they can be wary of unfamiliar people. Proper socialization is important to help them feel comfortable around strangers and prevent them from becoming fearful or aggressive.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Staffies are known for their playful and energetic nature. They love to run, jump, and play, and require plenty of exercise and playtime to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive. They make great companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Staffies are alert and vigilant by nature, but they are not typically used for guard or protection work due to their friendly and sociable nature. They may bark to alert their owners to potential intruders, but they are not aggressive towards strangers.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Staffies are adaptable to many living situations, including apartment living, as long as they receive plenty of exercise and play time. They are known for being resilient and can handle changes in routine or environment relatively well. However, like all breeds, they may become stressed or anxious in new situations if they are not properly socialized and trained.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Staffies have a short, smooth coat that sheds minimally year-round, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers and those who prefer a clean home. Weekly brushing will help to remove any loose hair and keep their coat shiny and healthy.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Staffies are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short, sleek coat requires minimal brushing and they only need to be bathed as needed. However, it is important to keep their nails trimmed and teeth clean to prevent dental issues and discomfort.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Staffies are not known for excessive drooling or slobbering, making them a good choice for those who prefer a neat and tidy home. However, like all breeds, they may drool on occasion if they are excited or anticipating food.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Staffies are a medium-sized breed, typically weighing between 25 and 35 pounds and standing 14 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. They are solidly built and muscular, with a short, smooth coat.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Staffies are high-energy dogs that require plenty of exercise and play time to keep them happy and healthy. They love to run, play fetch, and go for walks. Daily exercise is important to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive indoors.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Staffies require a moderate to high amount of exercise and play time to keep them happy and healthy. They love to run, play, and engage in active games with their owners. Daily walks, games of fetch, and other activities are recommended to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive indoors.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Staffies are not typically used for specific working tasks, although they make great companions for those who enjoy dog sports and activities such as agility, obedience, and nose work. Their friendly and sociable nature also makes them good candidates for therapy and assistance work.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Staffies do not typically have strong hunting instincts, although some may display a prey drive towards smaller animals. Proper socialization and training is key to preventing any negative behaviors towards other animals.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Staffies are high-energy dogs that have a strong physical stamina and endurance. They are able to maintain high levels of activity and require plenty of exercise and play time to keep them healthy and happy.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Staffies are generally healthy dogs, although they may be prone to a few health issues such as hip dysplasia, skin allergies, and eye problems. Regular vet check-ups and proper care can help to prevent or manage these issues.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Staffies have a tendency to gain weight if they are not properly exercised and fed a balanced diet. It is important to monitor their weight and adjust their diet and exercise routine as needed to prevent obesity, which can lead to a variety of health issues.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Staffies can tolerate cold temperatures, but they should still be provided with adequate warmth and protection during extreme weather conditions. Their short coat does not provide much insulation and they may become uncomfortable or even hypothermic if left outdoors in very cold weather.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Staffies can tolerate hot temperatures, but they should still be provided with adequate cooling and hydration during extreme heat. They are prone to overheating and heatstroke, so they should always have access to shade and water when outdoors.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Staffies can adapt well to apartment living, as long as they receive plenty of exercise and play time. They are relatively small dogs and do not require a large living space. However, they do have a high energy level and will need daily exercise to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive indoors.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Staffies have a moderate tendency to wander or roam if they are not properly exercised and supervised. They should always be kept on a leash or in a secure fenced area when outside.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Staffies are somewhat sensitive dogs that may become stressed or anxious in new situations if they are not properly socialized and trained. Harsh or negative training methods should be avoided, as they can lead to fearfulness or aggression.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Staffies can tolerate being left alone for short periods of time, but they are social dogs that thrive on human companionship. They may become anxious or destructive if left alone for extended periods of time and may benefit from having another dog or pet for company.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Staffies are not known for excessive barking, although they may vocalize if they are excited or want attention. They may also bark to alert their owners to potential intruders, but they are not typically vocal dogs.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Staffies are intelligent dogs that require mental stimulation and engagement to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive. They enjoy games, puzzles, and training sessions, and excel in dog sports and activities such as agility, obedience, and nose work.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Staffies can make good pets for novice dog owners, as long as they are willing to put in the time and effort required for proper training and socialization. The breed can be stubborn at times, so consistent and positive training methods are recommended to prevent any behavior issues.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Staffies are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also be stubborn and independent at times. They respond best to positive reinforcement-based training methods that focus on rewards, not punishment. Consistency is key when training a Staffie, as they may try to test their boundaries and push their luck if they sense weakness in their owner's resolve.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers (a.k.a. Staffies) are known for their affectionate nature towards their human family members, often described as "nanny dogs" due to their tendency to form strong attachments to children. They crave close physical contact with their owners and enjoy snuggling or cuddling up on laps. This breed truly loves to love.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Staffies are great with kids of all ages thanks to their playful and energetic nature. However, as with all breeds, small children should be supervised when interacting with dogs and taught to treat them with respect. Staffies have a high energy level and love to play, so they make great companions for active kids.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Staffies tend to be dog-friendly, although some may display aggression towards other dogs. Early socialization and proper training is key to ensuring your Staffie gets along well with other dogs. Staffies are known for their "stubborn" streak, so consistent training and socialization is important to prevent any confrontations with other dogs.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Staffies are generally friendly with strangers, although they can be wary of unfamiliar people. Proper socialization is important to help them feel comfortable around strangers and prevent them from becoming fearful or aggressive.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Staffies are known for their playful and energetic nature. They love to run, jump, and play, and require plenty of exercise and playtime to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive. They make great companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Staffies are alert and vigilant by nature, but they are not typically used for guard or protection work due to their friendly and sociable nature. They may bark to alert their owners to potential intruders, but they are not aggressive towards strangers.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Staffies are adaptable to many living situations, including apartment living, as long as they receive plenty of exercise and play time. They are known for being resilient and can handle changes in routine or environment relatively well. However, like all breeds, they may become stressed or anxious in new situations if they are not properly socialized and trained.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Staffies have a short, smooth coat that sheds minimally year-round, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers and those who prefer a clean home. Weekly brushing will help to remove any loose hair and keep their coat shiny and healthy.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Staffies are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short, sleek coat requires minimal brushing and they only need to be bathed as needed. However, it is important to keep their nails trimmed and teeth clean to prevent dental issues and discomfort.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Staffies are not known for excessive drooling or slobbering, making them a good choice for those who prefer a neat and tidy home. However, like all breeds, they may drool on occasion if they are excited or anticipating food.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Staffies are a medium-sized breed, typically weighing between 25 and 35 pounds and standing 14 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder. They are solidly built and muscular, with a short, smooth coat.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Staffies are high-energy dogs that require plenty of exercise and play time to keep them happy and healthy. They love to run, play fetch, and go for walks. Daily exercise is important to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive indoors.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Staffies require a moderate to high amount of exercise and play time to keep them happy and healthy. They love to run, play, and engage in active games with their owners. Daily walks, games of fetch, and other activities are recommended to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive indoors.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Staffies are not typically used for specific working tasks, although they make great companions for those who enjoy dog sports and activities such as agility, obedience, and nose work. Their friendly and sociable nature also makes them good candidates for therapy and assistance work.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Staffies do not typically have strong hunting instincts, although some may display a prey drive towards smaller animals. Proper socialization and training is key to preventing any negative behaviors towards other animals.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Staffies are high-energy dogs that have a strong physical stamina and endurance. They are able to maintain high levels of activity and require plenty of exercise and play time to keep them healthy and happy.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Staffies are generally healthy dogs, although they may be prone to a few health issues such as hip dysplasia, skin allergies, and eye problems. Regular vet check-ups and proper care can help to prevent or manage these issues.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Staffies have a tendency to gain weight if they are not properly exercised and fed a balanced diet. It is important to monitor their weight and adjust their diet and exercise routine as needed to prevent obesity, which can lead to a variety of health issues.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Staffies can tolerate cold temperatures, but they should still be provided with adequate warmth and protection during extreme weather conditions. Their short coat does not provide much insulation and they may become uncomfortable or even hypothermic if left outdoors in very cold weather.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Staffies can tolerate hot temperatures, but they should still be provided with adequate cooling and hydration during extreme heat. They are prone to overheating and heatstroke, so they should always have access to shade and water when outdoors.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Staffies can adapt well to apartment living, as long as they receive plenty of exercise and play time. They are relatively small dogs and do not require a large living space. However, they do have a high energy level and will need daily exercise to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive indoors.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Staffies have a moderate tendency to wander or roam if they are not properly exercised and supervised. They should always be kept on a leash or in a secure fenced area when outside.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Staffies are somewhat sensitive dogs that may become stressed or anxious in new situations if they are not properly socialized and trained. Harsh or negative training methods should be avoided, as they can lead to fearfulness or aggression.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Staffies can tolerate being left alone for short periods of time, but they are social dogs that thrive on human companionship. They may become anxious or destructive if left alone for extended periods of time and may benefit from having another dog or pet for company.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Staffies are not known for excessive barking, although they may vocalize if they are excited or want attention. They may also bark to alert their owners to potential intruders, but they are not typically vocal dogs.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Staffies are intelligent dogs that require mental stimulation and engagement to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive. They enjoy games, puzzles, and training sessions, and excel in dog sports and activities such as agility, obedience, and nose work.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Staffies can make good pets for novice dog owners, as long as they are willing to put in the time and effort required for proper training and socialization. The breed can be stubborn at times, so consistent and positive training methods are recommended to prevent any behavior issues.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Staffies are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also be stubborn and independent at times. They respond best to positive reinforcement-based training methods that focus on rewards, not punishment. Consistency is key when training a Staffie, as they may try to test their boundaries and push their luck if they sense weakness in their owner's resolve.

Similar breeds

Filters:

History of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are a breed that developed in England in the 19th century. They are descendants of the Bulldog and Terrier crosses.

During 1800s, Bulldogs were crossed with various Terrier breeds to create a compact and muscular dog that was suitable for bull and bear baiting, as well as dog fighting.

Later, when blood sports became illegal, Staffordshire Bull Terriers found their way as beloved family pets. They made their way into the show ring with the breed's first club being established in 1935.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Puppies

Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppies are energetic and lively. They are easy to train and make great family pets.

When purchasing a Staffie pup, it’s important to buy from a reputable breeder and ensure that tests have been carried out for common health problems found in the breed.

Like all puppies, a Staffie pup needs to be socialized early to ensure they grow up to be a well-behaved and obedient dog.