Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Read our comprehensive guide to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, including information on predisposed health issues, exercise needs, family friendliness, grooming, history, overview & temperament.

Dog

17 Oct 2023

History of Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dogs

Staffordshire Bull Terriers have an interesting yet gruesome history that can be traced back to the 19^th century. Back then, Staffies, as they have affectionately become known, originated in England and were the gladiators of the dog world. With their muscular and agile bodies, they were bred to fight, and their ancestors were English Bulldogs. Today, thanks to great breeding and their natural affectionate nature and their willingness to please, they are loyal family pets that make excellent companions and guardians.

What to expect when caring for your Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Common Staffordshire Bull Terrier Health Issues: What breed-related health issues could you encounter as a Staffie owner?

Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous – This is a genetic eye issue that can compromise your pet’s sight.

Eye Anomalies – Juvenile cataracts are common with this breed and can occur at any age.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia – This occurs when the joints are malformed and if left unchecked it can lead to mobility issues in the future.

How Much Grooming do Staffordshire Bull Terriers Need?: The coat of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is short, smooth and sits close to the body. This means they are very low maintenance dogs when it comes to grooming and upkeep. Brush your pet’s coat once per week and bathe your pet as needed.

How Much Exercise do Staffordshire Bull Terriers Need?: If you own a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, you must be prepared to commit to two 45-minute walks per day. This breed thrives on off-the-lead walks and lap up as much exercise as you can give them. They also make excellent walking or jogging partners. This breed will become destructive if not exercised sufficiently and if you are looking for a lazy lap dog, this is not the breed for you.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Personality Traits

What to expect from your Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Let’s take a deep dive into the temperament of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. This breed is naturally powerful and muscular and as a result, there is a common misconception that Staffordshire Bull Terriers are aggressive and intimidating. In truth, this breed’s temperament is the exact opposite. As long as a Staffie is well socialised and properly trained from an early age, they are excellent companions for people and other pets. They tend to be protective over their families and for this reason make great guard dogs.
Are Staffordshire Bull Terriers Family Friendly?

How will they behave around my family?

Yes, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is playful and docile and therefore makes a superb family pet. As long as a Staffordshire Bull Terrier is well socialised and trained, they make excellent playmates for children. This breed’s nickname is the nanny dog and it refers to their gentle and friendly temperament around children. Lively and excitable, supervision is essential when your Staffordshire Bull Terrier is around small children as this breed can knock over a child when whipped into an excitable frenzy.

Key Facts Summary
Size:
14-16 inches
Weight:
11kg-17kg
Temperament:
Fearless and Loyal
Lifespan
12-14 Years
Average Cost:
£1148-£1531