Also Known As:
Staffy, Staffy Bull, Staffy Dog, Nanny Dog
Area of Origin:
England
Breed Birthday:
19th Century
Breed Type:
Terrier
Personality Traits:
Loving Caretaker, Attentive, Brave, Playful
Related Breeds:
Manchester Terrier, Smooth Fox Terrier, Bull Terrier, Parson Russell Terrier, American
Best Breeds For:
Not for the timid or first-time owner! Needs a consistent, firm, and confident trainer. They’re good with kids, though, but can be too rambunctious for little ones.
Trainability:
Start on day one— the SBT is smart, but also stubborn. Stay patient, firm, and consistent. Follow a schedule, reward good behavior, practice training and you’ll both be happier.
Apartment/House:
They’re happy in apartments as long they’re well exercised or have access to a fenced yard to play. Just don’t leave them outside alone— they’ll miss their people too much!
History
Originally bred in northern England (which includes the town of Stafford), the Staffordshire Bull Terrier was a mix between the Bulldog and the Manchester Terrier and was bred for its “gameness,” an ability and a determination to complete a task. As a result, training and socialization is essential for the SBT. The breed was recognized by the Kennel Club of the United Kingdom in 1935 and then by the AKC in 1974. According to the BBC, today Staffies are the third most popular dog in the U.K.
Good to know
That short (sweet) face means they’re not great at breathing when it’s humid or hot. Limit outdoor time to a few minutes, and always with shade and fresh drinking water. Some Staffs like playing in the kiddy pool, but others don’t like getting wet.
Health and care
Height: 14″ to 16” at the shoulder
Weight: 24 to 38 pounds
Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
Prone to: Cataracts, mast cell tumors, and a metabolic disorder called L2HGA that can result in dementia-like symptoms, are all more common in Staffy Terriers than the general dog population.
Grooming Simple; brush weekly, bathe when it’s needed. They’re not smelly dogs and only shed once a year.
Personality
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a fast, muscular dog who was originally bred for an unfortunate purpose: fighting. The dog, commonly known as the Staffy or SBT, has since become a loyal family companion. Depending on whom you ask, Staffies are often lumped into the generic category of pit bull, which includes American Staffordshire Terriers and American Pit Bull Terriers.
The SBT has a slightly broader face than its cousin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (Am Staff). Compared to the Am Staff, the SBT usually has rose-shaped ears and is shorter in height. When it comes to homeowner’s insurance, some companies may place restrictions on Staffordshire Bull Terriers.
Featured image: Pitbulls make me happy
