About your Breed

• Courageous and intelligent


• Loyal, sensitive and affectionate


• Robust and powerful


• Average height and weight: 38cm; 14kg


• Average life-span: 12-14 years

At first the Staffordshire Bull Terrier seems like a contradiction - he looks so tough, but his approach to the human race is loving and all-encompassing. His courage, high intelligence and tenacity are the legacy of the breed's history. And his patience and gentle ways with children are legendary. These virtues, combined with a love of people and a reliable and stable nature, make the Staffie an extremely versatile companion.

• Originated in the early 1900s


• Is a cross bred between the Bulldog and the Old English Terrier


• Originally used for hunting
  

Originally used for hunting large game, such as wild boar, in Roman times they were used for sporting entertainment and were used for bull, bear and lion baiting. As bull baiting became less popular, dog fighting increased in popularity.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers:

• Need plenty of exercise


• Can get over-attached to owners


• Need little grooming
  

As the Staffie is very powerfully built, he needs plenty of exercise on a regular basis for his physical and mental well-being - also to maintain his muscle tone.
Staffies are extremely 'oral' dogs and need a safe alternative to furniture, toys and clothing for their busy jaws. They love to play tug-of-war, but YOU must set the rules and YOU must be the boss.

As their coat is smooth and short, they do not need to be trimmed and they need very little grooming, just an occasional brush and bath.

Eye conditions have been reported in some of the breed. As have luxating patellas - a condition where the knee joint on the back leg slips and causes the dog to limp.

The Staffie is a good companion animal who devotes great affection and loyalty to his owner. However, as he is very powerful it is essential that owners are responsible and train the dog and keep him under control, especially around other dogs.