
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are little balls of muscle that don't know their own strength. They are friendly, affectionate and playful with their owners, and other dogs. Staffys are often depicted as an aggressive breed, but they are loving companions when properly trained.
Where I'm From
Just like their name indicates, these cheeky dogs originate from the English region of Staffordshire. They are the result of crossbreeding between bulldogs and various types of terriers.
Back in the day, Staffys were developed to participate in events known as bloodports where dogs would be pit against bulls in order to bait them. This went on for several years until the activity was finally banned in 1835.
After that, the breed was a favorite amongst clandestine dogfight organizers and, as a result, Staffordshire Bull Terriers gained their reputation as aggressive and dagerous dogs.
It was until the 20th Century when Staffys were seen more as the loving and devoted house pets they really are, and became popular amongst dog lovers.
What I Look Like
Staffys are broad, muscular, well-balanced dogs with stocky bodies. They may be small compared to other Bull Terriers, but these powerful dogs are strong, rugged creatures with incredible physical stamina.
Their short coat is easy to maintain and it comes in a variety of colours such as brindle, red, fawn, white and black. Staffys may also have cute white markings over their face and body.
How I Act
This high-energy breed is known to be highly enthusiastic and hard to slow down. Staffys can be impulsive dogs, and getting them to calm down and relax can be a challenge for owners. If you lead an active lifestyle, a spirited Staffordshire Bull Terrier would be an ideal companion for you.
Their alert personalities make these fearless dogs excellent guard dogs. With a background in bull-baiting, there will very rarely be anything that your brave pet is too scared to face. It is this courageous nature that is partly responsible for the common perception that Staffys are dangerous dogs, when in fact they are gentle and friendly animals.
Not only are these bold creatures, but Staffys are also affectionate dogs that will become loyal members of your family if you give them the chance. Staffordshire Bull Terriers adore being around people and having a bit of a play.
Looking After Me
Training your little Staffy from a young age is one of the most important things to consider when thinking about adopting them as your pet. If your dog begins socializing from early on, it will become easier for them to get used to strange people and dogs in the future. With proper training, your Staffy will no doubt become an obedient and amiable companion.
These restless dogs also like to chew on things a lot, so make sure they have access to toys if you want to avoid any damage to your property.
Grooming should be kept to a minimal. A quick brush, and a bath every couple of weeks should be enough to keep your Staffordshire Bull Terrier nice and clean.
In terms of exercise, make sure you take them out for daily walks to help them keep healthy fitness levels. Staffys are able to keep up with the most active of owners, and make great workout buddies.
Am I the pet for you?
Pros
- High-energy dog that will alert owners of any danger
- Staffys are excellent exercise companion
- They are low maintenance and easy to groom
Cons
- Staffys can misbehave if they are not properly trained
- They like to chew on things and might ruin your property if they have no toys
- Can be defensive if they are not exposed to other people and dogs from an early age
My staffy has dermatitis on his paws
Hi My 2 year old blue staffy has dermatitis on his paws.. its really bad on his right paw he is OCD licking it all the time I feel so sorry for him I want to help relief the itch..My previous vet gave me norcoe cream and I constantly use malaseb shampoo on his paws to try and reduce the inflammation. My vet has told me he is allergic to some sort of grass. I have recently just moved back to SYD from the Gold Coast and Billy was always in the salt water as you can take your dogs to the beach in QLD. I think the salt water kept the reaction at bay but now I cant seem to keep the redness and swelling down on his paw.Is there any natural solutions I can use to help relief this constant itch for him, I have read iodine diluted in water might help??Please help me help BillyRegards Heidi Horan
EAD design a male dog at 4 months
hiWhat is your opinion of desexing a male dog at 4 months? What are the major adv and disadv, apart from reduced risk of sex organ, prostate cancers and escaping and aggression to get to females?What specifically is the risk associated with the longer juvenile period Ito behavior and skeletal and muscle development delays? Will my staffy become tall with little muscle because of it?Love your show, thanks Bev.
Needing Help.
Hi.My Name is Rachel, and I'm needing advice as to what dog would best suit me. I have a physical disability, I can walk and drive a car. I use crutches when I'm outdoors, but when I'm at home a I can walk around without them. I wear a caliper on my left leg. I have always wanted to have a dog as a companion, but I am not sure what breed would be best. My activity levels are ok, but I couldn't say that I am able to go for long walks. I have a park across from me, that is dog friendly. I live alone now, and I am 52. I hope someone can help me.SincerelyRachel Simpson
How to help my dog with anxiety.
Our dog has a phobia of the heating system clicking on and off. It's gotten to the stage where he won't enter the lounge (where the noise is most audible) & sit with us, something he loves doing, he just stands shaking in kitchen. I've looked at a few things like a calming spray, collar etc but I'm just not sure what would be best. Any advice