Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Summary
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier — affectionately called "Staffie" or "Stafford" — is one of the most beloved dogs in all of Great Britain. Developed in the 19th century in Staffordshire, from the crossing of bulldogs with local terriers for the old bull and dog fighting, it was gradually transformed (after the prohibition of such practices) into an excellent family dog, maintaining its imposing musculature but gaining a remarkably docile temperament. The FCI standard describes it as "courageous, fearless, and totally reliable."
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Medium
- Height (male)
- 35.5–40.5 cm
- Height (female)
- 33–38 cm
- Weight (male)
- 12.7–17 kg
- Weight (female)
- 11–15 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- short, smooth, hard hair, lying very close to the body
- Common Colors
- red, fawn, white, black, blue; with or without white; brindle in any combination; black-and-tan or liver are undesirable
Temperament & Personality
The Staffie is a dog with a notoriously affectionate temperament — it was nicknamed "the nanny dog" in reference to its genuine tolerance and gentleness with children. It is exuberant, playful, very loyal, and needs a lot of human contact. It can be dominant with other dogs, especially of the same sex, and early socialization is essential. With the family, it is absolutely devoted.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60–90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Very low
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Chiari malformation
- Congenital myotonia
- Hereditary cataracts
- Hip dysplasia
- L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria (L2HGA)
- Recommended Health Tests
- Hereditary cataracts genetic test (mandatory)
- Hip evaluation
- L2HGA test
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- For First-Time Owners
- Not recommended
