The Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier (not to be confused with the American Staffordshire Terrier), is the British “bull & terrier” breed. While they share some similarities to their American cousins, they are an entirely different breed unto themselves.

Loving and devoted to their owners, they have cultivated a following of owners who would never own any other type of dog. Their loyalty is paramount, they will often follow their owners like little shadows, even going so far as to follow them up onto the couch or bed! Great with children, they are both gentle as well as patient. When raised right, they have extremely stable temperaments. Many people are surprised to learn how placid they are with their families, mainly because of their intimidating appearances, but they have been true family dogs since the breed was first created. Do not let these descriptions make you feel as if Staffords are lazy or sluggish, however. Despite their overall stable demeanor, they still have a lot of energy which needs to be burned through exercise.

They also have quite a bit of determination to them, which they will exhibit in many different forms. For example, they have a stubborn side which might come out when you ask them to do something they do not want to do. This determination also shows itself when/if another dog were to start a fight with them. Most Staffords will not back down to a challenge. Because the original purpose of the breed was dog fighting, many still retain this fight drive. For this reason, it may be difficult to house a Stafford together with another dog, especially two intact males. It can be done, but it is best if he is allowed to grow up, as a puppy, with the other dog. Even then, there are no promises. Staffords also might have problems living with cats or other small animals because their prey drive is quite high.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier should never be aggressive to a person, except perhaps in the rare occasion of a stranger threatening their family. Nor should they be shy or scared when out and about. It is very important to socialize your dog as a puppy so that when he grows older, he will also grow into having an ideal temperament. Although they can be quite protective of you, they are usually not so protective of your property. In fact, because Staffords tend to love people so much, some will welcome a thief right into your house!

Highly intelligent (albeit with the stubborn streak), Staffords can be rewarding dogs to train in obedience. Agile and spry, they are usually up to most challenges. Therapy work, agility, going-to-ground, competition obedience, CGC, conformation and flyball are just a few of the activities you can enjoy with your dog! When training, Staffords can be impulsive and will keep you on your toes. This impulsivity is related to their intelligence. Curious by nature, they might try different things just to “see what happens”. It’s best to have a sense of humor.

While growing up, puppies in this breed can be very mouthy, both with you as well as anything they can get their teeth on. Teach them at a very early age that they are not allowed to put their mouths on you at any time, and they should learn fast. They may not learn so fast when it comes to chewing up other things (furniture included). Keep an eye on them whenever you are able, and keep them crated when you cannot watch them. Eventually they will grow out of this stage (although they may continue to destroy their own toys for a lifetime). Looking for the perfect crate for your Staffordshire Bull Terrier? Check out the Petmate Vari Kennel to keep them comfortable and secure – https://amzn.to/3B3CUE6

As adults, Staffords have the type of energy that athletic people can manage quite easily. Although they do need to be taken for walks, hikes and romps on a daily basis, they are often calm enough in the house to lay down and watch TV with you, preferably while chewing on a toy such as a Benebone – https://amzn.to/410F5TG   People that are less inclined to be athletic themselves – or who just can’t be bothered to give a Stafford the exercise he needs – will probably become overwhelmed with the excess energy of a dog who hasn’t been allowed to burn it off.

It is worth noting that the Texas heat can be too much for some Staffords, especially darker dogs whose coats will trap in the heat. Never leave a Staffordshire out in the yard all day, especially in the summer. Make sure he has access to shade (and perhaps even a shallow kiddy pool) on hot days. Ideally, let him have access to the house. A Stafford should never be an outside-only dog in any circumstance! It is also worth noting that some Staffordshires are escape artists. Not only is a 6 foot fence recommended, but you may also want to secure the bottom (from digging) as well as the top (from climbing). Keep any deep pools fenced off – Staffords cannot swim.