Staffordshire Bull Terriers - Overview of the Staffy Breed

By Dan Fletcher

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is an affectionate and intelligent dog which is very good with children whilst also being an excellent watch dog with a physique and bark which will intimidate any intruder. It is an extremely loyal, trustworthy all purpose dog which is strong and brave.

History of the "Staffy"

The medium sized Staffordshire Bull Terrier was originally bred as a ferocious fighter in England and was used for bull baiting and dog fighting until both of these pastimes where outlawed. As a fighting dog the Staffordshire would be tended by it's owner between rounds, this loyalty towards humans is still apparent in the breed today. Much like the Bull Terrier it has Bulldog blood in it's makeup which gives it a look of broad-chested immovability.

Description and Temperament

The Staffordshire is a substantial, muscular and well proportioned dog with a short dense coat coming in a range of colours. They generally grow to a height of 14-16 inches with the males weighing from 13 to 17 Kgs and the females from 11 to 15Kgs. The coat may be: red; fawn; black; blue; brindle or any of the these with white. The Staffordshire is usually well loved in it's own family circle and displays a great deal of loyalty and affection in return. It is a strong dog and needs firm consistent training and early socialising with other dogs to curb its instinct to fight with other dogs.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a very people friendly breed of dog, they are not overly wary of people in almost any situation and are always happy to meet new people.

Caring for Staffies

The smooth short-haired coat of the Staffordshire is easy to groom and only requires occasional brushing with a firm bristled brush. Staffordshire Bull Terriers require lots of regular exercise but should be kept under tight control in public places unless the dog has proven it can interact with people and other dogs. The Staffordshire has no special feeding requirements but care should be taken not to overfeed the dog particularly in its later years when it will exercises less.

The Staffordshire is relatively free of genetic problems although some may suffer from cataracts. They may be subject to breathing problems and can easily become overheated in hot weather.

Dan Fletcher is the owner of PuppiesSale.org, a site dedicated to puppies, with articles, puppies for sale, Staffordshire Bull Terriers for sale, and more.