Dog Breeds > Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier makes a wonderful family pet and companion. They are moderately-sized breed and popular for its fierceness but are ironically great with children. Although they may seem ferocious and scary at first, they are actually a very loving and affectionate.

Energy Playfulness Intelligence Grooming Popularity

Fascinating Facts

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier originates from England and is a relative of the Bull Terriers including Pit Bulls and American Staffordshire Terriers. This dog is also called a lot of names including “Staffy”, “Staff” and “Nanny Dog” because of its great socialization with children. They were originally fighters because of their aggressive natures which is why they were used for sport and entertainment. Nobles and royals would usually watch these dogs take on fights with bears and bulls which are usually bloody spectacles. However, despite their smaller size compared to bulls and bears, this breed proved to be strong and ferocious in battle which greatly amused viewers. However, this is already illegal today and Staffordshire Bull Terriers are bred for dog shows and to be pets.

Physical Appearance

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are not exactly an attractive breed because of their broad skull, short muzzle with skin folds and burly appearance. They have small ears, distinctive cheeks, prominent muscles above the eyes and a mouth that is more widespread than average. Its neck is short and muscular which further defines their athletic build. They have a short, smooth coat tightly adhering to the body and are available in many colors including black, brown, white, grey, red or a combination of these. This breed usually reaches a height of 16 inches while weighing up to 32 lbs.

Grooming

Grooming is fairly easy in this breed. Since their coat is short, they will only need trimming when necessary and occasional brushing to keep their coat shiny. A wet cloth can also be used to wipe of dirt and loose hair.

Mood

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are very friendly and sweet towards humans but may need more time to socialize with other dogs. Since they are naturally fighters, they might attack other dogs and pets. To avoid this, they must be trained and socialized at an early age. This breed is also well-known for its courage especially when it senses a threat. A great quality of this breed is that they display a calm and mature attitude on regular occasions while exhibiting playfulness when showing affection.

With Children

This breed is very popular and has a reputation for being wonderful with children. Because this breed is one of the friendliest to children, they were also given the nick name “Nanny dog”. This breed is very loving and loyal to their families but show a particular fondness for children which makes them suitable playmates.

Training & Exercise

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are extremely intelligent and are highly trainable. It is suggested that they be trained at a young age because this is the time when they are easier to train. However, watch dog training can be a challenge and is not recommended because they are very friendly towards people and strangers. To maintain their health, they should be allowed to exercise regularly by allowing them to run around, preferably on a wide lawn.

Health & Life Expectancy

They are generally a healthy breed and can live up to 10-26 years. A few health problems have been reported including cataracts and respiratory problems. A melanoma or a dark pigmented patch is usually seen on their tummies because of sun exposure but this is not really a serious health problem that needs medical attention.

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