The Staffordshire Bull Terrier – Meet The Breed

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier or “Staffie” is a British breed of short haired terrier. With short hair and a stocky build they originated in the Black Country, an area of central England on the edge of Birmingham. Originally bred for blood sports such as bull baiting and dog fighting which were outlawed in 1835 they are now a very popular family pet. It wasn’t until 1935 that the Staffordshire Bull Terrier became a recognised breed by the Kennel Club.

We cannot talk about the Staffy without addressing the unfounded and erroneous reputation they have for aggression.

Are Staffordshire Bull Terriers Aggressive?

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are no more aggressive than any other breed of dog. They are know to be exceptionally loyal and this trait, in the hands of an irresponsible owner, can be used to develop aggressive, or any other, behaviour. That is the real problem.  As the Staffie was once a fighting dog they are still used for this purpose. Of course dog fighting is a cruel and abhorrent activity and has been illegal since 1835 but very sadly it still goes on. Because of this The Staffordshire Bull Terrier as a reputation amongst disreputable people who consider them to be a status symbol. The greater the aggressive nature that has been bred into the dog the bigger the status. This puts dogs that have been bred and trained to be aggressive in the hands or irresponsible people which inevitably leads to , I’m sorry to say, incidents where innocent people are bitten and innocent dogs have to be destroyed.

For more information about aggression in dogs why not read our blog: Managing Dog Aggression

Do Staffordshire Bull Terriers Make Good Family Pets?

Generally yes! As a rule they are gentle, affectionate dogs who love to be around people. Whilst we do not advocate ever leaving a dog and child unsupervised The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a well know affection for Children. The sad fact is that there are literally thousands of Staffies in rescue centres and they do not fare well as they need human contact. What makes this worse is that because of their reputation they can be difficult to re-home.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier Characteristics

Life Span: 12 – 14 years

Temperament: Fearless, Reliable, Intelligent, Affectionate, Bold, Loyal, Courageous

Dog Breed Group‎: Terrier

Height‎: ‎Female: 33–38 cm, Male: 36–41 cm

Weight: Female: 11–15 kg, Male: 13–17 kg

Appearance: Stocky and of a muscular build with a strong jaw.

Coat: Short haired and comes in a variety of colours – Black, White, Brindle, Fawn, Brindle & White, Black & White, Blue, Fawn & White, Red & White, Red, Blue & White

Fun Fact: Due to their muscular jaw The Staffordshire Bull Terrier often looks like he’s smiling.

lf you are thinking about a canine addition to your family then perhaps you will consider looking to re-home an unloved Staffie. Visit www.staffierescue.co.uk to start your journey.