Staffordshire Bull Terrier Overview

As usual with Bull Terriers, the Staffordshire is the unfortunate product of inhumane and long-illegal dog fighting practices. And, as usual, the breed has an inaccurate and unfair stigma surrounding it. 

What is not usual, however, is that the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has avoided much of the legal baggage attached to this type of dog. While the American Staffordshire Terrier is illegal to own in the U.K., the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is referred to as the “Nanny Dog,” which is quite a difference. Indeed, this is a kind-hearted breed that prefers to avoid combat and instead engage in a bout of rambunctious play and pleasing its owner. 

Grooming requirements are next to none, and they are a generally healthy and long-lived breed. It is a highly adaptable dog, and it prefers the company of its owners. 

Requiring exercise every day, this dog is not for the easygoing. An important note to consider: Staffies are unaccomplished swimmers, so owners should take note of nearby ponds. 

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a very affectionate and trainable dog, although it can be stubborn every once in a while.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier History

As the working class in 19^th century England became bored with public rat-killings, they developed an interest in making their ratters fight each other. After crossing a Black and Tan Terrier with a Bulldog, pit enthusiasts developed a small, fearless warrior that was nonetheless incredibly behaved around humans. 

Their compact musculature and strong jaws became the envy of dogfighters, and the breed soon became the standard. When dog fighting was made illegal, the Staffie had earned a strong contingent of supporters who preserved the newly obsolete dog. Of course the dog was still fought in underground matches, but the majority of fanciers preferred a more legal, less violent approach to supporting the breed. 

Eager to give the Staffie a place in the show ring, aficionados bred the dog to bring out its aesthetic qualities. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1974. Today the breed must contend with controversy, and lawmakers continue their attempts to establish a ban on it. But any owner of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier will contend that the breed has received an entirely bad rap.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Character

Although bred from violence, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a very loving companion, particularly around children. Its U.K. nickname, “Nanny Dog,” comes from its natural preference to protect and care for children. 

It is happy to please its owner, so training is highly manageable as long as the handler is not looking for a player in obedience competitions. 

With the breed’s fighting history, Staffies tend to form strong relationships with humans, making them likely to suffer separation anxiety. In the case of other animals, owners should be wary. 

Before their primary use in the ring, Staffies were ratters, ruling out any connection between the dog and the family hamster. Unless socialized very well, they will likely delight in terrorizing the cat. And while they prefer to avoid trouble with other dogs, they are naturally fearless and willing to defend themselves if threatened. If it lives with another dog, socialization is necessary to prevent scuffles over dominance. 

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are the antithesis of the violent Bull Terrier stereotype. They are an infinitely loving breed that excels in family life.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Care

This breed requires minimal grooming. An occasional firm, bristle brushing and bath will suffice. They do not tolerate cold climates but also have a tendency to become over-heated quickly. They are best suited as indoor pets. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is prone to cataracts, hip dysplasia, luxating patella, and epilepsy. They are also very susceptible to fleas and ticks.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Training

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier requires a dominant owner and needs early and intense socialization and obedience training. They are easily housetrained. It is absolutely crucial that all training of this breed be done in a positive, consistent, patient, and firm manner. They excel in agility and obedience competition and have had success as therapy dogs.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Health

Common Health Issues for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Resources