The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a reputation for being a brave and loyal companion.
In this guide we answer all your Staffy dog questions and explore the history and characteristics of this charismatic breed
You can use the links below for quick answers to our top FAQs or scroll down for a detailed and honest breed review
Known affectionately as the ‘Staffy’ or ‘Staffie’, this gorgeous little dog has unfortunately been the subject of a lot of bad press over the past few years.
But how much of their bad reputation is true?
Are Staffies good pets? And how do you go about finding the right one?
What were Staffies bred for – Staffie history explained
The English Staffy is descended from bulldogs used for bull baiting in the 18th and 19th century.
Bull baiting, bear baiting etc were made illegal in1835 and some of those involved turned to dog fighting instead, with bets being laid on the outcome of fights.
Despite this unpleasant history, these dogs gradually became popular as companions, and in the 1930s were finally recognised by the UK Kennel Club.
Although Staffies made the switch to respectability, and proved themselves worthy of recognition as a good tempered and friendly family pet, there remained a lingering association between the breed and dog fighting, that still persists today.
This is a great shame, as the Staffie has a lot going for him as a healthy and happy family pet.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Temperament
Bull terriers were originally bred for fighting, and there is no doubt that Staffies can be tough little dogs.
Unfortunately the breed have become quite popular amongst those that are only interested in turning this tough side of the Staffies nature into something sinister.
You only have to google “stafforshire bull terrier” to find news reports of dog attacks resulting from encounters of individuals of this breed.
You might be forgiven for thinking that these are dangerous dogs, unsuitable for life as a family pet. But things are not always what they seem, and the truth is somewhat different.
So are Staffordshire Terriers an aggressive breed?
Staffies raised in normal family homes are in fact very friendly, and affectionate dogs.
Let’s be in no doubt. It is possible to make almost any dog of any breed into a snarling, aggressive, and dangerous animal, simply by isolating and abusing it.
It is the staffordshire bull terrier’s great misfortune that it has been misused in this way, by a minority of people.
This breed has become favoured and exploited by, small groups of people that enjoy watching dogs fight, or that wish to use dogs to protect their own illegal activities.
Are Staffordshire Bull Terriers good family dogs
The truth is, that a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, raised in a family environment, socialised and trained, is no more likely to attack a person than any other dog.
On the contrary, these little dogs are friendly, happy, good natured souls that generally enjoy human company.
The downside of Staffies as pets is that their terrier instincts sometimes cause problems with other animal members of the family.
Getting a Staffy and a cat to get along can be tricky, and if you have a resident family cat or small rodent pets you might want to consider a different breed. Or commit to very careful supervision.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Size
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a compact, muscular dog with well proportioned body, broad skull and strong jaws.
Although he doesn’t reach more than 16 inches or so at the shoulder, he can weigh around 35lbs and is powerful for his size.
Staffies are sometimes confused with Pitbulls
What is the difference between a Pit bull and a Staffy?
There is a superficial similarity between the American Pit bull Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Both are broad chested stocky dogs with broad heads and straight muzzles and a very short easy care coat.
The Pit bull is however a much bigger and more powerful dog, about double the size of an average Staffie, and comes in a much wider range of colors.
These are two distinct breeds and only the Staffy is recognized by the AKC
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Health
Staffies are normally healthy dogs.
Although like most breeds, there are some conditions for which breeding stock should be tested, and for which DNA tests are now available, including some inherited eye conditions.
They can also suffer from a hereditary metabolic disorder known as L-2HGA. This can cause seizures, as well as problems moving and behavioral issues.
You can reduce the chances of your Staffy having these problems by getting your puppy from health tested parents.
Both parents should have an eye test from less than a year ago, and be tested as DNA clear for L-2HGA.
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There are currently some reports that some Staffies have overly shortened muzzles and that this predisposes them to overheating. This is something to bear in mind when researching breeders (see below)
How Long Do Staffies Live?
The average healthy Staffordshire Bull Terrier lifespan will be around 12 to 14 years.
Of course there are no guarantees but with good care and little luck you should have your Staffy for a decade or more
Do Staffies shed? – Grooming and care
A Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a wonderfully easy to manage coat. An occasional once over with a short haired bristle brush is all that’s usually required.
Like most dogs, Staffies do shed and may shed quite heavily for a short period once or twice a year.
But compared with many longer haired breeds this is a minor event.
Do Staffies need lots of exercise?
Staffies have plenty of energy and need a moderate amount of exercise.
A brisk 30 minute walk or ball game, morning and evening, will be adequate for most Staffies.
Most will be happy to accompany you on longer walks but bear in mind that some Staffies have a tendency to overheat in warm weather
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breeders
When you are looking for a puppy, finding a good breeder is incredibly important.
The right breeder will be open and honest with you. They will be very familiar with their breed of dog and their requirements. Both parents will be health tested.
The Mommy dog will obviously be a cherished member of the family, and will greet you with a wagging tail and friendly demeanor.
Because of the potential for temperament issues with Staffys you should make sure to meet both parents. The father will probably live elsewhere, so you might need to travel to see him.
But this is the best way to give your pup a good chance of being friendly.
Your breeder will be happy to answer any and all of your questions. They will also ask a lot of questions about you, because they will care where their puppies are going.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Puppies
When you have found the right Staffordshire Bull Terrier breeder then it’s time to wait for your puppy.
Most good breeders have a waiting list, and you may have to put your name down several months before your Staffie puppies litter is even conceived.
Although it might be tempting to go and pick up another puppy rather than wait, remember the importance of temperament and health.
A few months now is a fair price to exchange for years of happiness.
And speaking of price… How much do Staffordshire Bull Terriers cost?
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Price
The cost of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy varies depending upon where you live, and who your breeder is.
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Staffordshire Bull Terrier price in the USA ranges widely from $1,500 – $2,500.
In the UK you can expect to pay £600 to £1,000 for a Staffordshire Bull Terrier pup.
Remember that the cheapest Staffy puppy is not necessarily the best one. Breeding puppies costs a lot of money if you do it right, and a puppy from the right breeder will probably have a higher price tag.
Remember that compared to the cost of a dog over his lifetime, the cost of the puppy is actually relatively small.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Rescue
Another great way to get a Staffordshire Terrier is from a rescue society.
Very sadly due to their bad reputation and the nature of some of their owners, these lovely little dogs often end up in need of a new home.
Should I Get A Staffordshire Bull Terrier?
Free from the most serious kinds of conformational defects that blight so many other breeds, Staffordshire Bull Terriers can be a good choice for a family prepared to make a commitment to socialise, and train their dog thoroughly.
And to provide him with regular exercise.
His coat requires little attention, and he is a relatively healthy, active, and long lived dog that should provide his family and friends with many years of pleasure.
Do you have a Staffy? Why not let us know all about him in the comments section below!
References and resources
Abramson C et al. 2008 L‐2‐Hydroxyglutaric Aciduria in Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Packer et al. 2015 Impact of Facial Conformation on Canine Health: Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. PlosOne
This guide to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has been revised and updated for 2018
Craig says
We had our Staff Lou Lou from a rescue centre in 2013. She has simply been the most loving adorable loyal and loving soul I have ever met. She watches me with sad eyes going to work in the mornings and absolutely bounds at me when I get back. We have a family with children and not once has she ever so much as growled at the kids. She is simply part of our family.
ScottH. says
I have a 3yr old staffy named Niko, he is the first one that I have owed and had gotten him knowing absolutely nothing about this breed! I wont say that any of my dogs in the past were bad or anything like that, but hands down Niko is the best dog that I have ever had. He is just such a great dog in all aspects of life! I wouldnt trade him for the world. I couldnt possibly be more satisfied! Niko is 100% perfect to me
Myla says
My family and I grew up eith dogs. Up until 6 months ago, I wanted to rescue a dog so to have company for my elderly parents. So, 6months ago we all went to the shelter and rescued a 4yr staffy. He was said to be a stray and was obviously abused but he looked so happy when we got him.
Till this day, he has the whole family memorize!!! Everyone says he’s a handsome boy!
We are so happy we rescued Leo!!!
He brings join to the my family 😊
Alicia says
Our family is still grieving our beloved Zeusy Zoo. We never had a dog that we adored and loved more. He was extremely affectionate, fun loving and determined. Found in the middle of a road on a cold wintry night, our family welcomed him not knowing he’d steal our hearts forever. The 5 short years we had him, we’re filled with cuddles, laughter and adventure. Anyone who had the privilege of meeting him, was turned into a Staffordshire dog lover. Their fears or preconceived thoughts of his breed we’re forever changed. R.I.P. our dear Zeusy. Run free until we meet again on the other side!
Christinne says
One of my fave dog breed. Its cliche, I know, but theyre simply ANGELS.
Karyn says
I have my 5th staffy now, couldn’t have any other type of dog, I got my first one in 1992.
Jay says
I just got a 3 month old staffy female she is a joy to have in my house she lives to sleep between me and my wife and just loves to be cuddled.
Luisa says
I’m looking for one of these angels to be part of my life. I’m 65 years old I just want these angels so I can love one and this angel can love me back. If I die before this angel I will leave her my condo and that should be enough to make sure she has the best life in the world
Callie Mitchell says
Just committed to a 2nd blue staffy female [14weeks] as a forever friend for our 1st blue male [3 yrs]. We let him do the picking, ya thats right- He choose her, he knew it was going to be his friend for companionship when people are away, to help relieve people from the attention he so desires. Week 1 i was uncertain if such a young pup was maybe too young but now at week 3 they’re inseperable. Bonding better each day each task and its been so awesome to watch as for more we’ll see if they breed but family is complete now. Glad for both these staffys they’ve grudged at times but quickly over it n quick to console, give love and appreciate me every moment or every day. BEST DOGS IN THE WORLD. THANK YOU ZUES AND ZENA
glenys oversby says
I have just bought myself an AM Staffy, she is female and is now 6 months old . She is the most lovable and friendly dog, has a very strong attitude but just have to cuddle her and she does what I want . She will be extremely loved
Gillian Scott says
I have a girl called Chilli, she’s about 13 and a half. She’s the sweetest, cute and gentle girl ever. Toilet training her she was a bit stubborn (I remember even though it’s all those years ago) but once we got there she’s never had an accident since. She did have an issue, needing a TPLO surgery years ago so make sure they don’t get too chubby as it puts more pressure on their joints and it can be a congenital issue for some of them so I was told by the specialist vet. I’d have this girl in my life 50 x over – I adore her!
Annette Strydom says
Hi, my staffie is 14 years old, could be a bit older, she wines a lot, does not want to be alone, also a bit blind and deaf, he still loves walking but arthiritis bothers sometime. I love my baby to death, when is the right time to make a desicion to put him down. He howls outside simetimes when we are not home, feel so sorry for him. At night he gies outside about 3 or 4 times and then wines again, sometimes think he has alzheimers, dont know what to do.
William says
Sounds so much like our Staffy! She passed away about a month ago. She gave us so many great years so we felt that we were fully obligated to put up with her senior issues. She was 15.5 years old but had to put up with the wigning and in and out in and out for a couple years. Being deaf probably didn’t help her mood. Good luck with your dog and I’m sure she’s so happy to have you!
Maureen says
I have a 6 month old female staffy and honestly the bad stories about them are horrid as all are different its the way they are brought up my staffy stays in house with 2 cats and she absolutely adores them and knows the difference between and adult and child.. only thing is her biting coz shes still a puppy she doesnt play bite me but she does with other people she knows and doesn’t do it to strangers.
Katie says
I was surprising my husband with his very first puppy. The breed i was searching just wasnt working out and now we know why. We found our staffy at the animal rescue. I’ve had dogs my entire life and this is by far one of the best! He is the kindest, happiest, most gentle dog i know. He is strong but loving. I’d get 10 more if I could. The only thing I’d suggest is Do Not get one if you’re not willing to play. They are very energetic and need to be exercised. But our Bear is by far the coolest breed I’ve come across. If you have the chance to even meet one do so!!
Jo says
We’ve got a staffy cross. She’s 13 weeks old. Within a week of having her she sit’s and stays, no toilet accidents in the house. She is great with children, new situations, other dogs, our existing cat (who has never met a dog), car rides, having a bath, when we eat she sits in her bed, I could go on forever. She is a lovely pupster with so much love. Everyone who has met her says how amazing and lovely she is. I can’t ever imagine life without this bundle of joy.
Tony says
Never had a staffie before dont get her for another 5 weeks but cant wait.didnt think i would have another dog .but looking to it sooooo much.
George says
Hi i have a staffy she will be 12 on the 23rd of may her name is amber she is such a good dog and very loving ive had her since she was 7 weeks old i dont think i would have any other dog
Julia says
I had one called Amber she got to 17 yrs, lovely dog now we got albie who’s nearly 2 staffie/boxer Cross
Annette Strydom says
Hi, how did she die or did you put her down and why? Mine is 14 years now, wines a lot and does not want to be alone, dont know what to do?
suzana says
Hello.. i got a one year old Amsatff form a family that didnt want her as their son left the country and she was his….she is very spoiled and active she wont listen to any command except sit..i dont know this kind of dogs and any thing on the web is about puppies..any advise pleasae..i feel lost..!!
thank you.
suzana
Joanne Avery says
if you find out tell me I am in the same boat lol im at my wits end x
Annette says
Lots of treats,patience and repetition. Of course and praise :). It takes time but don’t worry they are pretty smart. I also suggest getting your pup used to nail trimming/grinding early. My pup runs to me to get her nails done lol. She’s 5 now though. Gl you got this! “Patience and treats”
Cat says
I’m about to get my first staffy, a rescue puppy 9 weeks old. I can’t wait to start on this adventure. I have found puppy school and obedience school, now I just need to talk my boss into letting me work from home 5 days a week for a few months instead of my usual 4 days.
I’m calling him Mack and we are going to have a great life together.
Rod says
Was it difficult to get an AmStaff puppy at a rescue place? Was it just coincidence they had one?
-Rod
Jo says
We have a 6 month old Staffy bitch…also called Harley. She is beautiful. She is our second Staffy. When our first Staffy died last year we could not live without this beautiful breed of dog in our home for long. They are sooooo loving! Lots of licks and kisses and the most beautiful face and smiley mouth. They need minimal maintenance and only moderate exercise. It is amazing how many people love this breed and accept that the bad press they have had is all to do with the owner and not the dog.
Catherine says
This is totally tru Jo Says…
It’s all about how u raise them & treat them, Their Not Bad?Dogs What~So~Ever…
If u give them a good & Luv’n environment then that’s what u get back from them but if ur mean & keep’em isolated then that’s what drives them to become mean an aggressive towards pep’s,kids & other animals…???
So raise’em the right way they Dam sure have the right to be respected & luv’ed & not be mistreated nor beat’n on,
They Have Feel’n’s To & All They Want Is To Be Luv’ed & Cared For…
??Enough Said On That??
Thkz For Listen’n To My Comment & May U’all Have A Blessed Day ???????????????❣️?
Angie ROBINSON says
My Harley is 1 next week, best dog ave ever had, he is clever, Friendly and everyone loves him, all say how handsome he is
Jen Phillips says
I have 9 staffies right now with 5 for sale as they are 3 weeks old. I love my dogs so much! They go on car rides, travel to families out of state, and love to hike with us. They form a dog pile around us on the floor and are very gentle with my 5 yr old. Sweet, strong, and laid back, these dogs fit right into lives. They also love my lab. She really gives them a work out!
yvette says
where do you live? im in Arizona. Do u have pictures?
Angela LaValley says
How do you get your staffie used to car rides and when can I take her to a doggie park? Shes still so little her collar doesn’t even fit her yet 🙁 i think mine is no older than 6-8werks old
Sally Holmes says
Hi I’m not sure about the rest of the world but the UK don’t do dog park until puppy is 12 weeks old and has had all the jabs