Breed group: Sporting

Average weight: males 25-38 females 23-35 lbs

Average height: males 14-16 females 13-15 inches

Colour(s): Black, blue, fawn or brindle, often with white markings

General information: Originating in England, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier was bred for bull, bear, and lion baiting. The aforementioned "blood-sports" were officially eliminated in 1835 when Britain introduced animal welfare laws. However, "blood-sport" proponents began using this breed for organized dog fighting. Today, with their "blood-sport" history behind them, this breed has become a stable and popular family pet.

Temperament: Despite this breed's beginnings, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is renowned today for their reliability as a companion and family pet. They thrive on human contact and are extremely loving, devoted, and loyal. This breed is dependable gentle and reliable with children, and for this reason were nicknamed the Nanny Dog. They are exceedingly protective of their family and make excellent guardians and watchdogs. They are not suited for homes with other dogs or household pets they have not been raised with. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is not recommended for the novice dog owner.

Character: Often referred to as the Staffie, this muscular and stocky breed exudes strength, courage, and athletic ability. They are bold, tenacious, and alert. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a fearless, protective, and determined nature and is extremely agile. Their most distinguishing and striking features are their broad head and expressive face.

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.

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.

Activitiy: Due to their athletic nature, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier needs vigorous daily exercise. It is imperative that they be securely leashed or harnessed in all public outings such as walking, jogging, or hiking. They benefit from off-lead run time in a securely fenced yard and greatly enjoy play sessions with their family. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier will do okay in an apartment dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, companionship, and stimulation.