Staffordshire Bull Terrier
A natural with children, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years.
Origin
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier emerged in England in the 19th century. Coal miners living in Staffordshire wanted a small, fast dog that could be used for fighting. They bred the old-style Bulldog with what is believed to be either the Black-and-Tan Terrier or English White Terrier. The emerging breed was first known as the “Bull and Terrier” or “Pit Dog.”
Although they were developed to be fighters, the new breed was found to be adoring of their families and exceptionally gentle with children. Eventually, breeders turned away from developing the Staffordshire Bull Terrier to be a fighting dog.
Size
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier weighs 24 to 38 pounds and measures 14 to 16 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a short, flat coat that sheds moderately most of the time and just needs to be brushed once a week. However, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier will blow their entire coat once a year, and during that time, they will need to be brushed more frequently. Staffordshire Bull Terriers only require a bath when dirty.
Like all dogs, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is strong, but gentle.
Temperament
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier may look intimidating, but this breed is sweet, loving and gentle. In their native England, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is nicknamed the “nanny dog” because they get along so well with children and like to watch over them.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is not a fighting dog. They are happiest when they are with their family and relish playtime. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are warm and affectionate, and want nothing more than to be with people. However, while the Staffordshire Bull Terrier may be highly people-oriented, they do not always get along well with other dogs. They are generally laidback, but will readily respond to any challenge.
Training Needs
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is smart, but willful. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier likes to be in charge and does not respond willingly to commands and training. They do best with an experienced, confident owner. With the right owner and plenty of consistency, Staffordshire Bull Terriers can graduate from basic obedience and go on to participate in agility and flyball.
Activity Level
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is not a highly active dog and would rather lie around the house all day. However, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier needs daily exercise for their health. They should be taken on a daily walk and given time outside to run around and play.
