A Staffy’s Heart is Bigger Than Its Bite: Here’s Why

Even though the Staffy has a fighting history and is built tough, he’s actually a darling dog that loves companionship. This super smart breed enjoys being your best mate and gets on well with kids too. In other words, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier can be an ideal companion for singles, couples and families.

Despite the Staffy’s loving character it’s often stereotyped as aggressive. If you’re already a Staffy mum or dad you probably ruthlessly punt for this breed’s reputation to be updated. This article will help you on your quest – share it with friends and family and spread the word on this furbulous breed’s good nature.

If you’re here because you’re thinking of buying or adopting a Staffy, then you’re also at the right place. 🐾

How does the Staffy story start?

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier lineage is traceable to the 1800s. Its story starts in the Black Country of Staffordshire in the England Midlands where it was first used in bear and bull baiting.

Bulldogs + Terriers + Black Country of Staffordshire = Staffordshire Bull Terrier

(how to make a Staffordshire Bull Terrier)

Once bull and bear baiting was made illegal, dog fighting started gaining popularity. This bloodsport gave rise to a series of new breeds bred specifically for the ring. Bulldogs and Terriers, for example, were mixed, giving rise to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier we know and love today.

Are Staffies aggressive?

This sweet dog often gets a bad rap because of its history of dog fighting. But in truth, he is good-natured. That said, the Staffy – like any dog – can become aggressive when not well trained or socialised.

In 1935 the Staffordshire Bull Terrier was admitted to the English Kennel Club but to this day misconceptions follow this breed around. Generally Staffies have wonderful temperaments…

People often say a dog’s bark is bigger than its bite. When it comes to the Staffie, his heart is bigger than his bite!

In fact, in the early days they were often bred in cramped conditions with large families. Despite these tough circumstances the Staffy remained easy-going with kids and adults alike. That’s why they’re often called ‘nanny dogs’.

Teach your Staffy puppy these puppy training tips or take them to a good puppy training school. And if you’re bringing home an adopted dog (bravo!) who’s a little traumatised, also consider a pet behaviourist to help settle them in sooner.

Staffy dog style

Staffy dogs are muscular robust dogs. They have broad stocky chests and square jaws and snouts. Their fur coats are short, sleek and shiny and come in lots of colours – from black to red, fawn, white, blue and brindle.

Here are fast Staffy facts:

Are the Pitbull and Staffy the same?

No, but this question is asked frequently around the world. Although there are some common features between the Staffordshire Terrier and Pit Bull – namely the shape of their head and their size – each is its own breed.

Watch this video that highlights the key similarities and differences between these two pooches:

Staffy personality

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is energetic and engaged. They’re not the type who thrives without your loving attention. They’re the ideal breed for experienced dog owners who will be kind but firm.

Staffy dogs need love and attention so don’t leave them outside alone all day because they need to spend time close to family members. Although they may not seem like it, they can thrive as indoor dogs and can even make good apartment dogs as long as they get ample walks and playtime.

Staffies and kids

Although Staffies are good with kids they still need supervision playing together. Teaching kids and dogs to understand one another’s boundaries and needs is important in keeping a Staffy. Speaking of kids, read about a Staffy that broke the Aussie dog birth world record with 22 puppies!

Staffies and other dogs

This breed probably won’t enjoy the company of other dogs. For cats the situation is even less appealing because a Staffy may view them as prey and go after the chase. For these reasons it’s a good idea to always walk your Staffy on a leash.

Staffies on the chew

When your Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a puppy they will (like all dogs) need to chew! Be sure to help them through this mouthy phase by reading our puppy teething guide and getting them lots of good chews. Besides chews, your little one will love toys throughout their lives.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier health

Although Staffies have fairly good health bills, like most purebred dogs they’re prone to certain conditions. With a bit of health planning (and a good pet insurance plan) you can keep your pup right as rain. Here are some ailments you should be safeguarding your Staffy from:

• Skin. Staffies often suffer from allergies. Like French Bulldogs, Beagles and Labradors, this breed is prone to sensitive skin. Read about dog skin conditions for ways to help.
• Eyes. This breed can be prone to eye conditions such as cataracts.
• Joints. Be sure to have your vet keep an eye on your pup’s joints as luxating patella and hip dysplasia in dogs can affect this breed.
• Bloat. Canine bloat can be fatal and unfortunately is quick to develop. Speak to your vet to ensure they identify any early warning signs and can share tips to avoid it.

Soft landings for your soft-hearted dog

In addition to regular check-ups, a good diet and daily exercise, having a dog insurance plan goes a long way to keeping your dog safe and healthy. It helps you pay for the bills you can anticipate but also those unexpected ones.

If your pet has an accident or serious illness that requires hospitalisation, non-routine vet visits, medicine, surgery and more, your plan helps cover your bills. That means you can think about your Staffy while your insurance takes care of the rest.

Did you know you get one or more months of FREE dog insurance or cat insurance when you buy your plan with PD Insurance? Click below to find out more.