Staffordshire Bull Terrier
One of the most pupular breeds in the country and in the BorrowMyDoggy community is the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. A big fan of cuddles and spending time with humans, the Staffie is all muscle and heart. Whether you’re thinking of borrowing one or getting your own, we’ve pulled together lots of fun and interesting facts you should know about the breed.
What is a Staffordshire Bull Terrier?
Not to be confused with the Bull Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier (or “Staffie”) is a mid sized short haired dog and one of the most popular terrier breeds in the UK. The Staffie’s coat could be pure white, black, blue, red, fawn or shades of brindle; or any of these mixed with white.
The breed was originally developed as a fighting dog in Staffordshire from a mix of bull and terrier types, with breeders focusing on creating a strong, skilful dog. Fortunately, dog fighting was outlawed in England in the early 19th century by the Humane Act. Staffies are now commonly seen as a companion dog breed who are very loyal to their owners.
The American Staffordshire Terrier is another distinct but similar breed registered by the American Kennel Club in the early twentieth century.
How much exercise does a Staffordshire Bull Terrier need?
Despite their muscular physique, The Kennel Club recommends that these energetic dogs have up to an hour of exercise a day. Staffies have great stamina and are very active dogs but love a good snuggle when the occasion calls for it. Extra walkies and playtime is will always be welcomed with open paws!
“Prince is full of energy and loves walks in the woods and playing catch with his tennis balls. He's great at giving cuddles and can always be relied on for giving a warm welcome to whoever walks through the door.” - Gudrun, Owner of Prince
What is the temperament of a Staffordshire Bull Terrier?
As The Kennel Club says, and as Staffie owners everywhere will attest to “with the human race, he is kindness itself, and his genuine love of children is well known.” They can sometimes be wary around other dogs, but more often than not, the Staffie is a loving and loyal dog who adores human company and hates being alone.
“Peggy is a very affectionate, characterful doggy who loves meeting new people. She absolutely adores children. At home, Peggy's favourite things are back/butt scratches.” - Ellen, Owner of Peggy
Are Staffordshire Bull Terriers easy to train?
Staffies are intelligent dogs and can be trained well if you are committed and consistent. As with so many breeds, the Staffie can display selective hearing when distracted and some owners prefer to keep them on the lead. A dog harness may be preferred as Staffies are typically quite strong due to their muscular build.
“He was very well trained by his original owner and will sit, stay, lie down and give you his paw whenever you ask. He also forgets he is quite a large dog and loves to sit on your lap when he gets the chance.” - Melanie, Owner of Ollie
That being said, here are a few funny quirks that some of our members’ pooches have:
Elaine, Owner of Poppet
“If you take her to your home overnight or stay here you *can* put her under a blanket on her own bed or a sofa, but she would prefer to sleep with you. Under the duvet. In this circumstance the command you may need to know is "budge up."
Lydia, Owner of Hazel
“Hazel will talk to you in a strange, but hilarious goat yodel when she's really happy. She never steals food, but she does like to sit up on a chair to be at the same level as everyone else - to join in the conversation, of course.”
Most common Staffordshire Bull Terrier names on BorrowMyDoggy:
- Bella
- Lola
- Roxy
- Buster
- Ruby
- Rocky
- Bailey
- Alfie
- Max
- Bruno
BorrowMyDoggy member, Noel signed up with his Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Princeton and matched with not one, but two local borrowers - Vanessa and Isla. Noel says: “Princeton has so much more personality thanks to BorrowMyDoggy”
You can read his full story here.
High paws to our lovely community for letting us share these facts about their Staffies. Paws crossed you found them helpful :)
Looking for the pawfect Staffie to join you on a walk? Or would you like your Staffie to make a new friend? Why not sign up to BorrowMyDoggy today.
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