English Staffordshire
Bull Terrier (Staffy)

A little about the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Staffy) - Breed traits

Staffies are a loyal and brave breed renowned for their overly affectionate and loving personality. Informally known as the smiling dog, Staffies are incredibly loyal to their owners and prefer people over other dogs. They are quite an intelligent breed, and are loyal to their family.

 

 

 

Insurance for English Staffordshire Bull Terriers

View our page on insurance for Staffy's to see the common health issues vets describe for Staffy's and what you should be covered for. 

Grooming

Staffies boast a short and smooth coat that comes in various colours, including red, fawn, white, black, blue, or brindle. Their coat can be solid or include white markings. One of the advantages of owning a Staffie is the minimal grooming they require. A simple once-a-week brushing session is usually enough to keep their coat in good shape and remove any excess hair. Additionally, regular nail trimming is important for their overall well-being. With their low-maintenance grooming needs, Staffies make wonderful companions for those who appreciate an easy-care yet affectionate and energetic breed.

Training and exercise

Staffies thrive in a training environment that emphasizes positive reinforcement and patience. Their strong desire to please, coupled with above-average intelligence, makes them quick learners. Short, focused training sessions tend to be more effective, keeping their attention and motivation high. Socialisation is a must for Staffies to ensure they interact well with other dogs and people. These loving and loyal dogs also appreciate plenty of affection and quality time with their owners, which strengthens the bond and promotes a well-rounded, happy companion.

 

A day in the life of "Bailey"

 

I look up at my human and huff. Still no head rubs. I’ve pulled all my best moves; grumbles, foot licks and even head tilts. Nothing. Is it really that hard to get a pat?

My owners ignored me for ten minutes. Ten minutes! The audacity. It’s not like I’m asking for much, just a bit of attention!

I huff and grumble once more, then finish off with a long ‘awoooowowoowoo,’ but still nothing. Time to up my game. I stand up and trot five metres away and retrieve my ball. The human always loves this.

I start to run, always to the right and always passing the flower bush and the water bowl before looping back to face my human. Two barks, then I repeat my loop, all holding my ball tightly.

‘Bailey, shush!’ Not the attention I wanted. I’ve completed six loops. Six! It would normally only take four. I trot closer to my human and rest my head on their leg. They’re still deeply engaged in conversation with the stranger. I get nothing.

‘Arougggh’ I grumble, loudly. Finally, my owner stands, beckoning me to follow as they walk towards the house. I gallop to catch up, tongue wagging as I do.

‘Get inside.’ I obey, and immediately the door closes. Oh no. I begin to whinge and wine and watch my owner walk back to their seat. After a few minutes, I give up and lie down quietly. Then, can it be? My human has stood back up! They’re walking this way!

‘Come on then Bailey,’ my owner says, and I waddle excitedly, wagging my tail and groaning as I leap back outside and join my human. Finally! Their hand rubs my head.  

Please be advised the information provided is purely an indicator of breed traits and characteristics and that within some breeds there can be significant variation.