Staffordshire Bull Terrier: is a Staffie the right dog for you?
First Published: 07/11/2019
Last Updated: 23/11/2023
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are full of love and affection for their owners – although they’re not the biggest fans of other dogs.
Let’s take a closer look at the Staffie.
Place of origin: 19th-century Staffordshire
Staffy life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years
How big do Staffordshire Bull Terriers get? 33 – 41cm
How heavy are Staffordshire Bull Terriers? 11 – 17kg
Colour: Black, White, Brindle, Fawn, Black & White, Brindle & White, Blue, Red & White, Fawn & White, Red, Blue & White
Please note: A dog’s exercise, training/stimulation and grooming requirements can depend on several factors such as age and health. The same goes for ongoing costs of ownership. For advice on one specific dog, we always advise chatting with a vet.
How much exercise does a Staffordshire Bull Terrier need?
Staffies tend to have bags of energy and will gladly accompany their owner on as many as 3 walks a day. As a minimum, your Staffie will need 2 walks a day with some energy-filled playtime in the middle.
They like to dig (they’re Terriers after all), so if you plan to let your Staffie out into the garden, make sure it’s securely fenced off and that you supervise your Staffie as best you can.
Staffies aren’t the biggest fans of other dogs, so it’s best to keep them on the lead when you’re out walking. This characteristic will depend on the individual dog, of course – Staffies are often friendlier than they’re expected to be, although they can be unpredictable and aren’t known to back away from a fight.
Training: how to train a Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Staffies are usually quick learners but they can be stubborn and impulsive at times. An untrained Staffie can take to shredding furniture and digging holes in your garden, so do your best to commence training when your Staffie is young or as soon as you bring them home.
Be firm but kind to your Staffie, use reward-based training at all times and with plenty of patience and dedication, they’ll become perfectly house-trained in no time.
Grooming: do Staffordshire Bull Terriers shed?
When it comes to grooming, you’ll find your Staffie to be a breeze! They moult very little and you’ll only need to brush their short coat once a week to keep it in tip-top condition.
Staffies don’t have much of an odour and you’ll only need to bathe them very occasionally – or if they’ve rolled through something smelly.
Complete your Staffie’s grooming routine with regular tooth brushing, nail clips and ear checks.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier temperament, socialising and ideal home environment
Staffies love people! They’re incredibly friendly, outgoing and famously great with children. If you’re looking for a loyal companion to spend lots of quality time with, a Staffie could be just right for you.
Providing they get all of their necessary exercise, your Staffie will live comfortably in a large house or smaller flat/apartment (in fact, the absence of a garden may even be a good thing!)
Early socialising will help your Staffie to be more accepting of other animals, although you should proceed with caution (more so than with most breeds) at all times.
Cost of owning a Staffordshire Bull Terrier
When considering the lifetime cost of owning a Staffie, remember to take into account:
- Staffie food and dietary needs
- Veterinary care
- Pet insurance
- Kennels or dog sitters
- Regular Staffie grooming costs
- Toys and equipment
Need more info?
For more info on finding the best dog breed for you and your lifestyle, have a chat with your vet.
Find your nearest vet using our Find a Vet page, or speak to a vet online using Online Vets.