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Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a powerful and loving breed that requires minimal grooming. They are active, loyal and known for their love of children.
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Physical Characteristics
- Strongly built, muscular, powerful
- Well-muscled legs with strong, medium-sized feet
- Wide, wrinkled head with pronounced cheek muscles
- Round, dark eyes
- Coat: Short hair fits tightly to skin and comes in red, fawn, white, black, blue or brindle with white
- Medium-length tail carried low
- Height: 14-16 inches
- Weight: 24-38 pounds
- Average lifespan: 11-12 years
Temperament
- Lively, affectionate, loyal, active and brave, smart, persevering
- Interaction with people: Instinctive love for children
- Interaction with animals: May challenge other dogs and pets
- Training: Needs firm training from an experienced owner; may be difficult to housebreak
Medical Conditions
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- L-2-Hydroxyglutaric Aciduria (neurometabolic disorder)
- Ophthalmic disorders (inclduing juvenile cataracts)
- Patellar luxation
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments; needs small yard
- Needs daily walks
Grooming
- Easy to groom
- Average shedder
- Regular brushing will pull out loose hairs
Other Facts
- Also known as the "Staffie"
- Reputed fighting dog in the late 19th century
- Evolved into a companion pet after dog fighting was outlawed in England
Breed History
- Native to England
- Standardized by James Hinks in 1860
- Originally bred for dog fighting in the mid-1800s
- First brought to the U.S. in the late 1800s
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit SBTCA Rescue
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