Each month we will be shining a light on different dog breeds in our series, Dog Breed of the Month. Next up, we look at Staffordshire Bull Terriers. From behaviour to fun facts, keep reading for everything you need to know about this gentle breed.
Why are Staffordshire Bull Terriers misunderstood?
A spokesperson for The Kennel Club, tells Country Living: "Contrary to how the breed is often stereotyped in the media, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a reliable, intelligent and affectionate breed, particularly with children – having earned the nickname the ‘nanny’ dog, and make a wonderful family pet.
"Certain breeds, including the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, can often be favoured as status dogs by irresponsible owners, who train them to be aggressive, and in turn, can perpetuate the mistaken perception of their natural temperament.
"The Kennel Club believes in the principle of 'deed not breed' and that, ultimately, it is the dog's owner and the dog's environment that will have more of an impact on a dog’s behaviour than it's genetics."
Is a Staffordshire Bull Terrier a good family dog?
Yes, they are gentle and affectionate dogs who simply love being part of the family. "All dogs are different and behaviour can vary widely within a breed, depending on a dog's experiences," Claire Roberts, PDSA vet, tells Country Living.
"However, Staffies are generally good-natured family pets if they've had the right socialisation and training - because of their lively nature, they may not be suitable for households with young children.
6 facts about Staffordshire Bull Terriers that prove how great they are
- They have boundless energy, which makes them great for active households
- Staffies are wonderfully loving pets and most owners report just how cuddly they are
- They are intelligent dogs who will learn quickly during training sessions
- The breed is gentle, docile, and always on the look out for fun
- Staffies are reliable and intelligent
- They love being around people and can often suffer with separation anxiety
What problems do Staffordshire Bull Terriers have?
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are generally a healthy breed, but they can sometimes suffer from certain issues.
"As with many pure-bred dogs, Staffies can be prone to health issues including certain skin and eye conditions, elbow dysplasia and seizures," says Claire. "If you are thinking of buying a Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy, we recommend finding a breeder who is a member of the Kennel Club Assured Breeders Scheme - these breeders must follow higher standards."
Always try to adopt a dog, rather than buying new. Don't forget to do your research first — a dog is for life. Read our guide on how to spot an irresponsible breeder.
What is the best owner for a Staffordshire Bull Terrier?
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are great dogs for first-time owners who can give them the care, love and attention they need.
"Staffies are lively and energetic dogs who tend to love the company of their human family. They are more suitable for active households who will provide them with lots of exercise and, like many dogs, they also don't like to be left alone," explains Claire.
"They love playing and chewing so it is best to provide them with lots of safe toys. Staffies are great at jumping so you will need a tall fence in your garden!"
Are Staffordshire Bull Terriers aggressive?
Staffordshire Bull Terries have often had an unjust reputation for being aggressive, but this simply isn't true. According to a 2020 study by the Royal Veterinary Collage, researchers reported no significant difference in the risk of aggression between Staffies and non-staffy breeds.
"They're one of those breeds that has a negative stigma attached to them and one of those is around 'chav culture'," Dr Thomas Fletcher, a senior lecturer at Leeds Beckett University, previously told BBC News.
"You hear stories about dangerous dogs and [people] being mauled and a pattern emerges about the type of breed that's [involved].
"Staffies do have a particularly bad reputation, but it is important to recognise that those we hear about represent the minority of the breed. I think it's as much to do with the owner. Animals are individuals and I think it's very much about nurture over nature."
24 indestructible dog toys for aggressive chewers
KONG Tires Durable Rubber Chew Toy and Treat Dispenser for Power Chewers
This tyre-shaped chew toy has been made from durable rubber, so it's perfect for determined chewers. It also gives owners the chance to fill the inside with tasty treats, too. Available in two sizes for you to choose the best for your breed.
READ MORE: 6 dog games great for training and bonding
Built for durability, this bright red dog toy will offer your four-legged friend mental and physical stimulation. Starting from £9, it's a real steal buy.
Made from hemp and recycled cotton, this rope ring's tough fibres work to clean your pup's teeth while also being a whole lot of fun to play with.
Soft yet durable, this cute grey bear has minimal stuffing and an internal knotted rope skeleton.
One of the toughest dog balls on the market, this sweet 'planet' design has been made with award-winning Orbee Tuff material. Certain to provide hours of fun...
Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this floating fabric toy has a handle and is designed with abrasion-resistant materials for increased durability. Make sure not to forget it on your next beach trip.
This durable rubber mango toy — which can be filled with dog treats — is sure to provide hours of chewing fun. Perfect for small and medium dog breeds.
Keep your dog entertained for hours with this purse-friendly squeaky toy shaped like a carrot. Plus, we love that you can pick this up at the supermarket as you do your weekly food shop or even have it delivered with your groceries.
Give your dog one of their five a day with this sweetcorn chew toy. It has been designed especially for aggressive chewers and is suitable to small, medium, and large dogs in any breeds. We think dogs will love its small sound function.
If your pup is a fiend for peanut butter, you might want to introduce this peanut butter flavour chew toy into their playtime routine. The T-shape allows them to grip it easily with their paws while the raised nubs on it can help keep their teeth clean.
If they prefer the taste of bacon, why not try this double-bend bone toy. It's available in a range of sizes to ensure that your dog doesn't miss out on this tasty treat.
Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden.
This durable wooden stick is great for dogs who love to chew regularly. While keeping your dog occupied for hours, it's also great for their dental hygiene.
Built to last, this fun donut dog toy has been made from high-quality material and will not wear down dogs' teeth.
This bright fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and a practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this!
Made from three strands of heavy duty tightly woven rope, this traditional rope toy is perfect for medium or larger breeds and can withstand some serious pulling and tugging.
This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs. And it also has a tasty flavour to it too.
Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth.
We love this unique toy, which is great for chew sessions and endless fun. Top tip: fill with peanut butter to extend playtime and satisfy chewing instincts.
In a blush pink, this large onion toy is surprisingly durable. Best of all, it's currently on sale for less than £3.50.
Another great option if your dog loves to play fetch, this durable fetch stick toy not only makes it easier for them to spot where their stick has landed when you're out on a walk or a trip to the park. But it also works for all dogs of all sizes.
Looking for a durable rubber frisbee? Well, look no further, as this red style from KONG is perfect for keeping your four-legged friends fit and healthy.
Another great frisbee option is this XL one. It might even be easier for your four legged friend to grip and it's also currently on sale.
Made by Arm & Hammer, this gorilla-shaped toy is infused with baking soda to safely help with bad breath. Add in the fact that it is extremely durable and has a built-in treats dispenser and we can see why so many shoppers have given it five-star reviews.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
