There are a lot of people who absolutely love Staffies, and can’t get enough of these affectionate, loyal dogs. But there are also those who don’t know that much about the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and want to learn more about them. Maybe you’re looking at Staffie puppies and want to know the ins and outs of the breed before you make a final decision. After all, getting a dog is a lifetime commitment.
Let’s take a look at some of the most interesting facts about this Australian favourite.
- Staffies were developed as a hybrid between bulldogs and terriers
The ancestors of the modern Staffy were used for pit-fighting and other blood sports. These dogs were bred in the early 19th century in an effort to create a smaller, lighter fighting dog that still retained the power and tenacity of the bigger bulldogs.
- Sir Percy FitzPatrick’s book Jock of the Bushveld features a Staffordshire Bull Terrier as the titular character Jock
The book is a true story by Sir Percy FitzPatrick about his travels with his Staffy, Jock.
- Staffies are exceptionally muscular
Most Staffies have a powerful build owing to their bulldog lineage. A Staffy’s head may ‘split’, referring to the split in musculature that may form as the dog gets older. Some Staffies do not have a split head, and it depends on the individual musculature of the dog.
- Staffies love to dig
This is a trait that Staffies have inherited from their terrier ancestors, and any fenced space they inhabit will need reinforcement to ensure that they do not dig out.
- Staffies love kids
There’s a reason why Staffies are also called the ‘nanny dog’. A well-socialised and trained Staffy is gentle and affectionate with everyone, even children.
- Staffies enjoy living indoors
They may look like rough-and-tumble dogs, but at heart they are companion animals. Staffies need their owners and family members to thrive. Leaving a Staffy alone outdoors can result in behavioural problems.
- Surveys have shown that people consider Staffies the ‘waggiest’ dogs
Most Staffies will wag their tails exceptionally hard due to their strong physiques.
- Staffies are long-lived
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a generally healthy breed and is long-lived compared to other dogs. Their average lifespan is between 12 to 14 years.
- Staffies are fiercely loyal to their humans
Owing to their role as companion animals, they form deep bonds with their owners. Staffies are loyal to the end, and are up for any adventure, so long as their chosen human is with them.
- Staffies can be great family dogs
When they’re trained early and socialised properly, Staffies generally end up as gentle, loyal, affectionate, and playful family dogs.
