Staffies are small dogs with big hearts and equally big personalities. This energetic and affectionate breed has become one of the most sought-after in Australia. They’re noted for their affable and friendly demeanour. Despite not being the biggest dogs, their athletic nature and sunny disposition make them stand out more than most other breeds.
Staffy History
Staffies were developed in the 19th century as a small, agile and powerful pit-fighting breed. It shares a lineage with a number of other bull terrier breeds. Thankfully, the dog bloodsports were eventually outlawed, and the Staffy of today is celebrated more for its gentle nature than its physical prowess. It’s theorised that the breed is a result of crossing a Bulldog with some Terrier variant. The average Staffy has a stocky build, with a body that is longer than it is tall.
Staffy Temperament and Intelligence
Despite their tough-looking exterior, most Staffies are actually little bundles of warmth and joy. Staffies are lovers, not fighters. The Staffy is a companion dog, and thrives in the presence of people. The more time you can devote to your Staffy, the more they’ll be devoted to you.
It’s important that your Staffy puppy be exposed to many different dogs and people from a young age. Properly socialised and trained Staffies are often affectionate and gentle with their humans, and can learn to be friendly towards other pets and strangers.
Staffy Exercise and Training
Staffies are content to spread out on the couch, but that doesn’t mean they’re couch potatoes. They can be energetic dogs, so a minimum of an hour a day should be devoted to exercise and training. Because they’re smart dogs who are eager to please, they respond well to obedience training. However, some Staffies may need additional incentive during training – their intelligence means they can sometimes prefer their own way of doing things.
Staffy Grooming
It’s relatively easy to groom a Staffy since their coat is short and sleek. This single coat means they’ll shed regularly throughout the year, so brushing a couple of times a week to get rid of shed hair and dander is required. Baths can be more spaced out, with a schedule of once every three months being recommended for most Staffies.
Living with a Staffy
Staffies may need more care and attention than other, more beginner-friendly dog breeds. Training must be constant and consistent, they need lots of attention from their humans, and their owner has to be patient and understanding. However, if you can give your Staffy everything they need to thrive, they’ll reward you with loads of affection and loyalty.
