Stocky strong and very muscular, the Staffordshire Terrier or Staffy for short, is one of the breeds referred to as a Pit Bull (usually the American Staffordshire Terrier).
The name is a has many connotations only one of which is generally true.
These dogs have unrivaled courage and power to size ratio.
The Staffy's head is of medium length and very broad with muscular cheeks often giving the dog the appearance of having a big smile.
The head is proportionally quite large compared to other dogs of similar size.
Smallish ears can be either cropped or un-cropped (one would hope the second).
Their usually dark eyes are set relatively far apart.
The body is completely muscled and covered with short stiff easily managed hair.
The Staffys stance appears aggressive largely due to its straight strong front legs being set very wide apart.
The tail is usually medium short, lightly curved up and carried low.
Coloring of the breed is varied and can be any solid or mixed color.
Temperament: The term pit bull which is a carry-over from when the breed was used as a baiting and fighting dog has given the Staffy and undeserved reputation.
We have all heard the stories of out of control Pit Bulls injuring or killing dogs, small children and even an adult.
Restrictions on breeding and ownership of the breed are prevalent around the world.
We must however look further.
These incidents were almost universally the result of brutal treatment or training by thoughtless owners.
Staffordshire Terriers are highly intelligent brave and possess the powerful desire to please their master.
Combined with the dogs sheer power, it is easy for a malicious owner to instill aggression into the dog.
In complete contrast the Am Staffys natural character is very docile and friendly.
They are often so friendly to strangers that they make poor guard dogs despite their sometimes intimidating looks.
It should be noted that many Staffordshire Terriers(particularly the american breed) can display aggressive behavior toward other dogs and animals.
This can be controlled through obedience training plus early and regular socialization with other dogs.
Staffy's have an undying devotion to their family and an almost obsessive need to be appreciated by their master.
It is definitely not a reserved dog, it displays its excitement and affection with vigour.
Care: All sub breeds of the Staffordshire Terrier need a good deal of regular exercise.
Their exercise needs can be met with a simple daily walk or engaging with their favorite ball game in the park.
Pit Bulls are generally easy to train(especially when they are young.
Pay attention to firmly discourage any aggressive behavior in your dog during their first year.
The American Staffordshire Terrier can live outside in temperate climates, but due to its close attachment to family its healthy mental development virtually requires that the dog be allowed to live indoors.
Coat care is refreshingly easy compared to longer haired dogs.
It simply involves very occasional brushing with and stiff brush to remove loose or dead hair.
Known health issues in the breed include canine hip and elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, cerebellar ataxia, hypothyroidism and heart disease.
Having Gas is also a common report as with many bull breeds.
As the breed has far less hair on its stomach, and loves to sun bake, mast cell tumors can prevail on and around the stomach area.
Size and Weight Height: 32 to 42cm (12.
5 to 16.
5 inches) weight: 9 to 17.
5 kg (13 to 38 lbs) Life span: 10 to 15 years