The REAL Staffie

While Staffords often mellow into steady, calm and dependable dogs by adulthood (3+), any excuse to get excited and many elderly Staffords will turn into giddy puppies again - this little dog was born to have FUN!

A considerable number of staffies will retain their puppy-like characters well into their pensionable years!

Often bouncy and boisterous in their youth, Staffies are essentially big dogs in very compact little bodies- think "mini-bulldozers" and you're on the right lines. Staffords (like all terriers) can have strong characters, often accompanied by an impulsive, fun-loving, hedonistic streak. A firm but fair, calm and consistent leader, who means what they say, is a must for this breed. Like any terrier, they will gladly take charge if you allow it!

Staffies are generally obedient dogs, who are desperate to please, though you do sometimes have to ask two or three times before they hear you! Training classes are highly recommended - to teach self control, to help you bond and to reinforce your position as leader. Expect your Stafford to be top of any training class - this dog is a real teacher's pet and will do anything to impress you! Note that Staffords do not respond well to harsh punishments - they are highly sensitive souls and may shut down if training is aversive. Utterly devoted to their humans, Staffords will work hard to please, especially if food is involved! They simply HATE to be ignored and crave attention so lavish praise, treats and attention for the good, and use theatrical silent treatment for the bad.

Staffords are often described as 'velcro' dogs: most will insist on following you everywhere - even to the loo. Get used to a wet nose bumping into the backs of your calves as you move about the house. Physical contact is a must for most Staffies, so you may find your one sitting quietly on your foot if your lap is unavailable.

Staffords are prone to suffering from separation anxiety if they are not used to being on their own, so care should be taken to build confidence in being left and to create positive associations, whilst gradually increasing time spent apart from owners.

The History of Staffords

Staffies can and do exist peacefully with other animals in the home. Many Staffords live in multi-dog households and get on brilliantly with the other animals in the house. Some even live with cats or chickens, although due to their terrier roots, not all Staffords are safe around small furries.

If Staffords are socialised carefully and regularly from a young age and given lots of positive experiences with other dogs, the overwhelming majority will grow up to be friendly, well socialised adults who are good with other dogs.

It must always be remembered however that the Stafford's origins predispose some- though by no means all - to be reactive towards other dogs (to varying degrees). This is particularly true of those that have been poorly socialised or attacked by others during puppyhood.

Generally speaking, the breed's history and its bold, fearless nature, means the Stafford is no pushover with other dogs. Though the breed is not quick to pick a fight, Staffies will stand their ground if challenged. For this reason, it is sometimes recommended that Staffords are separated from other dogs when unsupervised. A responsible Stafford owner will also exercise caution when allowing off lead exercise in public areas, especially if there is potential for conflict with other dogs in the vicinity.

Whilst many Staffords enjoy the company of other dogs, there will always be some who just do not like other dogs and will need to be the only dog in the home.

It is important to note that reactivity towards other dogs is totally unrelated to aggression towards humans - there is no evidence to suggest that one leads to the other.