Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Great Britain, Bull type Terriers
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 36–41 cm
- Weight
- 11–17 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Affectionate
- Courageous
- Strong-willed
- Loves people
- Playful
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a muscular, compact terrier from the English Midlands, developed from bull-and-terrier stock. It has a broad head, strong jaws and a short, smooth coat in colours such as red, fawn, brindle, black and blue, often with white. It is strong for its size and has become a popular family companion.
Temperament
Affectionate, courageous and people-loving, often good with children. It can be strong-willed and may not tolerate other dogs well, so early socialisation and training matter.
Exercise
Needs daily vigorous exercise, such as walks, play and tug games. It is strong and enthusiastic, so use a sturdy harness or lead and supervise around other dogs.
Grooming
Short, smooth coat that needs just a weekly brush. Wipe it over with a damp cloth after muddy walks and check the skin now and then.
Care & wellbeing
Keep weight lean, and check ears, teeth and skin. Short coat and face mean it can feel heat, so avoid exercise in warm weather. Provide chew toys, as it is a strong chewer.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 14 kg adult- Water
- 560 ml–840 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 810 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Developed in the English Midlands from bull-and-terrier crosses, originally for working and for pit sports in the past. Today it is a sturdy, muscular companion known for devotion to its family and enthusiasm. It can be strong and needs good socialisation.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hereditary cataracts
- Hip dysplasia
- Skin allergies
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Eye tests
- Hip scores
- DNA test for L-2-HGA
Not every Staffordshire Bull Terrier is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Staffordshire Bull Terrier right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Staffordshire Bull Terrier get?
Adult Staffordshire Bull Terriers typically stand about 36–41 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 11–17 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Staffordshire Bull Terriers live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Staffordshire Bull Terrier need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Staffordshire Bull Terrier need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Staffordshire Bull Terriers easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Staffordshire Bull Terriers shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Staffordshire Bull Terriers good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Staffordshire Bull Terrier live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Staffordshire Bull Terriers have?
The breed can be prone to hereditary cataracts, hip dysplasia, skin allergies. Not every Staffordshire Bull Terrier is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Bull type Terriers
- Internationally recognised
- 1954