Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Male: 12.7-17 kg, Female: 11-15.4 kg
35.5-40.5 cm at the shoulder
12-14 years
United Kingdom (Staffordshire)
About the Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smooth-coated dog of great strength for its size. Muscular, active, and agile, they possess a broad head and a distinctively short foreface. Despite their tough exterior and history as a 'bull-and-terrier' breed, they are famously known as the 'Nanny Dog' in their native UK due to their gentle and patient nature with children. They are characterized by their 'Staffy Smile' and a wagging tail that rarely stops. In Australia, they consistently rank as one of the most popular breeds due to their adaptable nature and compact size. They are remarkably courageous and intelligent, though their tenacity means they require consistent training and socialisation. They thrive on human companionship and are often described as 'velcro dogs' who prefer to be involved in every aspect of family life, whether it's a hike or a movie night on the couch.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the ring, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier displays a 'powerhouse' silhouette, characterized by a deep brisket, well-sprung ribs, and a wide front. Their movement is powerful and agile, showing drive from the hindquarters with an economy of effort. The head is a focal point, featuring a broad skull, pronounced cheek muscles, and a distinct stop that gives them their characteristic expression.
In Australia
The first registered Staffordshire Bull Terriers arrived in Australia in the early 1950s, with the first recorded registration in Victoria in 1952, according to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of Victoria.
Bred For
Originally developed in the 19th century from crosses between the Bulldog and various Terriers for bull-baiting and later dog fighting; however, they were quickly refined into loyal companion dogs and versatile family guardians.
Temperament
Affectionate, bold, fearless, and totally reliable. Known for their great intelligence and tenacity, they are highly people-oriented and possess a particular affinity for children.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Hereditary (HC), L-2-Hydroxyglutaric Aciduria (L-2-HGA), , , , and (skin allergies).
Exercise Needs
Moderate to High. Requires daily vigorous walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-induced destructive behavior.
Grooming Needs
Low. Their short coat requires only a weekly brush to remove dead hair and occasional bathing.
Living Suitability
Highly adaptable; they can thrive in apartments if exercised daily, but a home with a secure backyard is ideal. They are sensitive to extreme temperatures and should live indoors.
Good with Kids
Excellent. Renowned for being patient and tolerant with children of all ages, though supervision is always recommended.
Good with Other Pets
Can be selective. While many live happily with other pets, their history can lead to dog aggression or a high prey drive toward small animals if not socialised early.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but can be stubborn. They respond best to positive reinforcement and consistent, firm leadership. Eager to please their owners once a bond is established.
Coat & Colours
Smooth, short, and close to the skin.. Red, fawn, white, black, or blue, or any one of these colors with white. Any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are more likely to develop skin allergies and atopic dermatitis; this may manifest as itchy paws or red skin, often managed by a grain-free Majestik raw diet. They are predisposed to L-2-HGA, a metabolic disorder that can cause seizures—always ensure breeders provide DNA clearance for this. While not fully brachycephalic, their short muzzles make them prone to heat exhaustion, so exercise should be avoided in the midday South Australian sun. As 'Velcro dogs,' they can be susceptible to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, so providing enrichment toys is helpful. Their high prey drive means they might be inclined to chase smaller animals, and their natural tenacity can sometimes lead to stubbornness during training. They are also known for being 'chewers,' so sturdy toys are a must to protect your furniture. These traits are simply part of their devoted, high-energy personality and are easily managed with the right routine.
Feeding Guide for Your Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Healthy Weight
11-17 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
220-510 grams
Feed a variety of fresh proteins, aiming for 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For an average 15kg Staffy, this equates to approximately 300-450 grams per day. Adjust portions based on activity levels to prevent obesity, a common issue in the breed.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, protein-rich diet focusing on fresh or raw whole foods. Given their predisposition to skin sensitivities, a diet free from common fillers like wheat, corn, and soy is often recommended.
A balanced raw diet for a Staffy should include a rotation of lean proteins such as Kangaroo, Beef, and Lamb. At Majestik Pet Food, we recommend our Kangaroo and Beef blends to support lean muscle mass. Including Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oils or fresh sardines is crucial for managing this breed's prone skin. Small amounts of steamed green vegetables provide necessary antioxidants.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Staffordshire Bull Terrier? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
5-7 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.