The Blue Staffordshire Bull Terrier, affectionately known as the Blue Staffy, is renowned for its charming personality and striking appearance. With a muscular build and distinctive blue coat, this breed has captured the hearts of dog lovers around the globe. Blue Staffies are not only visually appealing, but they also possess a temperament that makes them wonderful companions.
When considering purchasing a Blue Staffordshire Bull Terrier (commonly known as Staffy), it's vital to weigh the pros and cons of this breed to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle and abilities. Here are several points to consider:
Temperament: Blue Staffies are known for their loving and affectionate nature. They are generally great with children and can be superb family pets. However, they also need consistent training and socialisation to ensure they remain well-adjusted.
Energy Levels: Staffies are very energetic dogs that require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They thrive in active households where they can partake in daily activities, such as walks, playtime, and potentially agility training.
Grooming Requirements: The Blue Staffy has a short, smooth coat that is easy to maintain. They do shed, so regular brushing can help minimise loose fur around the house.
The Blue Staffordshire Bull Terrier, often referred to as the "Blue Staffy," is a variant of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier that showcases a striking blue coat due to a specific genetic trait. Originating in the early 19th century in Staffordshire, England, the breed was developed from bull and terrier crosses for sport and working purposes. Known for their strength and loyalty, they were initially bred to assist in bull-baiting, which was a popular blood sport of the time. Following the Ban on bull-baiting in 1835, breeders focused on creating a more companion-oriented dog, emphasising a gentle temperament while maintaining their athleticism.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, commonly known as the Blue Stafford, is a muscular and compact breed. Males typically stand between 36-41 cm (14-16 inches) at the withers, while females measure slightly less, averaging 33-38 cm (13-15 inches).
In terms of weight, Blue Staffords are robust dogs. Males generally weigh between 13-17 kg (28-37 lbs), while females are slightly lighter, weighing between 11-15 kg (24-33 lbs).
The breed is especially known for its striking blue coat, a diluted shade of black. The Kennel Club acknowledges various colours for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, including blue, brindle, fawn, and white; however, blue is particularly celebrated. They can also have white markings, but excessive white can be seen as less desirable.
Blue Staffordshire Bull Terriers are known for their loyalty and protective nature. They may not have the intimidating appearance of some guard dogs, but they will alert their owners to any unusual activity. If they sense a threat to their loved ones, Blue Staffies can be quite courageous.
Blue Staffies tend to bark occasionally, but they are not known for excessive barking. Their barks are usually reserved for alerting their owners of something they perceive as unusual or when they are playing.
Blue Staffies are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. They respond well to consistent and positive reinforcement methods, and early socialisation is crucial to help them develop well-mannered behaviours.
The average lifespan of a Blue Staffordshire Bull Terrier is typically between 12 to 14 years, depending on their overall health and the care they receive.
Blue Staffies are energetic and require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. It is recommended to provide them with at least 1 hour of exercise daily, including walks, playtime, and mental stimulation activities.
Blue Staffies can be prone to certain health issues, including:
Hip Dysplasia: A common condition in many dog breeds where the hip joint does not fit snugly into the hip socket, which can lead to arthritis and pain.
Skin Conditions: Blue Staffies can suffer from various skin issues, including allergies and dermatitis due to their short coat.
Heart Disease: As they age, Staffies may be at a higher risk for certain heart conditions.
Eye Disorders: They can be prone to hereditary eye diseases, including cataracts.
Obesity: Due to their love of food and relatively low exercise levels if not monitored, Blue Staffies can become overweight, leading to further health issues.
Blue Staffies adapt well to various living situations, including apartments, provided they receive adequate exercise. However, they thrive in homes with a secure garden space where they can run and play. Necessary precautions should be taken to ensure that the area is well-fenced to prevent any escapes.
Blue Staffies have short coats that require minimal grooming. A weekly brush is usually sufficient to remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy. Regular bathing is also important, especially if they get dirty or begin to develop an odour. Additionally, it’s essential to check their ears and teeth regularly, ensuring they remain clean and healthy.
As a rough guide in pricing:
Cost to buy: roughly £1,000-£2,500 for a well-bred Blue Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy.
Other costs (Vet, Food etc): average to £80-£120 per month.
You can read our general buying guide here, with the most important thing being going to view your Blue Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy, seeing it with its mother, and checking the quality of the breeder.
A big thank you to the following sources who helped to shape this article:
The Kennel Club: Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Information
Petplan: Staffordshire Bull Terrier
