Blue Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Despite their brawling past, Staffies are a loving and devoted family dog in the right hands. They make a great first-time dog for owners who are prepared to put in the time and focused training that this breed needs.
Are blue Staffies good dogs?
A well-socialised blue staffordshire bull terrier will get on with children and other pets in the home, including cats. They can also be very good with other dogs. However, it’s important that they are introduced to each other carefully and slowly so they don’t fight or become territorial over food.
The defining features of the breed include a short snout and pronounced cheeks that give them their distinctive smile. Their ears are usually half-pricked or rose-shaped and can be either upright or falling backwards. They are intelligent, active and loyal dogs with tremendous stamina so they need to be exercised daily. This includes a daily walk or jog.
Blue staffies are very healthy and have few breed-specific problems. However, like all dogs, they can suffer from hereditary health conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, eye issues and L-2-Hydroxyglutaric Aciduria (often referred to as L-2HGA). It’s vital that breeders DNA test their parent pooches before breeding them.
If you want a puppy, you’ll need to find a responsible and professional breeder who will care more about the quality of their puppies than the money they can make from selling them. The Kennel Club has a breeder scheme that can help you find one.