Compact, broad-headed and remarkably strong for a dog standing barely 16 inches tall, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier comes from the bulldog and terrier crosses of nineteenth-century Staffordshire and Birmingham. Those dogs were bred for bull baiting and later illegal dog fighting, but the enthusiasts who sought Kennel Club recognition in 1935 selected for a reliable, people-friendly companion. Staffies wear a short, smooth coat in red, fawn, white, black, blue or brindle, often with white.
Many Staffies are affectionate, playful and especially fond of children, with an exuberant greeting style and a love of contact. The tenacity of their ancestors can show with other dogs, since many will not back down if challenged. They need daily exercise, chew toys and steady, reward-based training. Adopters should also check local rules and rental policies, because Staffies are sometimes caught up in breed-specific restrictions.