Staffordshire Bull Terriers

1. How often should I groom my Staffordshire Bull Terrier?
   Staffies have short, smooth coats that are low maintenance. A weekly brush with a rubber grooming mitt will remove loose hairs and keep their skin healthy. A diet rich in natural oils, like Poppy’s Picnic raw meals, supports skin and coat health.

2. Do Staffies shed much?
   They shed lightly throughout the year. Regular brushing and a raw diet can help reduce loose fur and support a shiny coat.

3. How much exercise does a Staffy need each day?
   Staffies are muscular and energetic. Aim for 1 to 1.5 hours of daily exercise, including walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation.

4. Are Staffies prone to health problems?
   Common concerns include:

• Hip and elbow dysplasia

• Skin allergies

• Eye problems like cataracts

• Hereditary cataracts and L-2-HGA (a neurological condition) .

5. What’s the average lifespan of a Staffy?
   Typically 12 to 14 years. A healthy diet and active lifestyle can help them live longer, happier lives.

6. How often should I bathe my Staffy?
   Every 6-8 weeks or when dirty. Use a mild, dog-safe shampoo to preserve skin health.

7. How do I clean my Staffy’s ears?
   Clean weekly using a vet-recommended ear cleanser. Avoid going deep into the ear canal and always dry ears after swimming.

8. How do I know if my Staffy is overweight?
   You should be able to feel their ribs without pressing hard. Portion control and regular activity are essential. Poppy’s Picnic offers feeding guides to help maintain a healthy weight. Independent trade organisation, UK Pet food, has worked with vets to create a useful sizeometer for dogs so it's easier to track your dog's weight. Download it here 

9. What toys are best for Staffies?
   Choose durable chew toys, rope toys, and enrichment puzzles. Put Poppy’s Picnic treats in a Kong for a long-lasting treat.

10. How do I keep my Staffy’s coat healthy?
    Weekly grooming, regular baths, and a diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (like those in Poppy’s Picnic raw meals) help maintain skin and coat health.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Behaviour & Temperament: 40 More Common Questions

11. Are Staffies good with children?
    Yes, they’re often nicknamed 'nanny dogs' for their gentle, loving nature with children. Supervise interactions and teach respectful behaviour.

12. Do Staffies get along with other dogs?
    Socialisation from a young age is key. Some Staffies may be reactive, but many get on well with other dogs when properly introduced.

13. Are Staffies easy to train?
    Yes, they’re intelligent and eager to please. Use positive reinforcement and consistency. Poppy’s Picnic treats make great training rewards.

14. Do Staffies bark a lot?
    They’re not typically excessive barkers but will alert to unusual sounds. Address boredom barking with more stimulation.

15. Can Staffies live in flats?
    Yes, provided they get sufficient daily exercise and stimulation. They’re adaptable to indoor living.

16. Do Staffies like cuddles?
    Absolutely! Staffies are affectionate and love being close to their humans.

17. Can Staffies be left alone?
    They can suffer from separation anxiety. Train gradually, use enrichment feeders, and avoid long periods alone.

18. Are Staffies hypoallergenic?
    No, they shed dander and fur. They’re not considered suitable for allergy sufferers.

19. How do I socialise my Staffy?
    Expose them positively to a variety of people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

20. Are Staffies good watchdogs?
    They’re alert and will bark to signal visitors but are usually friendly once introduced.

21. Do Staffies enjoy agility or training classes?
    Yes, they excel in obedience and agility thanks to their intelligence and athleticism.

22. Can Staffies swim?
    Some enjoy water, but not all are natural swimmers. Use a doggy life vest and introduce water play gently.

23. Why does my Staffy chew everything?
    Teething, boredom, or anxiety could be the cause. Provide tough chew toys and rotate them to keep things interesting.

24. Why does my Staffy pull on the lead?
    Lead training is essential. Use positive reinforcement and stop walking when they pull. Reward calm walking with Poppy’s Picnic treats.

25. How can I stop my Staffy jumping on people?
    Train them to sit when greeting. Ignore jumping and reward calm behaviour.

26. What are common Staffy behavioural issues?
    Separation anxiety, pulling, and chewing are most common. Training, structure, and a consistent routine help.

27. Why does my Staffy lick me so much?
    It’s a sign of affection and bonding. Excessive licking may indicate anxiety or allergies.

28. Do Staffies get bored easily?
    Yes, they thrive on interaction and stimulation. Daily play, training, and enrichment feeders using Poppy’s Picnic treat help keep them busy.

29. Is a Staffy a good first dog?
    Yes, for active and committed owners. They’re loyal, loving, and trainable.

30. Why does my Staffy follow me everywhere?
    They form strong bonds and enjoy being close. Build independence gradually with alone-time training.

31. Do Staffies drool much?
    Not excessively, though some may drool when anticipating food or after exercise.

32. Why does my Staffy snore?
    Their short snouts can contribute to snoring, especially when sleeping on their backs.

33. Can Staffies live with cats?
    Yes, if raised together or properly introduced. Monitor interactions and teach boundaries.

34. How do I help my Staffy with anxiety?
    Establish routines, provide safe spaces, and use calming enrichment toys. Diet also supports mood—Poppy’s Picnic includes key nutrients for balance.

35. Why does my Staffy dig in the garden?
    It’s natural curiosity or boredom. Create a digging zone or redirect with activities.

36. How do I toilet train my Staffy puppy?
    Use a consistent routine, praise, and patience. Take them out frequently and reward success.

37. Why does my Staffy growl when playing?
    Growling can be normal play vocalisation. Watch for body language to distinguish between play and agitation.

38. Can Staffies learn tricks?
    Yes, they’re quick learners and love the challenge. Use short sessions and tasty Poppy’s Picnic treats.

39. Why is my Staffy pacing at night?
    Could be restlessness, anxiety, or dietary imbalance. Ensure they have evening exercise, a calm routine, and a satisfying meal.

40. Are Staffies sensitive dogs?
    Yes. They respond strongly to tone and body language. Use gentle, positive training methods.

41. Can Staffies be therapy dogs?
    With the right temperament and training, absolutely. Their affectionate nature makes them suitable candidates.

42. How do I keep my Staffy mentally stimulated?
    Use puzzle toys, training sessions, and food-based enrichment, Poppy’s Picnic treats are perfect in frozen toys or slow feeders.

43. Do Staffies need coats in winter?
    Some do, especially older dogs or those with thin coats. Choose a snug, weather-resistant dog coat.

44. Why is my Staffy scratching a lot?
    Could be allergies, fleas, or dry skin.

45. What’s the best food for a Staffy?
    A fresh, balanced raw diet can help support muscle tone, skin health, and energy levels. All Poppy’s Picnic meals are ideal for Staffies.

46. When should I neuter my Staffy?
    Typically around 6 to 12 months. Speak to your vet for personalised advice based on development.

47. How can I teach my Staffy to be calm around visitors?
    Train a calm behaviour (like 'place' or 'sit'), reward consistently, and set clear boundaries.

48. Do Staffies make good travel companions?
    Yes! They’re loyal and adaptable. Crate training and gradual exposure to car travel can help.

49. Why does my Staffy howl?
    It may be a response to noises, loneliness, or imitation. Observe context and redirect when needed.

50. What’s the ideal routine for a Staffy?

• Morning walk and breakfast

• Midday play or enrichment

• Evening training and dinner

• Calm bedtime wind-down Staffies thrive with structure, stimulation, and love.