Overview
The Staffie is one of the most popular dogs in Britain and one of the most misunderstood. With people it is soft, affectionate and famously good with children; the Kennel Club standard describes it as totally reliable. With other dogs it varies: many are fine, some are not, and the breed's strength means you need to know which you have before the walk starts.
They are compact, athletic and enthusiastic about everything. A Staffie that has had a proper walk is a calm, happy dog on the sofa; one that has not will bounce off the walls.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour a day in two walks, with some play, suits most adults. Staffies love tug and fetch and will play until they drop, so you set the limit rather than the dog. They are sprinters rather than marathon dogs and do not need huge distances.
The short coat gives no protection in cold rain and the breed overheats quickly in summer, so dress the dog or shorten the walk as the weather dictates.
On the walk
- Recall: Often good because Staffies love their people, but a dog with a history of scraps should stay on the lead in busy places.
- Pulling: Strong. The whole dog is muscle and it leans into the lead with joy. A well-fitted harness and a short, fixed lead give you the most control.
- Other dogs: Judge each dog individually and believe the owner. Many are sociable; some will not back down if challenged. Keep introductions on neutral ground and watch body language.
- People: Expect a full-body wiggle at every passer-by. The breed's reputation means some people will be nervous, so keep the dog close and let them pass.
- Weather: Hates cold rain, struggles in heat. A coat in winter and shade in summer.
Tips for professional walkers
- Use a harness with a front and back clip and a lead you can shorten quickly.
- Carry a tug toy; a minute of tug is a reward, a distraction and an outlet all at once.
- Walk a new Staffie alone before adding it to a group, and keep any group small and well-matched.
- Watch the paws on hot pavements and the belly on cold, wet grass; there is not much coat either way.
- Record any dog-to-dog tension in the walk report so the owner and the next walker know.
What to ask the owner
- How is the dog with other dogs, on the lead and off, and has it ever been in a fight?
- Is there a harness and lead the dog is used to, and any cue for loose-lead walking?
- Any skin allergies? Staffies are prone to itchy skin and the owner may want certain grass or treats avoided.
- How does the dog cope in heat and cold, and does it have a coat for winter?