A Stafford Perspective by John Cocchiola:
New stafford owners should be made aware of a few things before they take the plunge. Staffords are not average dogs, they are other than average. If you think your Stafford is strong, it’s probably stronger than you think. It can probably run faster and jump higher than you think too. They should not be underestimated. They have a lot of energy. They love people and can’t be cool about it. They might dislike other animals and they can’t be cool about that either. They need human companionship. They need to be with you. They play rough. They might play with their teeth. They’re affectionate to a fault. They can be relentless. They’ll be the best dog you’ll ever have, but people need to understand them going in, and be ready for the ride.
Staffords will most often co-exist with any other dogs you may have at home and they will learn the hierachy of your pack. I will never place two intact males in one home even to the most experienced Stafford owner.
Staffords & Children- Most Staffords will love to be around kids and most children will quickly fall in love with a Stafford. Children should be taught appropriate manners around dogs and should always be supervised. A Stafford, will be a child’s best friend for all of his life. . Staffords do not always know their strength and will be jumpy, rambunctious and mouthy. It is important to understand, that Staffords can be mouthy. Staffords use their mouths in excitement and also for affection. The mouthiness, can feel like a nibble, its important for all owners to understand that this is very normal for a Stafford and if your goal is to completely correct this, a Stafford is not the breed for you or your kids. They are very loving and will lick you to death! Child appropriate interactions
How Kids Should Interact With Dogs – Poster copy
How Kids Should NOT Interact With Dogs – Poster copy
Staffords are not outside dogs, and they are not to be left alone for extended periods of time. Staffords are very much companion animals. When you have a Stafford at home, you can expect to have no privacy! Staffords expect to be by your side no matter what you are doing. Not being in the same room as their family, is very heartbreaking for them. They will want to sleep where you sleep, and go wherever you go! If you let them, they will also eat with you. They will want to stand on your furniture and they will greet everyone who comes to your door. They will jump on you and your guests and they will also communicate with you, and can be very vocal. Staffords are not the best guard dogs, they are very fond of people.
Most Staffords are sensitive and hate to disappoint. They are very loyal and eager to please. 