The Australian Staffordshire Terrier, Aussie Staffy, or Staffy, is hugely popular in Australia and New Zealand. As a result, they regularly top any popularity polls held in both countries.
The Staffy’s popularity is due to the dog’s incredible athleticism and well-muscled appearance. These traits give them the impression of being physically strong. Therefore, the Staffy appeals to many Australian dog owners. However, Staffies are devoted family dogs who love and respect their owners. Staffies love to be around people.
Is There an Australian Staffy?
Most Australians know and call the dog the Staffy. However, the dogs are identical to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The Staffy originated in Staffordshire, England. Similarly, other countries have taken the Staffy to heart. The breed is often referred to by that country’s name. For example, the Irish Staffy.
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However, the same situation applies to all these dogs; they are the original English Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
English dog breeders created the dogs from the now extinct ‘Bull and Terrier’ breed. There was a time in England when bull baiting and bear baiting were common pastimes for Staffies’ ancestors. Breeders bred the ‘Bull and Terrier’ during the early 18th century. They used the Old English Bulldog and an assortment of terriers available at the time.
What Is Considered a “Staffy” in Australia?
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a shared ancestry with the Bull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier. These two dog breeds are also commonly referred to as ‘Staffies’.
However, each breed’s size, appearance, and temperament vary. So, you must complete your research before deciding whether a robust and active Terrier suits you.
Australian Staffy vs American Staffy vs British Staffy
| Characteristic | English Staffy | Australian Staffy | American Staffy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 14 to 16 inches | 14 to 16 inches | 17 to 19 inches |
| Weight | 24 to 38lbs | 24 to 38lbs | 40 to 70lbs |
| Lifespan | 12 to 14 years | 12 to 14 years | 12 to 16 years |
| Personality | Intelligent, bold, courageous, faithful, loyal & affectionate | Intelligent, bold, courageous, faithful, loyal & affectionate | Tenacious, devoted, attentive, loyal, & affectionate |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate | Moderate | High |
| Trainability | Good | Good | Good |
| Sociability | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Kid-Friendly | Very | Very | Good |
| Shedding Levels | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
Australian Staffy vs American Staffy vs British Staffy
In terms of characteristics and personality, there’s no difference between the English and Aussie Staffy. However, that’s not the case with the American Staffy.
A Staffy’s small stature does not detract from their energy and muscularity; they love to play! Staffies aren’t the best jogging companions but they have moderate stamina. Therefore, Staffies are best suited to those with an active lifestyle.
Owners should prioritise mental and physical stimulation. This will help keep their Staffy content. Training is also extremely important with this breed.
Likewise, having a Staffy who can chew on appropriate toys and play with their owners is important. As is developing obedience skills via force-free training techniques. All of this can make for a happier and more well-mannered companion.
However, the Staffy can be over-excited and impetuous. When in the mood, they can use their jaws too much in play.
As with all dogs, your Staffy should be constantly monitored and controlled around youngsters. This is especially true of Staffies because of their over-excitable natures.
The American Staffy or Amstaff has a different personality. In addition, the Amstaff is considerably larger than the Staffy or Aussie Staffy. Size should be a consideration when comparing the three dogs.
Similarly, inactive owners should not consider this breed. Amstaffs require a firm, confident owner who is dedicated to their dog’s training. An Amstaff owner also needs to be consistent in their methods.
Brave, loyal, and tenacious, the Amstaff will be an excellent watchdog. In addition, Amstaffs are loud and have a great deal of stamina. Their personality might be anything from a little pretentious to a lovable, giant lapdog.
