Please do extensive reading about any breed before you purchase a puppy. Talk to owners of the breeds you are interested in after reading. Finally, consult the American Kennel Club site and other information sites on line before choosing to take a puppy into your life.

The dog brings companionship and joy. They also bring a life-long responsibility. Ask yourself questions such as how much time do I have to spend with the puppy and am I prepared to potty-train and obedience train him?

The staffy is a wonderful breed with a plethora of attributes. However, they require a lot from an owner as well. A hasty purchase without appropriate consideration will lead to an unhappy owner and a miserable pet.

Once you have a puppy, ask yourself what are my plans for this new puppy? If you don't plan to show or breed, get with your vet about desexing him or her. There are more than enough unwanted puppies already, don't bring more into the world.

Desexed pets are happier and you will be much happier with one.

Physical Characteristics: The staffy should be 14 to 16 inches in height. The weight range is between 24 and 38 pounds. They are packed with muscle and should give this impression when viewed.

The staffy is also an agile and athletic breed. They have short smooth coats.

Personality: The AKC describes the staffy as having off-duty quietness and trustworthy stability. These dogs love to snuggle on the couch and lounge on your lap. They are not excessive barkers.

In England they are known as the nanny dog because they are so good with children. (All breeds of dog should be watched with children. Children should be coached on how to treat the dog. The dog must understand that they rank beneath the child in the hierarchy of the pack/family).

When called upon they have an abundance of energy and will run on and on.

A staffy should have a minimum of thirty minutes exercise per day. When properly socialized the staffy can do well with other dogs, but should always be on lead when out of the home and fence. If provoked, these little dogs do not stop. They won't back down and may kill another dog or be killed by one.

Also, due to their appearance, many people fear them and may harm them. A well socialized and trained staffy is a joy. Help our reputation with a well behaved socialized pet. Obedience training is a must.

~Allen