Bulldog Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dog Breed

The Bulldog-Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix, as a crossbreed, is not an official member of any breed group. Neither does any info exist about these hybrids' specific origin; since the parent breeds are pretty similar, a Staffy x Bulldog cross has probably existed naturally for a long time, but no breeder or breed club has claimed its creation. The Bulldog-Staffy mix likely gained popularity during the designer dog "explosion" in North America in the late 20th century. These strong, sweet dogs make awesome pets for families of any size--and they're especially great with children.

A few Bulldog-Staffy mix facts: they're medium-sized, averaging 14 inches at the shoulders in height and 40 pounds in weight; they have short, smooth coats that shed moderately; and they'll need consistent exercise to remain in good physical shape.

Some advantages and drawbacks to owning a Bulldog-Staffordshire mix:

Some Staffy-cross-American Bulldog information: these hybrids are the offspring of two breeds that are both solid and strong. They'll have large heads (which means their mothers may need assistance whelping them), strong jaws, and muscular bodies. Their legs can be short like the Bulldog's, which'll give them that adorable sideways "Bulldog sidle."

Personality-wise, Bulldog-Staffy mixes are incredibly sweet and friendly--to everyone and everything except other dogs, that is. Because of the parent breeds' fighting histories, these hybrids will often instinctively try to dominate other canines, so it's best if they're members of a "one-dog" household. Otherwise, a Bulldog-Staffy mix will be a super-sweet member of any family, and will participate in everything from a spirited game of fetch to chilling on the couch in front of the TV. They can also live pretty comfortably in apartments--but they'll definitely need some outdoor exercise on a daily basis to stay healthy.

That said--and particularly if the dog takes after its Bulldog parent--a Bulldog-Staffy mix might just be lazy! While it'll surely be strong, this crossbreed may not be very energetic, and might need some encouragement to get out and run around with family members.

Friendly, protective, easygoing, loyal, and at times lazy and stubborn, the Bulldog-cross-Staffy temperament is one of patience, fun, and love. These hybrids will be very affectionate with family members, and will be very protective of them as well. Since its Bulldog parent isn't really blessed with loads of intelligence, a Bulldog-Staffy mix may not be the smartest dog there is--but it'll make up for that with great willingness to please! Bulldog-Staffy mixes get along great with kids, and they socialize well with most other pets, though they may try to challenge other dogs. In any case, it's best if your Bulldog-Staffy mix grows up alongside any children or other household pets, so they learn to be accustomed to one another.

In regards to training: a Bulldog-Staffy may be enthusiastic about learning things, but may not have a lot of intelligence; this combined with its potential for stubbornness means this dog may need some repetitions when learning commands, tasks, or tricks. As with any breed, firm, consistent, reward-based training methods are best.

And a Bulldog-Staffy mix will have good watchdog skills too. These hybrids are alert, protective, and vocal, and will definitely bark at and investigate unknown sights or sounds.

The Bulldog-Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix, due to hybrid vigor (in which a crossbred dog inherits the healthiest traits of its parent breeds), is pretty healthy. Even so, these hybrids can suffer ailments common to the parent breeds, including hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, demodectic mange, and assorted eye problems. Some dogs, particularly ones with more Bulldog-like facial structure, may also be prone to brachycephalic syndrome (breathing problems). Potential owners are advised to ask breeders for health screenings for the dog and/or its parents, or they can ask their own veterinarians to do the screenings.

Life expectancy for these hybrids is 10-13 years.