information gathering for possible future staffy

Hi all,

as the title suggests I am researching staffys as a possible future dog when the time is right.

i have 2 elderly cocker spaniels at the moment and would not be looking to have another dog until well after they have gained their wings but my husband has said IF we were to get another dog then he would like a staffy.

I love the breed but have no personal experience of them and a lot of the rescues I have looked at have stated "must have bull breed experience" which makes me think they are more difficult / different to other breeds?

Are they more stubborn than some other dogs? or is it that they are stronger?

thanks

Hi & welcome.

Well, yes, they can be stubborn, but they're actually very intelligent and easy to train providing you use kindness & patience. They don't, as a rule, respond well to harshness, although you will need to be firm.

I don't understand why you have to have'bull breed experience' to have a Stafford, but you would do well to read a few books on the breed so that you are aware of the way they are.

Are you more keen to get a rescue or a puppy?

Thanks for uour reply - my preference would be to adopt a rescue when the time is right but failing that a puppy?
I will definitely get some books on the breed - I guess I am wondering about the differences between staffs and cockers as they are what i have experience of?

Oh lord, where to start

Obviously the sheer strength of a Stafford will be different. Also, you won't find the total 'willingness' to obey the same.

Staffs are quite willing to do what you want them to, but they have to see a reason (usually treats or praise).

Energy levels can be different according to how they're bred, but generally Stafford's have high energy levels & need to have their minds as well as their bodies exercised!

Hi & welcome to the forum

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Hi from me & Katy Welcome to our forum. Are your Cockers working or show? I only ask as Staffies like to have a purpose, mainly to please the owner, pretty much like working Cockers!
They are extremely intelligent & love to learn & please. Also stubborn when it suits, love to test the boundaries to see how far they can push you If you can give one routine & boundaries they will be the perfect dog, pup or rescue, they are never to old to learn