Frequently Asked Questions

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are renowned for their affectionate nature and exceptional patience with children, earning them the nickname "nanny dog." They are:

• Incredibly people-oriented: They thrive on human companionship and form deep bonds with their families
• Patient and gentle: Despite their muscular appearance, they're remarkably gentle with family members, especially children
• Loyal and protective: They are devoted guardians who are naturally protective of their loved ones
• Playful and energetic: They love interactive play and have a wonderful sense of humor
• Adaptable: They adjust well to various living situations as long as they get adequate exercise and attention

With proper training and socialization, Staffies make wonderful companions for active families who can provide the exercise, attention, and love these affectionate dogs crave.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are compact, muscular dogs with the following typical dimensions:

• Height: 14-16 inches at the shoulder
• Weight: Males typically weigh 28-38 pounds; females typically weigh 24-34 pounds
• Build: Stocky, muscular, and athletic with a low center of gravity
• Growth: They reach their full size by 12-18 months of age

Despite their relatively small size, Staffies are incredibly strong and powerful for their stature. They have a compact, muscular build that makes them sturdy without being overly large, making them suitable for various living situations including apartments (with adequate exercise).

Staffordshire Bull Terriers have a wonderful, complex temperament that combines toughness with tenderness:

• Affectionate: They are incredibly loving and often described as "velcro dogs" who want to be with their people constantly
• Confident: They possess a bold, fearless nature inherited from their terrier ancestry
• Intelligent: They're smart and eager to learn, though they can be strong-willed
• Loyal: Their devotion to their families is unwavering and profound
• Playful: They maintain a puppy-like enthusiasm and love of play throughout their lives
• People-focused: While some can be selective with other dogs, they typically adore people
• Sensitive: Despite their tough appearance, they're emotionally sensitive and respond poorly to harsh treatment

With proper socialization and training, Staffies are trustworthy, stable companions perfect for families.

Yes! Staffordshire Bull Terriers are exceptionally good with children when properly raised and socialized. They're often called "nanny dogs" because of their legendary patience and affection for kids.

Key points:

• They have a natural affinity for children and are remarkably gentle despite their strength
• They're patient with the poking, prodding, and noise that children bring
• They form strong protective bonds with children in their family
• They match children's energy levels and love to play
• Supervision is always recommended with any dog and children, especially given the Staffie's strength
• Teaching children how to properly interact with dogs is essential

Important: While Staffies are wonderful with kids, all interactions between dogs and young children should be supervised to ensure safety for both.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are moderately to highly active dogs that require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy:

• Daily Exercise: At least 60 minutes per day, split into two or more sessions
• Walking: Two 30-minute walks daily at minimum
• Play Time: Active play sessions with fetch, tug-of-war, or agility activities
• Mental Stimulation: Puzzle toys, training sessions, and nose work to tire their minds
• Variety: They enjoy hiking, swimming (with a life vest), and exploring new environments

Note: Without adequate exercise, Staffies can become bored and may develop destructive behaviors. A tired Staffie is a well-behaved Staffie! However, they're also happy to cuddle on the couch after their exercise needs are met.

We conduct comprehensive health testing on all our breeding dogs to ensure we produce the healthiest puppies possible:

• L-2-Hydroxyglutaric Aciduria (L-2HGA) DNA Testing: To screen for this metabolic disorder specific to Staffies
• Eye Examinations: Annual evaluations by board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists (CERF/OFA) to screen for hereditary cataracts
• Hip Evaluations: OFA or PennHIP certification to screen for hip dysplasia
• Elbow Evaluations: OFA screening for elbow dysplasia
• Patellar Luxation Screening: Evaluation of knee stability
• Cardiac Evaluations: Heart health screening for congenital issues
• General Health Assessments: Comprehensive veterinary examinations

We're happy to provide copies of all health clearances to prospective puppy buyers. Our commitment to health testing reflects our dedication to breeding healthy, sound Staffordshire Bull Terriers.

Our puppies go to their new homes at 8 weeks of age or older. This timing is crucial because:

• Puppies need at least 8 weeks with their mother and littermates for proper social development
• This period allows them to learn important bite inhibition and canine communication skills
• By 8 weeks, they're weaned, eating solid food independently, and ready for their new homes
• They've received their first round of vaccinations and deworming
• We've completed early socialization and neurological stimulation exercises

We never release puppies earlier than 8 weeks as this is critical for their behavioral and social development. Some puppies may stay a bit longer if needed for additional development or socialization.

When you take your Santa Paws puppy home, you'll receive:

• Health Records: Complete vaccination and deworming history
• Veterinary Health Certificate: Recent examination by our veterinarian
• Lifetime Health Guarantee: Against genetic and hereditary conditions
• Microchip Registration: For your puppy's safety and identification
• Starter Kit: Including puppy food, treats, toys, and care information
• Pedigree Papers: Documentation of your puppy's lineage
• Care Guide: Comprehensive information on feeding, training, and health care
• Puppy Training Resources: Tips and recommendations for successful training
• Lifetime Support: We're always here to answer questions and provide guidance

Your puppy will be potty and crate training started, well-socialized, and ready to join your family!

Yes, all our Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppies are registerable. We provide registration papers and full pedigree information with each puppy. Our breeding program maintains careful records of lineage to ensure genetic diversity and breed quality.

Registration ensures:

• Documented lineage and breed purity
• Ability to participate in dog shows and events (if desired)
• Health clearances are properly documented
• Responsible breeding practices are maintained

We take socialization very seriously! Our comprehensive socialization program includes:

• Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS): Days 3-16 to enhance stress tolerance and neurological development
• Human Interaction: Daily handling by adults and supervised children of various ages
• Environmental Exposure: Different surfaces, sounds, objects, and experiences
• Sound Desensitization: Exposure to household noises, vacuum cleaners, doorbells, etc.
• Littermate Play: Learning bite inhibition and dog communication skills
• Basic Training: Introduction to crate training, potty training, and basic commands
• Enrichment Activities: Age-appropriate toys, puzzles, and exploration opportunities

This early socialization creates confident, well-adjusted puppies ready to thrive in their new homes.

Our adoption process is designed to ensure the best match between puppies and families:

1. Initial Inquiry: Contact us to express your interest and ask questions
2. Application: Complete our puppy application form
3. Interview: Phone or video call to discuss your lifestyle, expectations, and experience
4. Puppy Selection: Choose your puppy or receive our recommendation based on your needs
5. Deposit: Place a deposit to reserve your puppy
6. Updates: Receive regular photos and videos as your puppy grows
7. Preparation: We provide guidance on preparing your home for your new puppy
8. Pick-Up Day: Meet your puppy, receive all documentation and supplies, and get final instructions
9. Follow-Up: Ongoing support and check-ins throughout your dog's life

Yes, we maintain a waiting list for upcoming litters. Given our commitment to quality over quantity with only 5 breeding pairs, we typically have limited availability.

How the waiting list works:

• Submit an application to be added to our list
• Priority is given based on application date and best fit for each puppy
• We notify you when a litter is planned or born
• You'll receive regular updates throughout the pregnancy and puppy development
• Average wait time varies but typically ranges from 2-6 months

We believe finding the right home is more important than speed, so we carefully match each puppy with the family that will provide the best lifelong home.

Deposit Requirements:

• A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your puppy
• The deposit amount is applied to the total purchase price
• Deposits hold your place for a specific puppy or on our waiting list

Refund Policy:

• Deposits are non-refundable if you change your mind
• If we cannot provide a puppy due to circumstances on our end (small litter, health issues, etc.), your deposit will be fully refunded or transferred to the next available litter
• Final payment is due before or at the time of puppy pick-up

We're happy to discuss payment plans and answer any questions about our policies.

We prefer that families pick up their puppies in person so we can meet you, show you how to care for your puppy, and ensure a smooth transition. However, we understand this isn't always possible.

Transportation Options:

• In-Person Pick-Up: Preferred method - meet us at our location
• Ground Transport: Professional pet transport services available for an additional fee
• Flight Nanny: Personal escort service where the puppy travels in-cabin (weather permitting)
• Meeting Halfway: We may be willing to meet you partway for local/regional adopters

All transport costs are the responsibility of the buyer. We ensure puppies are comfortable, safe, and properly prepared for travel with all necessary documentation.

We care deeply about every puppy we produce. We have a lifetime take-back policy for all our dogs.

If circumstances change and you can no longer keep your Staffordshire Bull Terrier:

• Contact us immediately - we will always take our dogs back, no matter the age or reason
• We will help rehome your dog to an approved family if you prefer
• We never want one of our dogs to end up in a shelter or rescue
• This is a lifetime commitment from us to every puppy we produce

Important: Our contract requires that you contact us first if you need to rehome your dog. We want to ensure all our puppies remain in loving, appropriate homes throughout their lives.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are intelligent and eager to please, which can make training enjoyable, but they also have a strong-willed, independent streak inherited from their terrier heritage.

Training Characteristics:

• Smart: They learn quickly and understand commands well
• Food-Motivated: Most Staffies are highly treat-motivated, making positive reinforcement very effective
• People-Focused: They want to please their owners and thrive on praise
• Strong-Willed: They can be stubborn and may test boundaries
• Sensitive: They respond poorly to harsh corrections; positive methods work best

Training Tips:

• Start early with consistent, positive reinforcement training
• Keep sessions short and fun (10-15 minutes)
• Use high-value treats and enthusiastic praise
• Be patient and consistent - they will test you!
• Consider professional training classes for first-time owners

With the right approach, Staffies can excel in obedience, agility, and various dog sports.

Great news! Staffordshire Bull Terriers are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming:

• Brushing: Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush or grooming mitt to remove loose hair
• Bathing: Only as needed (every 6-8 weeks or when dirty) - over-bathing can dry their skin
• Shedding: Moderate year-round shedding with seasonal increases
• Nail Trimming: Every 2-3 weeks or as needed
• Ear Cleaning: Weekly checks and cleaning to prevent infections
• Dental Care: Regular brushing recommended to prevent dental disease
• Skin Checks: Regular inspection for allergies, hot spots, or issues

Their short, smooth coat is easy to maintain and doesn't require professional grooming. However, some Staffies can be prone to skin allergies, so regular checks are important.

While generally healthy, Staffordshire Bull Terriers can be prone to certain conditions. We test for these issues:

• L-2-Hydroxyglutaric Aciduria (L-2HGA): A metabolic disorder we DNA test for
• Hereditary Cataracts: Eye conditions we screen for annually
• Hip Dysplasia: Joint condition we evaluate through OFA/PennHIP
• Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement we screen for
• Skin Allergies: Some lines can be prone to allergies; we monitor breeding stock carefully
• Heart Conditions: Rare but we conduct cardiac evaluations

Our Commitment: We health test all breeding dogs and offer a lifetime genetic health guarantee. With proper care, nutrition, and regular vet visits, most Staffies live healthy lives of 12-14 years.

Proper nutrition is crucial for these muscular, active dogs:

• Puppy Stage (8 weeks - 12 months): High-quality puppy food formulated for medium breeds, 3-4 meals daily
• Adult Stage (12+ months): Quality adult dog food, 2 meals daily
• Protein: Look for foods with quality protein sources (chicken, beef, fish) as the first ingredient
• Avoid: Foods with excessive fillers, by-products, or artificial additives
• Portion Control: Important! Staffies can easily become overweight
• Treats: Keep to 10% or less of daily calories

We'll send your puppy home with a starter supply of the food they've been eating. Gradually transition to your chosen food over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset. Always consult your vet about the best diet for your individual dog.

Yes! Staffordshire Bull Terriers can adapt well to apartment living if their exercise needs are met:

• Pros: Compact size, relatively quiet indoors, adaptable
• Requirements: Daily walks, active play, mental stimulation
• Exercise: They need 60+ minutes of exercise daily, regardless of living space
• Important: They shouldn't be left alone for long periods - they're people dogs!
• Considerations: Check breed restrictions (some apartments/HOAs have restrictions on bull breeds)

With adequate exercise and attention, Staffies are happy couch potatoes indoors. However, a tired Staffie is a well-behaved Staffie, so commit to their exercise needs before choosing this breed for apartment living.

No! This is one of the most common misconceptions about Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Properly bred and socialized Staffies are:

• Affectionate and gentle with their families, especially children
• People-oriented and typically friendly with humans
• Stable and trustworthy with proper training and socialization
• Loyal protectors without being aggressive

Important Context:

• Human aggression is NOT a breed characteristic and is considered a serious fault
• Like all dogs, they need proper socialization from puppyhood
• Some Staffies can be selective with other dogs (terrier heritage), but this is dog-dog issues, NOT human aggression
• Responsible breeding, early socialization, and positive training create wonderful, stable companions
• Unfortunately, the breed suffers from media misrepresentation and is often confused with other breeds

Our breeding program prioritizes temperament, and we only breed dogs with excellent, stable personalities. Every puppy receives extensive socialization to ensure they grow into confident, friendly adults.

This varies by individual dog, but with proper socialization:

• Other Dogs: Many Staffies enjoy canine companionship, especially when raised together. However, some can be selective about dog friends (terrier heritage). Early socialization is crucial.
• Cats: If raised with cats from puppyhood, many Staffies coexist peacefully. Supervise initial introductions carefully.
• Small Pets: Due to their terrier prey drive, caution is advised with small animals like rabbits, hamsters, etc. Supervision is essential.

Keys to Success:

• Early and ongoing socialization with other animals
• Supervised introductions to new pets
• Training to reinforce appropriate behavior
• Understanding your individual dog's personality
• Always supervise interactions, especially initially

We help match puppies to families based on their household situation and can guide you through successful multi-pet households.

While related, these are distinct breeds with different characteristics:

Staffordshire Bull Terrier (our breed):

• Originated in England
• Smaller: 14-16 inches tall, 24-38 pounds
• Compact, stocky build
• Known as the "nanny dog" for their affection with children
• Recognized by UK Kennel Club since 1935

American Staffordshire Terrier:

• Developed in the United States
• Larger: 17-19 inches tall, 40-70 pounds
• Taller, more athletic build
• Separate breed recognized by AKC

Both breeds share some ancestry but have been developed separately for different purposes and standards. We breed Staffordshire Bull Terriers exclusively.

Unfortunately, yes - this is an important consideration:

• Housing: Some apartments, HOAs, and rental properties have restrictions on bull breeds
• Insurance: Some homeowners/renters insurance companies have breed-specific policies
• BSL: Some areas have breed-specific legislation that may restrict or ban certain breeds

Before Adopting:

• Check your lease or HOA rules for breed restrictions
• Contact your insurance company about their policies
• Research local laws and ordinances
• Be prepared to provide documentation of temperament testing if needed

Our Support: We can provide documentation of health testing, temperament evaluation, and responsible breeding practices to help you navigate these challenges. We also encourage owners to be ambassadors for the breed through responsible ownership.