Friendly Staffy wearing a pink Vibrant Hound Heart Explosion dog shirt

Are Staffies and pit bulls good with kids? What families should know

Yes, many Staffies are gentle, playful family dogs who adore their kids. But no breed is automatically safe with children, and the breed label tells you less than you might think. The individual dog's temperament, socialisation and training, and above all how closely adults supervise, matter far more than whether it's called a Staffy, an AmStaff or a pit bull.

Key takeaways

  • The Staffy breed standard calls the breed affectionate "especially with children". That's the breed ideal, not a guarantee for any one dog.
  • Research finds breed is a poor predictor of bites. Supervision, socialisation and how a dog is kept matter more, and even shelter staff often misidentify "pit bulls".
  • In Australia, most serious child dog bites happen at home or somewhere familiar, from a dog the child knows.
  • American Pit Bull Terriers can't be imported, are prohibited in Queensland (from 28 August 2024) and are restricted in NSW and Victoria. Staffies are not a restricted breed.
  • Whatever the breed: never leave a young child alone with a dog, teach kids dog body language, and give the dog a retreat space.

Are Staffies good with kids? The honest answer

Plenty of Aussie families have a Staffy snoring on the couch, and the breed has a well-earned reputation as a people dog. But "good with kids" describes an individual dog in a particular home, not a trait every dog of a breed is born with.

The RSPCA's advice applies to every dog, Cavoodle or Staffy: children should always be directly supervised by a responsible adult when they're with any dog, and where that isn't possible, a secure barrier should separate them.6 As we said in our guide to whether French Bulldogs are good with kids, a breed's reputation is a starting point, never a safety plan.

What do the breed standards say about temperament?

Breed standards describe the ideal dog breeders aim for. They're useful context, not a behaviour guarantee.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffy standard used by Dogs Australia (originally the Kennel Club's, London) describes the breed as "Highly intelligent and affectionate especially with children" and "Bold, fearless and totally reliable".1 The UK's Royal Kennel Club also notes the breed's affinity with children.2 It's compact: 36 to 41 cm at the shoulder, with males 13 to 17 kg and females 11 to 15.4 kg.1

American Staffordshire Terrier

The AmStaff is a separate, larger breed, also recognised by Dogs Australia. Its standard asks for "the impression of great strength for his size" and a dog that is alert and courageous.3 It says nothing specific about children.

American Pit Bull Terrier

The United Kennel Club (US) standard says the APBT has always been noted for its love of children and that aggression toward humans is uncharacteristic of the breed.4 It's also frank: because most APBTs show some dog aggression and have a powerful physique, the breed needs an owner who will carefully socialise and obedience-train it.4

For a closer size comparison, see our pit bull weight chart in kg.

Staffy vs AmStaff vs APBT at a glance for families

Staffordshire Bull Terrier American Staffordshire Terrier American Pit Bull Terrier
Height (standard) 36–41 cm1 Males approx 46–48 cm, females approx 43–46 cm3 Males approx 46–53 cm, females approx 43–51 cm4
Weight (standard) Males 13–17 kg, females 11–15.4 kg1 No set weight; "in proportion" to height3 Males approx 16–27 kg, females approx 14–23 kg4
Temperament (standard) Affectionate, especially with children; bold, reliable1 Alert, courageous; no mention of children3 Friendly, loves children; often dog-aggressive; needs careful socialisation4
Energy Strong and bouncy; up to 1 hour of exercise a day2 Muscular, agile, powerful for its size3 Strong, agile, an excellent climber; needs good fencing4
Legal status in Australia Not restricted in Qld, NSW or Vic Not restricted in Qld, NSW or Vic; in Vic, proof a dog is an AmStaff can prevent a restricted-breed declaration19 Import banned; prohibited in Qld from 28 Aug 2024; restricted in NSW and Vic16–19

APBT figures are converted from the UKC's pounds and inches and rounded.

Is the "nanny dog" label true?

You'll often see Staffies and pit bulls called "nanny dogs", with the claim that families once left them in charge of the children. It's a lovely image, and it's a myth.

Author Bronwen Dickey, who researched the history of pit bull-type dogs for her book Pit Bull: The Battle over an American Icon, found early-1900s writing describing these dogs as good playmates for children, but no primary sources using the term "nanny" until the 1970s.5 The label was attached long after the fact.

The bigger problem is what it implies. No dog is a babysitter, and the RSPCA is clear that children should never be left unsupervised around dogs.21 Love the breed for what it is: a loyal, affectionate companion who still needs an adult in the room.

What does the research say about breed and dog bites?

Breed is a poor predictor of behaviour

RSPCA Australia's position is that "Breed is a poor predictor of individual behaviour". It cites a temperament-testing study in which restricted breeds showed no significant differences from Golden Retrievers, and names owner behaviour, socialisation, rearing, training and environment as shaping aggression.8

The factors that line up in the worst cases

A 2013 US study led by Gary Patronek in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association examined 256 dog bite-related deaths from 2000 to 2009. These are thankfully extremely rare, but they show which factors cluster. In 87.1% of cases no able-bodied person was there to intervene, in 84.4% the dog wasn't desexed, and in 76.2% the dog was isolated from regular positive contact with people. Breed could be reliably identified in only 45 cases, and the authors concluded breed was not one of the preventable factors.7

Most of us can't tell a "pit bull" by looking

A 2015 study in The Veterinary Journal had staff and vets at four Florida shelters visually identify 120 dogs, then compared their calls with DNA. Even with a broad definition (as little as 12.5% Staffy or AmStaff ancestry), average sensitivity was only 50%, and 38% of dogs without that heritage were labelled pit bull-type by at least one assessor.9 A 2016 PLOS ONE study found the label itself changes perceptions: pit bull-labelled dogs were rated less attractive than the same dogs unlabelled, and stayed in one shelter around three times longer than look-alikes labelled as other breeds.10 For more on how that reputation formed, read pit bulls, the misunderstood breed.

Strength still counts

None of this means dog bites aren't a serious risk. They are. A muscular, bouncy 15 to 25 kg dog can knock a toddler flat in a happy greeting, and any powerful dog can do more damage if it does bite. That's a reason for training and supervision, not fear.

Built for Staffy chests

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How common are dog bites in Australian kids?

The Australian numbers point one way: the biggest risk is the family dog, at home.

  • In 2013–14, children aged 0 to 9 accounted for 689 dog-related injury hospitalisations, or 17% of the total (AIHW).15
  • A Queensland study in the Medical Journal of Australia found 92% of serious dog attacks on children happened somewhere familiar, usually the family home or a relative's or friend's. In 63% of cases the child had been physically interacting with the dog just before. No one breed stood out.11
  • Kidsafe Queensland (using 2006 state injury data) reported 81% of attacks on children occurred in their own home, and children under 5 were most at risk, peaking at 12 to 18 months.12
  • RSPCA Queensland says around 1,200 Queensland children present to emergency departments with dog bites each year, and 81% of those bites are from the family dog.13
  • The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne notes young children are often bitten on the head, face and neck because of their height relative to the dog.14

Some data is a few years old, but the pattern is consistent: familiar dog, familiar place, a child interacting with it, and often no adult close enough to step in.

Is it legal to own a pit bull in Australia?

Many Aussies searching "pit bull" actually own a Staffy or an AmStaff, and the law treats those breeds very differently.

  • Federal: The American pit bull terrier (or pit bull terrier) is one of five pure breeds that cannot be imported. Mixed breeds aren't covered by the import ban.16
  • Queensland: From 28 August 2024 it's one of five prohibited breeds. A person must not own or be responsible for one without a reasonable excuse.17
  • NSW: American pit bull terriers and pit bull terriers are restricted dogs, and it's an offence to sell, advertise, give away or transfer one.18
  • Victoria: American Pit Bull Terriers, pure or cross bred, are restricted breed dogs.19 New ones can no longer be registered, and those still kept must be desexed, microchipped, securely housed, and muzzled and leashed off the property.20

Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers are not on these states' restricted or prohibited lists. Councils can still declare a dog restricted if it appears to fit the definition, and in NSW and Victoria owners can challenge that with evidence of breed,18, 19 so keep registration and pedigree papers safe. Rules differ in other states and territories and can change, so always check with your local council.

How to keep kids and dogs safe at home

  • Supervise every interaction. Never leave a baby or young child alone with any dog. If you can't watch, use a gate, crate or closed door.6
  • Teach kids dog body language. The RSPCA lists stress signs such as repeated yawning, lip licking, turning the head away and showing the whites of the eyes.21 Kids shouldn't hug, kiss, grab, pull or chase dogs, or bother them while eating, sleeping or resting.6
  • Give the dog a retreat space. A bed or crate that's off limits to kids, and a dog that can always walk away without being followed.6
  • Use reward-based training. The RSPCA supports positive reinforcement and warns that punishing unwanted behaviour can make it worse.22 A Staffy that sits for greetings is far less likely to bowl over a toddler.

Choosing a Staffy or bull breed for your family

  • Meet the parents. The RSPCA advises insisting on meeting the mother (and father if possible) to assess temperament, and visiting where the puppy was raised.23
  • Consider an adult rescue. The RSPCA encourages adopting from a reputable welfare organisation first.23 An adult dog with a known history around children, assessed by experienced staff, takes out some of the puppy guesswork.
  • Be honest about your household. With toddlers, a calm adult dog may suit better than a boisterous puppy.

Introducing your Staffy to a new baby

The RSPCA starts with a clear rule: never leave your baby and dog together unsupervised.24 Before the birth, brush up on sit, stay, lie down and recall with reward-based training, and make any changes to routines or sleeping spots early. Let your dog sniff a blanket or piece of the baby's clothing and reward calm behaviour, then arrange a short, calm, on-leash meeting, ending it if your dog seems stressed or overexcited.24 If anything worries you, talk to your vet or a qualified behaviourist early.

FAQs

Are Staffies good with kids?

Many are affectionate, playful family dogs, and their breed standard describes them as affectionate especially with children. But every dog is an individual, and socialisation, training and supervision matter more than the label.

Are pit bulls good family dogs?

Individual pit bull-type dogs can be loving pets. In Australia, though, the American Pit Bull Terrier can't be imported, is prohibited in Queensland and restricted in NSW and Victoria, so check your council's rules first.

Are Staffies banned in Australia?

No. Staffordshire Bull Terriers aren't on the restricted or prohibited lists in Queensland, NSW or Victoria. Any individual dog can still face council action because of its behaviour.

Why are Staffies called nanny dogs?

The nickname suggests families once trusted these dogs to mind children, but research found no primary sources using "nanny" until the 1970s.5 No dog should be left in charge of a child.

What age should kids be before getting a Staffy?

There's no magic age. The RSPCA says children need to be old enough to understand how to interact safely.6 With babies and toddlers, plan for constant supervision, barriers and a retreat space.

References

  1. Dogs Australia, "Staffordshire Bull Terrier" breed standard. https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/59
  2. The Royal Kennel Club, "Staffordshire Bull Terrier". https://www.royalkennelclub.com/search/breeds-a-to-z/breeds/terrier/staffordshire-bull-terrier/
  3. Dogs Australia, "American Staffordshire Terrier" breed standard. https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/36
  4. United Kennel Club, "American Pit Bull Terrier" breed standard (revised 2017). https://www.ukcdogs.com/american-pit-bull-terrier
  5. Garden & Gun, "Giving Pit Bulls a Chance" (interview with Bronwen Dickey, 2016). https://gardenandgun.com/giving-pit-bulls-a-chance
  6. RSPCA Knowledgebase, "How do I introduce a new dog or puppy to children?". https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/how-do-i-introduce-a-new-dog-or-puppy-to-children
  7. Patronek GJ, Sacks JJ, Delise KM, Cleary DV, Marder AR, "Co-occurrence of potentially preventable factors in 256 dog bite-related fatalities in the United States (2000–2009)", JAVMA 2013;243(12):1726–1736 (abstract via The Journalist's Resource research review). https://journalistsresource.org/politics-and-government/dog-bites-attacks-research-review/
  8. RSPCA Knowledgebase, "What is the RSPCA's view on breed-specific legislation?". https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/legislation/companion-animal-legislation/what-is-the-rspcas-view-on-breed-specific-legislation
  9. Olson KR, Levy JK, Norby B et al., "Inconsistent identification of pit bull-type dogs by shelter staff", The Veterinary Journal 2015;206:197–202 (summary by the National Canine Research Council). https://nationalcanineresearchcouncil.com/research_library/summary-analysis-inconsistent-identification-of-pit-bull-type-dogs-by-shelter-staff/
  10. Gunter LM et al., "What's in a Name? Effect of Breed Perceptions & Labeling on Attractiveness, Adoptions & Length of Stay for Pit-Bull-Type Dogs", PLOS ONE 2016. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0146857
  11. Kimble RM, Dallow N, Franklin R, Wallis B, "Dog bites in Australian children", Medical Journal of Australia 2011;195(11):635–636. https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2011/195/11/dog-bites-australian-children
  12. Kidsafe Queensland, "Dog Attacks" fact sheet. https://kidsafeqld.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/dogattacks.pdf
  13. RSPCA Queensland, "Prevent-a-Bite: Teaching kids about dog safety". https://www.rspcaqld.org.au/resources/community/MCSMJ7X6KUNVGXVHBYLV2FWZUQHA
  14. The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, "Keeping kids safe around dogs". https://blogs.rch.org.au/news/?p=6647
  15. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, "Dog-related injuries". https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/injury/dog-related-injuries/related-material
  16. Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, "Cats and dogs frequently asked questions". https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/cats-dogs/frequently-asked-questions
  17. Queensland Government, "Dog ownership laws in Queensland". https://www.qld.gov.au/family/family-and-parents/government/pets/dogs-and-cats/dog-laws
  18. NSW Office of Local Government, "Restricted dogs". https://www.olg.nsw.gov.au/pets/nsw-pet-registry/pet-control/restricted-dogs
  19. Agriculture Victoria, "Restricted breed dogs". https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestock-and-animals/animal-welfare-victoria/dogs/restricted-breed-dogs/about-restricted-breed-dogs
  20. Maribyrnong City Council, "Dangerous and Restricted Breed Dogs". https://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Residents/Pets-and-animals/Dangerous-and-Restricted-Breed-Dogs
  21. RSPCA Knowledgebase, "How do I communicate with my dog?". https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/behaviour/how-do-i-communicate-with-my-dog
  22. RSPCA Knowledgebase, "Is it important to train my dog? What sort of training would you recommend?". https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/training/is-it-important-to-train-my-dog-what-sort-of-training-would-you-recommend
  23. RSPCA Knowledgebase, "How do I find a responsible dog or cat breeder?". https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/choosing-a-pet/how-do-i-find-a-responsible-dog-or-cat-breeder
  24. RSPCA Knowledgebase, "Will my newborn baby be safe around my dog?". https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/behaviour/will-my-newborn-baby-be-safe-around-my-dog
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