Although Staffordshire Bull Terriers are a hardy breed, they are susceptible to conditions and diseases that are age-related and also common to this breed. You have to be very careful in choosing a breeder when bringing home a Staffie pup. Responsible breeders will do all they can to weed out or minimize the chances of the animal falling prey to genetic conditions such as Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous (PHPV), hereditary cataracts (HC), and L-2 hydroxyglutaric aciduria. Select a pup from a breeder that is willing and able to produce related documents certifying that the parent dogs are free from genetic conditions.

All dog breeds with a short muzzle and a snub-nosed appearance are susceptible to a condition known as brachycephalic syndrome and it's no different with Staffordshire bull terriers. The syndrome can take the form of a number of conditions such as elongated soft palate, stenotic nares and everted laryngeal saccules. It results in difficulty in breathing. Surgical treatment can usually correct the situation.

As mentioned above, HC and PHPV are two genetic conditions that you have to guard against. Of these, the HC gene is found only if both parents are carriers. PHPV is inherited through a complex pattern. The animal is born with it; however, it is not a progressive condition.

Urolithiasis is a condition in which crystals block the flow of urine at different points in the urinary tract. It is a painful condition that can lead to bleeding during urination. The animal can become weak, appear depressed, and lose appetite. Proper diet, medicines, and surgery are the possible treatment options.

Hip dysplasia occurs due to age and wearing out of the hip joint. It is also possible that the problem may be present from an early age due to improperly formed hip joints. A worn out femur and pelvic socket arrangement in elderly Staffordshire bull terriers can cause them to walk with a limp and with great difficulty. It is a painful condition. Diet and medication can help to alleviate the condition.

L-2 hydroxyglutaric Aciduria is a condition in which the substance L-2 does not get metabolized instead it builds up in the animal's plasma and blood stream. This neuro-metabolic disorder can lead to seizures and muscle stiffness.

Inherited deafness is an issue with Staffordshire bull terriers with white coats. All dogs belonging to the terrier breed are candidates for skin allergies leading to itchiness and possible skin infection.

Remember, your Staffordshire Bull Terrier may never have to experience any of these issues if you are alert when purchasing a pup and keep taking it to the vet at timely intervals for checkups and preventive measures.