A Stafford is muscular but agile, and the AKC says good breeding turned a former gladiator into a playful, energetic and sometimes boisterous companion with a special affection for kids.
Dense muscle, compact frame
The AKC says Staffords pour a gallon of dog into a quart-size container: males run 28 to 38 pounds and females 24 to 34. For that much dog in a compact package, Economy has what he needs, and the Kuranda bed gives that muscle a raised place to rest.
Because Staffords do not stand particularly tall, they do not need the extra floor space bigger breeds do. If you bring two from the same home, they can share one run.
Exercise, then a nap
The AKC says a Stafford needs regular exercise to stay mentally and physically fit, such as chasing a ball across a yard, running with a jogger, or a hike. It adds that a Stafford in good condition usually settles right in after a good session. That is a good fit for a day here: walks are included, the large fenced play areas have ramps and tunnels, and there is a grass field.
Tell us what he likes to chase. Staffords are intelligent, learn easily and have an ardent desire to please, says the AKC, and a toy from home helps him feel at ease. Send one, not the favorite.
Warm weather is the one to watch
The AKC says the breed can be heat intolerant and should never be overworked in warm or humid weather. Dixon summers are hot, so the air-conditioned inside half of the run is where he can cool down. In winter the runs are heated, which a short, tight-fitting coat appreciates.
The coat and a bath
The AKC says a Stafford stays handsome with occasional baths and a weekly brushing with a horsehair mitt or hound glove. The extra short column of the 2024 bath chart fits that tight coat: $30 at 16 to 25 pounds and $35 at 26 to 50 pounds. This is the chart effective January 1, 2024, so please ask to confirm. See the baths page.
Check-in, with gentle handling
The AKC says Staffords can be quite sensitive despite a tough look, and respond best to positive handling. Keep hand-offs calm; any metal pinch (prong) collar must come off before check-in, and a flat collar or harness is easiest. Pets must be 16 weeks or older, with rabies, distemper/parvo and Bordetella current. Canine influenza is recommended but not required.
Costs by the night
One Stafford in Economy is $52 a night, so 4 nights is $208 and 7 nights is $364. At 14 nights or more the rate is $47 a night, which is $658 for 14. Active military pay that same $47 rate; the rate sheet does not list the discounts as combining, so call 707-678-6600 to confirm. A second dog from the same home sharing the run is $44. House food and medications are included at no extra charge.