American Staffordshire Terrier Breed Description

An Owner's American Staffordshire Description
Pete is a well built, muscular dog and is extremely loyal and protective. He is such a good natured dog, perfect for our family of four. He simply loves being put in charge of the kids. This he does naturally as he follows his courageous, guard dog instincts.

Pete can be very amusing as he tries to win your affections. He himself is very affectionate and almost always is ready to obey. Pete is one persistent dude. When it comes to protecting his charge, I believe he would fight the enemy to the death if he were forced to. Physically built to fight and with a high tolerance for pain one would think Pete would be a natural fighter. But he's not and really is not an aggressive towards humans. This is what makes him so good for watching over the children.

Some of this breed can demonstrate some aggression towards other dogs if not taught socializing skills from an early age. But once this is done they generally are very well behaved dogs.

Pete was a little difficult to housebreak but with persistence he finally figured it out. When the family was going through obedience training we learned that Pete needed a firm and consistent hand if he was to accept his place within the 'pack'. Once Pete realized that we were higher up in the pecking order he took on his role as family pet and now is ready to please.

He is a very intelligent dog and his quick learning skills attest to that fact. As is the case with most dogs, Pete requires a good deal of attention to be happy. But when Pete is happy, then the whole family is happy.

 

 

Introduction

Originally identical to the British Staffordshire. Bull Terrier, the AmStaff was selectively bred for greater height and weight with a bulkier build. In 1936, these terriers were recognized as a separate breed. American Staffordshire Terriers have a docile, sweet and trustworthy disposition. They need a daily outlet for their boundless energy, preferably long walks on a leash. They are stocky, well-muscled dogs that weigh 57 to 67 lbs and stand 17-19" at the shoulders. Their coat requires minimal care.

History

This American original is the result of the wave of English settlers who came to the US in the 1900s. They crossed England's Staffordshire Bull Terriers with other terriers - particularly the Blue Paul and the Black and Tan Terriers - to produce a more robust farm dog that could be used for a number of different working tasks. Dog fighting was a well-known sport in those days, and these dogs excelled in the ring. Pugnacious like all terriers, they were dog aggressive with little help. They were people loyal and so non-aggressive towards humans that they could be handled by their owners even during fights. These two traits - the love and affection towards humans and intolerance of other dogs - continue to define the breed today. Dog fighting was banned in 1900 and from that point on, two breed lines developed: the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier.

The original breed recognition by the AKC in 1936 didn't denote 'American', it simply said 'Staffordshire Terrier.' The name change came in 1972, necessary to further distance the dogs from their forebears and define them separately from the American Pit Bull. The main distinction of note between the two breeds is easy to remember: Pit bulls are powered by rear wheel (leg) drive; AmStaffs are front wheel (leg) drive.

Educating the public about these devoted and gentle dogs is the first and foremost task for those who love and/or breed them. The unintended inheritance of dog fighting ancestors is an incredible level of patience and tolerance in today's dogs, along with enhanced vitality and tenacity.

In the U.S. Military, the only dog to achieve the rank of Sergeant was an American Staffordshire Terrier named Stubby. He fought in World War I and remains the most decorated dog in the country's history.

Description

AmStaffs are strong looking dogs that radiate physical power this alone causes people to (mistakenly) fear them. They are broad chested and stocky. Square headed with short muzzles, they have round black eyes. Thanks to neat lips that fully close and the lack of dewlaps, AmStaffs do not drool like many other bulldogs. Their square jaw contains a scissors bite. Muscular legs are the source of their agility. The coat of the American Staffordshire Terrier is glossy and shiny and they are minimal shedders. Coat colors include blue and white, black and white, fawn and white, red and white and brindle and white. With little body fat and such a short coat, AmStaffs do not do well in cold weather. They readily thrive in warm climates.

Temperament

American Staffordshire Terriers have been conscientiously bred to be devoted family dogs. Yet their terrier heritage and brute strength requires owners to quickly and continually socialize these dogs for them to recognize their place in the family pack and to correctly recognize their job as guardian.

Obedience training is a must. The cutest little AmStaff puppy is going to be an extremely strong dog. They recognize pack order and must know their place in it. Owners must firmly and consistently assert their authority as leader of the pack.

In the final analysis, these are terriers. They are eager to please and extremely loving, and they willingly respond to just about any request if they know it will please a person they love. Like all terriers,, they can be stubborn at times, but correct quickly when owners voice any displeasure. They aim to please and become protective guardians who will respond to threats with no thought of their own safety. Their innate tenacity means they will not stop until the threat is neutralized.

Health and Care

This is a fit and healthy breed overall and has little in the way of inherited health problems. Their sleek coat needs little more than a rub down with a pumice stone to be at its best. Regular nail trimming, bathe only when necessary, and help keep their teeth clean with proper diet. If trained from puppyhood, they might even like a good toothbrushing.

Colors

Black/White, Red/White, Fawn/White, Blue/White, and even Brindle/White.

Living Area

Like many other breeds, the American Staffordshire Terrier will be quite content with apartment or small house living so long as they get enough exercise. Even if you don't have a yard, this breed will be happy, as they can be active indoors and keep their fitness levels up. Because of their thinner coat and sensitive skin, it's best that the American Staffordshire Terrier is kept in warmer climates in order to keep them comfortable.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, ACR

Pets4You offers listings of American Staffordshire Terrier breeders with puppies for sale.