American Staffordshire Terrier

Country of origin: USA
Registries: AKC, CKC
Occupation: Guardian, companion
Size: 17 to 19 in tall; 55 to
70 lbs
Longevity: 11 to 13 years
Exercise: Vigorous daily
exercise
Training: Moderate
Grooming: Easy

This breed was created from English Staffordshire Bull Terriers that crossed the Atlantic in the 19th century. The American breeders preferred a heftier dog, and bred for greater height and a bulkier build, resulting in this separate breed being recognized in 1936. Its ears are often cropped in the United States, a practice that is illegal throughout Europe and elsewhere. American Staffordshires were used for dog fighting until this was banned in the United States in 1900. Like the British Staffie, this is a gentle, loyal, and affectionate breed, good with children, but it needs early socialization to curb its instinct to attack other dogs.

American Staffordshire Terrier
History
The “Amstaf”, as these dogs were nicknamed, had many names that classified them. They were initially referred to as the bull and terrier dog or pit bull terrier. The reason being is the obvious cross between a terrier and bulldog. In the 1800s, bulldogs and terriers were bred in England to create the American Staffordshire Terrier of today.

The breed officially made its way to America in 1870 and nearly a century later, the breed became its own. But not before it became a proud member of the AKC in 1936. In 1972, these Staffies were renamed “American Staffordshire Terrier” to be classified separate of its slightly smaller bulldog ancestors.

Personality
The Amstaf is a confident and courageous member of the terrier group. These dogs have a well balanced nature and strive to make their humans happy. They are people-oriented and very loyal. They are great with children and are actually considered to be superb guardian dogs.

Because of their smart and good-natured natures, they are also great for tracking. These American Staffordshires are always conscious of what’s going on around them and are very obedient.

Over all, they are very well-rounded. They simply want to be a member of the family but they aren’t afraid to get their paws dirty with duties.

Traits
The American Staffordshire resembles that of a pitbull and shares an abundance of similarities. They are medium in size and stocky. They tend to be more on the muscular side and they have strong heads. Their short legs attribute them to standing at about 17 to 19 inches tall and they can be up to 60 lbs.

The hair on their sloped backs are short and stiff. The whole coat is of short length and easy to manage. Just like their pitbull counterparts, they can have a multitude of color and pattern combinations. The most typical coat color is a black body with a white chest.

Handling
Since the Staffie has a short, smooth coat, grooming is not a chore. They shed lightly so the grooming recommendation is just as you should with any dog. Check ears regularly for cleanliness and keep an eye on nails for length.

These strong pups need plenty of exercise due to their medium energy levels. They love to spring and bounce around. Digging is one of their favorite past times.

Training your Amstafs are very vital in the health of the breed. These dogs tend to be silly so incorporating fun into training is key. Their strength and confidence can often add up to make them very stubborn. Being firm and loving will help with the training process.

Health
American Staffordshires are generally healthy but can be prone to certain diseases. Some diseases include hip dysplasia, skin allergies, and cardiac diseases. Despite these health issues, they can live a long life with a lifespan of 15 years.

The health of your dog depends on the careful practices of the breeder and regular visits to the vet. Love, maintenance, and regular grooming will keep your Staffie happy and healthy.

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