United States of America
Bull baiting. Hunting wild pigs, bears and other large game.
Terrier
Dog, 43cm-48cm. Bitch, 41cm-46cm
.
Both, 25kg-30kg
.
9-15 years
The American Staffordshire Terrier needs plenty of daily exercise without which they will become bored and destructive. They make excellent jogging partners and love swimming.
A hardy dog that thrives on a home prepared diet. No special nutritional requirements.
The American Staffordshire Terrier can suffer from hereditary cataracts and hip dysplasia. Only purchase from reputable breeders to avoid health issues.
The overall appearance of the Amstaff dog is one of a strong, muscular yet agile dog with an almost human-like grin. The head is broad with a short muzzle and very strong jaws and well-pronounced cheeks. The eyes are round and dark, the ears erect and the neck is muscular and slightly arched. The short body is stocky with well sprung ribs and a deep chest. The tail is short and set low tapering to a point. The coat is short and close and the coat colours are any colour, solid, parti, or patched. There should be no more than 80% white. The American Staffordshire Terrier is heavier and more stocky than its cousins, The English Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier.
American Staffordshire Terrier Dog Breed Summary:
It was from the English Staffordshire Terrier, brought to America around 1870, that the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier evolved.
Both dogs were destined to be misunderstood and maligned due to their fighting heritage so much so that in some cities in the US they are considered to be dangerous dogs and are banned.
 This is far from true as over the past 50 years dedicated breeders have produced an American Staffordshire Terrier that is trustworthy, loyal and friendly, and it's a dog that enjoys a reputation of being excellent with children.
They are however highly protective of their family and will fight if they feel threatened. This dog has a high tolerance to pain and does not know when to stop fighting, other than at the point of death.
It is for this reason and because of their tendency to be stubborn and wilful that they need an owner with a full understanding of the breed's requirements and who can train the dog in a firm and consistent manner.
The owner must also be of a dominant character to establish their role as a leader.
A well-balanced and even-tempered dog that with the right owner will make an excellent family pet, so long as discipline and rules are administered constantly from as early as possible using firmness but a gentle and respectful approach.
This dog will not tolerate an abusive owner, and although it may become subservient to such an owner, being as loyal as any other breed of dog, the abuse will bring about a character of unpredictability and defensive reactions, which will make a dog like this a liability to every person it comes into contact with.
Treat this dog with the respect it deserves, and you will have a dog which respects you and those you introduce it to.
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