American Staffordshire Terrier
Quick facts
 |
AKC Group: | Terrier |
| Height: | Male: 17 – 19 inches, Female: 16 – 18 inches | |
| Weight: | Male: 55 – 65 pounds, Female: 50 – 55 pounds | |
| Colors: | any color, partial and combination (80% white discouraged) | |
| AKC recognized in: | 1936 | |
Originating from the Staffordshire during the 19th century, breeders in the area crossed several breeds including those from the terrier and bulldog family in order to produce the American Staffordshire terrier.
When it was introduced in the United States however, it was further bred to possess a stockier and more muscular and powerfully built body. This produced the American Staffordshire Terrier we know today.
Boasting a build that conveys strength, this breed possesses a surprisingly enormous physical power. And although it is not a particularly large dog given its small frame of only around 17 to 19 inches in height among males, the force it can exert will betray its size.
As such, its natural physical prowess combined with its agility and active nature made it very adept to physical activities. These include physically demanding games and exercises like jogging and walking.
The American Staffordshire Terrier has got quite an intimidating look, partially thanks to its high-set ears that point upward as though they are short horns. It also has a rather large face set with a stern and cleanly lined mouth that hardly shows any gaps when closed.
It also has a short coat which can vary in color and pattern. Some are patched and some are dominated by a single color. And although any color pattern is acceptable, the AKC group says it should never be mostly white, that is to say, 4/5 of the dog’s body area.
Temperament
| Affection |  |
| Cold Tolerance | |
| Ease of Training | |
| Energy level | |
| Exercise Requirements | |
| Friendliness : Children | |
| Friendliness: Other Animals | |
| Friendliness: Other Pets | |
| Grooming Requirements | |
| Heat Tolerance | |
| Playfulness | |
| Protection Ability | |
| Watchdog Ability | |
Not to be mistaken with the Pit Bull Terrier which is primarily bred as a fight dog, the American Staffordshire terrier is bred as a show dog. Although these two are technically cousins, they are considered as separate breeds by the AKC.
As such, the American Staffordshire Terrier is often accused of having a violent temperament. This is mostly attributed to reported human attacks of Pit Bulls, although the Pit Bull breed is also considerably peaceful given the right training.
So contrary to some circulating false information, this breed is actually very affectionate, loving, gentle and peaceable around people. In fact, they make perfect companions even to children.
If there is any violent tendency to this breed, it only arises from its protective nature. An American Staffordshire terrier will fight to the death in order to protect its owner family. This makes them perfect property guards.
Otherwise, this breed is very outgoing, happy, playful and eager to please others. And should you want to suppress all possibilities of aggressiveness, exposing your American Staffordshire terrier to socializing at early age should do the trick.
Health and Exercise
The American Staffordshire Terrier has a life expectency of between 9 and 15 years.
As common to dog breeds of such physical stature, the American Staffordshire terrier requires regular exercise and exposure to physical activities. If you have a jogging schedule, you should consider taking your dog with you.
When it comes to grooming, the short-haired coat of this breed will pose little problem. This dog does not shed heavily and maintenance is expected to be easier. But regular grooming with a bristle and dry shampooing will keep its coat shiny and presentable.
Although generally a healthy breed, disorders and diseases it is usually prone to include eye problems such as cataracts, skin allergies, thyroid related disorders, hip dysplasia, and certain heart problems. By communicating and checking regularly with your vet, you can avoid these problems.
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