Top 10 Facts About American Staffordshire Terriers
The American Staffordshire Terrier, also known as an Amstaff, is a true companion breed. Despite their intimidating and powerful appearance, they are incredibly loyal, loving dogs that adore spending time with their humans! This muscular breed is tough on the outside and has a gold heart. They make excellent family pets and have even been known to form strong bonds with small children. To celebrate this wonderful breed, here are some facts about American Staffordshire Terriers that will help you understand why these canines are so popular among pet owners worldwide!
1. American Staffordshire Terriers British Origin
Although still unknown which exact breeds created the American Staffordshire terrier, experts agree that the role played by Bulldogs is significant in their makeup. Other breeds associated with the American Staffordshire terrier are extinct; White English Terrier and Black-and-Tan Terrier.
In Great Britain, various dogs were specifically bred for blood sport- for dog fights. This culture was to satisfy the unworthy desire of many spectators, but thankfully these dog fights have been outlawed. Because of the culture of raising this dog for dog fights, the American Staffordshire terrier has had a bad reputation, as well as its associates like the Mastiff, bulldogs, Pitbull, and Bull Terrier. They have been labeled as an aggressive dog breed. However, they also showed great talent as guard dogs and livestock herders. These dogs came to America in the late 1800s and were initially for dog fight sport but later at home because of their hard-working, gentle nature.
2. Health
The Amstaff breed can have a life expectancy of about 12-16 years. The breed is vulnerable to skin allergies, Urinary tract Infections (UTI) and elbow and hip dysplasia (a condition that causes abnormal wearing of the bone with time) common in older dogs.
3. Personality
According to the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS), Pit bulls have passed the temperament test by 87.4%. They are also:
Smart and have great confidence and courage.
Responsible and can socialize well with people around them.
In addition to loving to exercise and have fun, they also crave their owners' attention. Their endearing and enthusiastic personality makes them ideal family pets. They can quickly learn and are eager to please.
Therefore, their attentiveness to their owner makes them great students.
It is important to note that American Staffordshire Terriers may not get along well with unfamiliar dogs or small pets and can be suspicious of strangers. Therefore, early socialization and training will help them be friendly toward other animals and strangers.
4. Biting
Pit bulls and bully breeds do not have the strongest bite because they do not have the physical characteristics in their jaw that would allow them to lock their jaw. This fact was evident after several peer-reviewed studies. Frontiers in Veterinary Science and Journal of Anatomy analyzed around 140 dog bites related incidents and concluded that a dog's strength in biting is not determined by its breed but by the strength and overall size.
5. Habitat
Pit bulls and bully breeds are kept at home and live in the houses with their owners. These dogs don't have a special habitat requirement and should have timely access to food and water. They are high jumpers and should not be kept where there are short fences.
6. Assistance Capabilities
Many people are stuck with images of all pit bull type dogs as aggressive. However, AmStaffs can make great therapy dogs and assistance animals due to their loyalty and ability to be in-tune with their owner and their friendly nature.
7. Ideal Human Owner
If you have plans of adopting an American Stafford sheer terrier, research its traits and personality to know how the dog can fit into your household. Some qualities make them loyal and protective alike.
8. Staffy Appearance
The American Staffordshire terrier is larger than the pit bull- but many authorities recognize these two as the same breed. These dogs measure about 18 inches at the shoulder and weigh around 50-70 pounds of muscle. The muscle build gives them their famous stocky look. This dog sports a short, shiny coat that requires low maintenance.
The facial shape of these dogs gives you hints of their bulldog relatives. Just like different terrier breeds, American Staffordshire terriers can come in every color and marking you can imagine.
9. Training an American Staffordshire Terrier
Training your American Staffordshire terrier is a real treat if you have had a hard time before training other breeds. These dogs are smart, enthusiastically eager to please, and love new challenges. The training for this breed should begin with obedience and socialization— these two aspects lay a key foundation for the dog’s education and well-being. Although they may excel at certain activities, they possess a few pesky vices that can be challenging to break. For example, they are prone to digging and chewing (and not just when they are puppies but even when they are all grown).
10. Nutrition
American Staffordshire Terriers will thrive well on a high-quality diet appropriate for their life stage. Ensure you monitor how much the dog eats and reduce portions if your dog starts gaining too much weight. Also, remember to count calories from treats- they should make up at most 10% of a dog's caloric intake.
Final Thoughts
So, if you’re convinced that an American Staffordshire Terrier is the right dog for you and your family, congratulations! You’re in for a lot of fun and love. Before you bring your new puppy home, be sure to book a consultation with our team so that we can help get you started on the right foot. As a Behavior Consultant specifically for bully breeds, we know how to set both you and your pup up for success. Visit Atlanta Pit Bull Training to get started today!
