Are you looking to get one of the most courageous and muscular dog breeds for a pet? If so, then you cannot go wrong with the American Staffordshire Terrier. One look at the latter and you will know that they are a very sturdy dog breed. Still, there are a couple of things that you need to know about them before you decide to raise one as a canine companion.

Appearance:

American Staffordshire Terriers (also known as AmStaff) are known for having one of the largest bone structures than most of the other dog breeds in comparison to their weight and size. They can grow up to 19 inches in height and weigh as much as 60 lbs which makes them significantly more prominent than their cousins - the American Pit Bull Terrier.

Amstaffs are classified as a medium-sized dog with closed lips and rounded sides. Their muzzle grows in proportion to the head and has strong jaws with scissor biting teeth. These dogs have dark round eyes and high pointy ears (if cropped) although most owners prefer them uncropped. They sport a smooth and shiny coat that comes in all colors which can be either solid or patched.

History:

The American Staffordshire Terrier has its roots in Staffordshire England (hence the name). Their ancestors were first bred in the 1800s using a mix of bulldogs and terriers to come up with a highly muscular offspring as they are known for today. Like all variations of the Bulldog and bull terrier breeds, ancestors of the Amstaffs were created as a fighting dog for all sorts of blood sports all of which has since been outlawed.

By the 1850s, immigrants to the United States brought with them their Staffordshire Terriers. Eventually, American Staffordshire Terriers were born out of the desire of breeders to create an even larger version of the dog breed. Today, the American Kennel Club recognizes them as a separate dog breed distinct from that of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

 

Temperament:

Amstaffs are highly energetic and sociable dogs, unlike that of their ferocious ancestors. Owners often describe them as smart and good-natured which makes them ideal as family pets. They are good around children although parents need to watch over them as they are relatively large dogs.

American Staffordshire Terrier is very protective of their masters and makes excellent guard dogs due to their bold nature and brawny appearance.

 

Potential health problems:

Although Amstaffs belong to a healthy and very hardy dog breed, they are susceptible to certain health conditions which include the following:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Congenital heart disease
• Tumors
• Cataracts
• Thyroid problems

Care and Grooming

Amstaffs are one of the simplest dog breeds to care for and brushing once a week is more than sufficient to keep their coat clean and healthy.

People looking to get an American Staffordshire Terrier should know that they are a very athletic dog breed and hence requires plenty of exercise. Just having a big yard is not going to cut it -- Amstaffs thrive on activities that allow them to bond with their owners. Also, they enjoy participating in canine sports such as obedience and agility training.

Our American Staffordshire Terrier Calendars can make an ideal gift for a dog owner in your life and can be used equally well either in a home or in an office setting to evoke this breed’s grace and strength.