In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about the American Staffordshire Terrier breed (also known as the AmStaff or American Staffy).
This breed, most of the time, is preceded by its reputation (mischievous), and it is that the American Staffordshire Terrier has a reputation for being aggressive and violent, despite what people who have this breed as a companion say that it is a very calm dog.
It has this fame because there have been people who have encouraged their aggressiveness, and in this case, it can become an uncontrollable dog. Let us not forget that one of his distinguishing features is his powerful jaw.
Let's get started... What basic data do you need to know?
- Height at the shoulder: 14–16 inches.
- Weight in the range of 24–38 pounds
- The coat can be of any color, and even of several layers mixed together.
- It is considered a medium-sized breed.
The history of the American Staffordshire Terrier
We admit it, the origin of this breed is quite complex! The breed comes from the Old English Bulldog and Old English Terrier breeds. The result of this crossing gave the first specimens of the breed.
In the beginning, this breed was used for dog and bull fighting (illegal activities). Nowadays, they are used as pets.
Is the American Staffordshire Terrier considered an aggressive breed?
The behavior of the breed The American Staffordshire Terrier is characterized by dogs that are brave, resistant, strong, tenacious, and somewhat stubborn. These are all characteristics that have made them fighting dogs. But the difference is in education! If trained the right way, these dogs will always be friendly to both animals and humans.
Another characteristic is that he is a protective dog, both with his family and with his home.
What does an American Staffordshire dog look like?
The American Staffordshire Terrier breed is characterized by muscular, very agile, and elegant dogs. Its coat is short and hard, but remember that it can be any shade! In general, at the moment, this breed is still in the process of having its ears clipped.
How to Care for an American Staffordshire Terrier
The best thing to do is to start training your dog at a young age to avoid future problems.
Do you like to go for a walk? Great! Since it is strongly recommended for staffies to exercise every day.
What extra care does an American Staffordshire Terrier need? You are in luck! The aesthetic maintenance of this breed is not very demanding. What do we recommend?
- Weekly brushing
- Bathing every 6-8 weeks
- Clean your Staffy's eyes, teeth, and ears as needed.
- Visit your veterinarian to keep your vaccines up to date.
Common Staffy Health Issues
This breed has good health! However, it also comes with certain risks, including the following:
- Heart problems
- Hip dysplasia
- Luxating patella
- Elbow dysplasia
- Urinary tract infections
- Cerebellar ataxia
- Skin allergies
What do I need to know before getting a Staffy?
The first thing to consider is the professionalism of the kennel. However, buying a puppy online has some risks. What do we recommend at Dogalyo?
- Ask him all your questions! If you are a breeder of the breed, you must know all its characteristics perfectly.
- Check to see if the breeder knows any details about the puppy's temperament (restless, nervous, calm, etc.). He will give you many clues about how he treats them and will get involved with them.
- Do you know anyone who recommends it? Have you read any recommendations and/or reviews?
- If you're looking for a pedigree puppy, don't forget to make sure he has it in order! A puppy's pedigree is very cheap, so don't accept excuses!
- Do you know anything about the health of the puppy's parents? Does he provide you with an up-to-date introduction?
- Is the breeder ready to show you his facilities?
- If the breeder tries to sell you a tiny puppy, remember! Puppies must stay with their mothers for at least two months. Do you want to sell it to yourself first?
Remember! The American Staffordshire Terrier is considered a dangerous dog.
What do you think of this breed? Do you dare to be a part of your life?