American Stratfordshire Terrier

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: United States

Group: Terrier

Height: males 17-19 in., females 16-18 in.

Weight: 57-67 lbs.

Life span: 9-15 yrs.

Trainability: high

Good with children: yes with early socialization

Good with other pets: may be dog aggressive

What is the origin of the American Staffordshire Terrier?

The Staffordshire Terrier, named for its English origins in the area of Staffordshire was bred by crosses of the Bulldog and various Terriers. The American Staffordshire Terrier is larger and heavier than the English version. The Am Staff, as it is known, and the American Pit Bull Terrier, while cousins, are separate breeds. They were both developed in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The Pit Bull at that time was bred to be ferocious, but today both breeds are bred for gentleness. It’s very important to acquire this breed from a reliable breeder.

What does the American Staffordshire Terrier look like?

Am Staffs are muscular, stocky dogs. Heigh for males is 17-19 inches, females, 16-18 inches. Weight is between 57-67 lbs. Ears can be natural rose-shaped or cropped where this practice continues. Eyes are dark and rounded. The tail is relatively short and tapers to a point. The coat lies close to the body, is thick and stiff. All colors and combinations are available, but white should be less than 80% of coloring. Special gloves to clean short-haired dogs can be used regularly.

What is the temperament of the American Staffordshire Terrier?

The Am Staff is an intelligent dog, happy and confident. It is easily trained, but should have early obedience training and socialization. The Am Staff is very good with children and affectionate towards adults as well. This dog needs a firm but even-handed owner who shows he is the pack leader. Consistency is very important. Some, with early socialization, will get along with other dogs. But care should be taken. The Am Staff will protect its loved ones to the death. They adapt to living in apartments as long as they have enough exercise. They require vigorous, long daily walks with you as leader.

What is the American Staffordshire Terrier used for?

The Am Staff has many uses and performs well as a watchdog and a guard dog. It has been used in police work, weight pulling and agility trials. The Am Staff is extremely loyal and protective of its family.

Possible Health Issues

Hypothyroidism, entropion, cleft palate, osteochondritis dissecans, cataract, progressive retinal atropy