American Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier History

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier (or “Stafford”) is a medium-sized, muscular, short-coated breed of dog. It is one of the four most common terrier breeds in the United Kingdom, the other three being the Miniature, Smooth, and Wire-haired Fox. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is descended from the Old English Bulldog and the English White Terrier. The breed is believed to have become extinct in the mid-19th century, and it was not until 1936 that a new breeding programme was begun. The Kennel Club recognized the Stafford as a new variety of the now-extinct bull-and-terrier type.

American Staffordshire Terrier Physical Characteristics

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a medium-sized to larger breed of terrier that typically stands between 17 and 22 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 45 and 70 pounds. They have a strong, muscular body and short hair. They have a deep, broad head with a muzzle and jaw that is the same length as the skull. The eyes of this breed are almond-shaped, dark in color, and may be slightly slitted. The ears of this breed are erect, and stand wide apart on the head. The nose is black. They have short legs and a long tail that is carried between the legs. The tail is usually docked. There are five varieties of the AmStaff: the American, American Pit Bull, American Bully, Amstaff (American Miniature), and Rat Terrier.

American Staffordshire Terrier Health

Description of breed health.

American Staffordshire Terrier Temperament and Behaviour

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a strong and determined dog breed with a courageous and loyal personality. They are friendly and good with children, but can be headstrong and stubborn at times. They are intelligent and eager to please, but need firm, consistent training. They are active and need plenty of exercise, but can be stubborn if they don’t get it.

American Staffordshire Terrier Activity Requirements

American Staffordshire Terriers are a high-energy, intelligent, and loyal dog. They are also known as Pit bulls, which is a controversial term that describes the physical appearance of the dog more than it does its personality. American Pit Bull Terriers are a hard-working and athletic breed that need regular exercise and mental stimulation. They are well suited to running alongside a bicycle, jogging, or playing sports such as dock diving or weight pulling. These dogs are very intelligent and will enjoy regular training and challenges. These dogs are good with people and other dogs, but they do have a stubborn streak and can be difficult to train. They do well with other pets if properly socialized from a young age.

Kennel Club Recognition