breed Library > Dog > American Staffordshire Terrier

Description

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a breed of dog. The breed is descended from American dog fighting breeds and was intended to be a show strain of the American Pit Bull Terrier. American Staffordshire Terriers were first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1936.

Proportions

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a large dog that ranges from 16 to 19 inches at the withers, and weighs from 57 to 67 pounds. The dog is muscular and strong, and gives the impression of great strength and agility for his size. The chest is deep and broad, and the neck is heavy. The dog has a broad skull, pronounced cheek muscles, and strong jaws. The ears may be half prick, rose, or cropped. The coat is short and glossy and can be of any color although all white, mostly white, liver, and black and tan are not encouraged. The nose must be black.

Personality

These dogs should be courageous, tenacious, friendly, extremely attentive, and extraordinarily devoted. Originally an all-around farm dog, hunter, and family companion, American Staffordshire Terriers should be highly stable around both children and other domesticated animals (such as livestock). Their absorption into the abusive practise of dog fighting lends many a propensity toward dog/animal aggression; however, their adaptability, inherent friendliness, handler devotion, and fearlessness makes this an easy issue to correct, even in dogs (usually not actual, registered American Staffordshire Terriers but dogs labelled as "pit bulls") that have been bred and trained to fight.

The American Staffordshire Terrier temperament is not ideal for every owner or family. These dogs learn quickly from the subtlest of our behaviors. They are thus not only highly responsive during training but also apt to pick up unwanted behaviors that we subtly and unintentionally encourage. Rescuers often encounter behavior problems such as barking, submissive urination, aggression, and dominance that were directly encouraged by well-intentioned but ignorant owners.

Things to Note

Areas which have passed breed specific legislation banning or restricting the ownership of Pit Bulls and "pit bull type" dogs usually include the American Staffordshire Terrier in this legislation.

Special Talents

Watchdog, guarding, police work, weight pulling, and agility.