American Staffordshire Terrier: temperament, size, care and health

About the American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a muscular, stocky dog that stands about 17 to 19 inches tall and often weighs 40 to 70 pounds. It has a broad head, strongly developed cheek muscles, and a short coat that comes in many colors and patterns. It gives an impression of power and agility rather than bulk.

The breed was developed in the United States from Staffordshire Bull Terrier stock imported from England, and American breeders favored a somewhat larger dog than the original. Today it is kept as a companion, a show dog, and a competitor in weight pulling, dock diving, and obedience events.

Temperament and family life

Well-bred and well-raised dogs are confident, affectionate, and eager to be near their people. They like physical contact and can be goofy and playful at home. They often get along with children they know, but their strength demands supervision, and no young child should be left unattended with any large, energetic dog.

The breed is generally welcoming to strangers when properly socialized. The most important management issue is other dogs: many American Staffordshire Terriers become less tolerant of unfamiliar dogs, especially of the same sex, after maturity. This is a trait of the breed's background and needs planning, with leashes, secure fencing, and careful introductions. Many municipalities and landlords restrict the breed, so check local rules before bringing one home.

Exercise and training

Plan on an hour of strong daily exercise. The dog enjoys running, chasing a flirt pole, swimming, and pulling, and it benefits from tasks that make it think. Chewing is a favorite pastime, and heavy-duty toys are a good investment.

The breed is intelligent and eager but can be strong-willed. Consistent, positive training from puppyhood works well, and basic obedience should be reliable before adolescence. A dog that pulls on the leash is a handful. Socialization with a variety of dogs, people, and places is an ongoing job, not a puppy-class box to tick.

Grooming and shedding

Grooming is simple. A weekly rub with a rubber mitt or soft brush removes loose hair, and the dog sheds lightly to moderately year-round. Bathe occasionally.

Check skin for rashes and hot spots, which are common when allergies are present. Trim the nails regularly, since long nails strain the feet, and wipe the ears as needed. The short coat gives little protection from cold, so a coat helps on winter walks.

Health

American Staffordshire Terriers are usually robust, but several conditions are recognized. Hip and elbow dysplasia and cruciate ligament injuries affect the joints. Hereditary cataracts, a form of cerebellar ataxia that causes coordination problems in young dogs, heart disease, and skin allergies are also reported. Responsible breeders screen hips and elbows and test for the inherited disorders that have DNA tests.

This summary is general information only; a veterinarian is the right source for advice about one American Staffordshire Terrier.

History

The breed is generally traced to the bull-and-terrier dogs of the British Isles, some of which reached America by about 1850. The AKC began registering them in 1936 under the name Staffordshire Terrier, and they were bred toward a show standard separate from the fighting lines. The name American Staffordshire Terrier was adopted in 1969. They are distinct from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier, which is not an AKC breed.

Is the American Staffordshire Terrier right for you?

This breed suits capable, committed owners who want a loyal, physical dog and will invest in socialization and training. It is not suited to people who cannot manage a strong dog, who live where the breed is restricted, or who expect to leave a dog with free access to other pets.

For a smaller, similar dog look at the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or consider the Boxer for a family-oriented working dog with a different temperament. The Bull Terrier is another option for people who enjoy the type.