Stocky and muscular, the American Staffordshire Terrier, popularly known as Amstaff, is a medium-sized dog characterized by a broad head, well-pronounced jaws, prominent cheekbones, dark, round, well, set eyes, short, half pricked or rose ears, strong shoulders, and a low set tail tapered to a point. They are a different breed and a taller version of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier which has its roots in the United Kingdom.
Other names | Staffy, Staffie, Stafford, Staff, Am Staff, Amstaff, American Staffy |
Coat | Short, close, glossy, stiff |
Color | Black, blue, black brindle, blue brindle, blue fawn, blue fawn brindle, bronze, brown brindle, fawn, fawn brindle, fawn sable, liver, liver brindle, red, red brindle, red sable, seal brown, white (markings of black mask, blue mask, patched, spotted, tan points, white markings, white mask) |
Breed type | Purebred |
Group | Terriers |
Average lifespan | 12 to 16 years |
Size (How big do they get) | Medium |
Height of a full grown Amstaff | Male: 18 to 19 inches; Female: 17 to 18 inches |
Weight of a full grown Amstaff | Male: 55 to 70 pounds; Female: 40 to 55 pounds |
Litter size | 5 to 10 puppies |
Behavioral traits | Gentle, affectionate, intelligent, outgoing, loyal |
Good with children | Yes |
Barking tendency | Minimal (only on hearing or sensing something unusual) |
Climate compatibility | Tolerant to temperate climate, though most comfortable indoors |
Shedding (Do they shed) | Minimal |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Competitive Registration Qualification/Information | AKC, CKC, ANKC, NZKC, FCI, ACA, ANKC, APBR, DRA, NAPR, NKC |
Country | U.S.A |
The breeds of bull origin were initially popular for all the wrong reasons since they were pitted against each other in the fighting ring or even with bulls and bears. Post the period when dog fighting was deemed illegal in England, enthusiasts had come forward to create a kind possessing the stocky built and fierce jaws of the bulldog alongside the courage, gameness, and agility of the terrier. The Staffordshire Bull terrier was a product of this endeavor. Upon its arrival to the United States of America, breeders attempted to create a dog that was a little larger as well as heavier than its English counterpart. The new dogs were a breed of its own and distinct from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, with AKC also registering both separately. Their numbers lessened after World War II, and in 2013 it ranked 81st in AKC’s list of the U.S.’ popular breeds.
Though they share the Bull Terrier’s bloodlines, these dogs are not as aggressive as the latter but much mellowed and subdued compared to the latter. It is because of their lineage that they are thought to be dangerous, but in actuality, they have known to excel as great companion dogs.
Countries banning breeds of the bull and terrier families have imposed restrictions on the possession and ownership of these dogs too. The list of countries where owning an Amstaff is limited or forbidden are as follows:
They are a people-oriented breed, loving to spend time with their near and dear ones. The Amstaff is best suited in households where someone of the other is always present to cater to their needs as prolonged loneliness could make them bored and destructive. They are reputed for their guarding skills, but as per those who dwell with the Amstaff, these dogs are not always wary with strangers and even end up licking or greeting them warmly. However, to justify this trait of theirs many owns have admitted that these digs can judge a person well, possessing the ability to distinguish a foe from a friend, which makes them excellent watchdogs. They share a comfortable rapport with kids but are suitable for homes with children above six years of age. Since their ancestors have the reputation of fighting dogs, they good be quite reserved or aggressive towards other canines unless socialized. They could perceive cats and smaller pets as their prey and might go after them, especially if they do not belong to its family.
They are an intelligent and cooperative dog and could grasp the training process well, provided the trainer is firm and tactful in his approach.
Note: They have an inherent fighting and territorial instinct, hence even if it is socialized never leave it unsupervised and unleashed with other dogs.
Dry dog food of a high quality sans any colorings and preservatives would be an apt choice for your pet. If you intend to add homemade food to its kibble. make sure it does not exceed 10% of its daily diet.