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 American Staffordshire Terrier Information and Picture
Dog Breed Group
Terrier Group
History and Origin
American Staffordshire Terrier, Amstaff ancestors are originated from Staffordshire, England and brought to United States during the 1800s by immigrants. They are called Pit Bull Terrier until AKC registered them as a separate breed -- American Staffordshire Terrier. There are disputes that Pit Bull and AmStaff are the same breed through UKC, however, some other argue that their breeding conformants are long separated to be considered under the same breed. AmStaff is a bulldog/ terrier mix that is created for heavy duty job like hunting, guarding, fighting and protection. After dog fighting is banned, this breed of dogs is selectively bred and has become very receptive to human handling and companionship.
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Temperament
AmStaff is a very intelligient, human-oriented, active dog. One of the characteristic that most owners and breeders talked and look for particular in this breed is gameness. Gameness refers to perseverance, spirited, readyness of a dog to put all out to accomplish a task given. AmStaffs can be very suitable as watchdog, companion and some also guard dog. They are extremely suitable to be with chidren young or older because they have high tolerance to pain. They are not prone to reflex biting and can tolerate accident tail stepping. AmStaff may not be suitable together with small animals and other dogs especially same sex unless socialize from young.
Description (Appearance)
AmStaff should give an expression of strength and agility, never sluggish or leggy. They are extremely strong for their size. The head is broad and powerful, muzzle is moderate in length. Ears are generally cropped; else they are halfly erected, arced to the side. Coat is short, stiff to touch and glossy. All colors are permissible except more than 80% white, black and tan, and liver are not encouraged. By comparing to original Staffordshire Terrier in England, AmStaffs are generally big size and have larger head. And, compare to American Pit Bull Terrier, Amstaff heavier looking and have bigger head.
Size
Height -- Dogs, 17-19 inches. Bitches, 16-18 inches from the withers
Weight -- 57-67 pounds
Living Conditions
AmStaff can like indoor or outdoor. But prefer indoor together with their human companions. Warmer climate is prefered.
Exercise demand
AmStaff is an energetic breed. They need a lot of exercise; you will get tired before they do. However, thsy also varied according to dogs. Some of them just prefer to be couch potatoes.
Health problems
AmStaff is generally a healthy breed. Some may prone to hip dysplasia and eye diseases.
Life Expectancy
About 11 - 15 years.
Grooming
Grooming is easy for AmStaffÕs short-haired coat. Brush regularly with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.
Special Concern
NA
Recognition
FCI, AKC, CKC, NKC, NZKC, CKC, APBR, ANKC, APRI, ACR
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