American Staffordshire Terrier

AmStaff, Staffy
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The American Staffordshire Terrier, also known as AmStaff or Staffy, is a courageous, loyal and intelligent breed, originally developed in the US for bull-baiting and dog fighting. This medium-sized dog is affectionate with its family, but requires early socialization and training due to its potential for aggression towards other dogs and a strong prey drive.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in the United States in the 19th century
  • Descended from crosses between bulldogs and terriers
  • Originally bred for bull-baiting and dog fighting
  • Later used as farm dogs, companions, and guard dogs

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female16-18 inches40-55 pounds
Male17-19 inches55-70 pounds

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Any color
  • Solid colors
  • Parti-colors
  • Brindle
  • Patches of colors
Type
  • Short
  • Smooth
Length
  • Short

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate
Grooming
  • Weekly
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Medium length
  • Deep
  • Broad skull
Skull
  • Broad
Ears
  • Set high
  • Cropped or uncropped
  • Rose or semi-prick
Eyes
  • Round
  • Set wide apart
  • Dark in color
Nose
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Medium length
  • Well-defined
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Slightly arched
  • Powerful
  • Muscular
Forequarters
  • Shoulders are muscular and sloping
Fore Legs
  • Straight
  • Strong
Hindquarters
  • Well-muscled
  • Broad
Hind Legs
  • Well-angulated
  • Muscular
Feet
  • Moderate size
  • Well arched
  • Compact
Tail
  • Short
  • Low set
  • Tapered
Gait
  • Agile
  • Smooth
  • Powerful

Temperament

  • Courageous
  • Loyal
  • Confident
  • Affectionate
  • Intelligent
  • Good-natured
  • Can be stubborn if not trained properly

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Yes
Good with Children
  • Generally good
  • Supervision required
Good with Dogs
  • Can be aggressive
  • Early socialization is necessary
Good with Cats
  • Can be good with proper training and introduction
  • Prey drive should be considered
Openness to Strangers
  • Varies
  • May be wary
Playfulness Level
  • High
Protective Nature
  • High
Adaptability Level
  • Moderate

Working Roles

  • Companion
  • Watchdog
  • Guard dog

Exercise Needs

  • High
  • Daily exercise is needed
  • Needs mental stimulation

Health

  • Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Cerebellar ataxia
  • Heart disease
  • Skin allergies

Additional Notes

  • Early socialization and training are crucial
  • Strong bite
  • Requires a responsible owner
  • Not recommended for novice owners

References