American Staffordshire Terrier 

Photo by Ula Kapala

The American Staffordshire Terrier originating from the United States, came to be by breeding Bulldogs and Terriers, and were originally named the Bull-and-Terrier Dog, or Half and Half, and sometimes they were even called Pit Dog or Pit Builterrier. In England, where the breed was being standarized, they later became known as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier by local breeders. Oddly, the breed underwent yet a few more name changes before finally being  known, and recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club), as the American Staffordshire Terrier since their registration with the organization in 1936.

The American Staffordshire Terrier has a reputation, somewhat unjustly, as being a destructive and agressive breed. Most of this comes down to poor breeding practices, and a lot of it is caused by improper training from their owners. Because the dogs are pre-disposed to being destructive and agressive, extra training, and firm, assertive leadership is key to successfully owning this breed, and I do not advise this breed for the inexperienced pet owner, or a multi-pet home. Having said that, American Staffordshire Terriers can be wonderful, loving and devoted pets to the right owner, and, or family, and if properly socialized they can tolerate other pets in the house - but don't expect them to be the best of friends.

The breed is good for those with mild allergies, as they are low shedders, and their grooming requirements are minimal. In fact, brushing 1-2x per week to remove dead hair, and a wipe down with a damp cloth or shammie are all that is needed to keep their coats in tip-top shape. I recommend you read Dog Grooming 101 to see the general care and maintenance needed by most dogs, to get a better understanding of what is recommended for nail clipping, eye cleaning, etc.

The American Staffordshire Terrier can also be a very playful breed. While they can live in an apartment if they are taken out for daily exercise, they really are better off in a home with a secure yard that they can play in. I find that American Staffordshire Terriers, or Amstaffs for short, have less agression when given enough daily exercise, and they are much less prone to destructive behavior. Always remember the old adage, "A tired dog, is an obedient one." This is very true of this breed. Now, this doesn't mean that you need to run this dog ragged in order for him/her to behave, or be well-adjusted. It simply means that coupled with good training, proper socialization, and dog obedience lessons this breed will greatly benefit from the incorporation of daily exercise.

The American Staffordshire Terrier can be a great dog for someone that has the time, and necessary leadership experience to devote to this very special breed.  When in the right care, it is amazing to see how an Amstaff will bloom into a loving, intelligent, and devoted dog!