American Staffordshire Bull Terrier

American Staffordshire Bull Terrier

American Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Why do I need to know?

It is important to know as much as possible about your potential pets or common traits your dog may have.  Here at Rose Cottage we make it our priority to ensure we have the knowledge and we want to share that with you.  

There are some breeds we are unable to take, which is much to our regret, but we have to make sure every dog can enjoy the facilities here at Rose Cottage.  The way we care for your dogs would make it impossible to offer this to some breeds, due to the nature of the dog breed, but also the care that breed may need.     

We will always recommend the best, to our knowledge, place to take your baby.  If we find we are unable to take your dog.

About

The American Staffordshire bull terrier is an early cousin of the American Pit Bull Terrier but has distinct differences in size and appearance. He has a larger, heavier look, though he shares the American Pit Bull Terrier’s legendary loyalty. 

History

American Staffordshire bull terrier’s  were bred in the United States in the late 1800s, using Staffordshire terriers imported from England.  By breeding this foundation stock with other terriers, a larger dog was achieved, forming the American Staffordshire bull terrier.

Like the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire bull terrier was originally used in bull baiting and dogfighting.  But, quickly transitioned into working roles around the farm, military, and even on movie sets.

Description

American Staffs are between 17 and 19 inches at the shoulder.  Their height and weight are proportionate.  They generally weigh between 40 and 75 pounds.  His build should be athletic, muscular, and stocky and he should never have a leggy look.

The American Staffs head is broad with a full muzzle and wide-set, dark eyes.  His ears sit high and may rise or rest half-risen.  But per the standard, should never hang.  His neck is strong with no loose skin, tapering to powerful shoulders, a short back, and a low-hanging, thin tail.

The American Staffs coat is short and glossy with a stiff, pricked texture.  Unlike American Pit Bull’s, American Staffs aren’t labelled with the “red nose” and “blue nose” titles, as all American Staffs have black noses, per the standard.

Colours

American Staffs are acceptable in a rainbow of colours and patterns according to AKC standards, though full-body white, liver, or black and tan aren’t favoured. 

Common Health Issues

The American Staffs is a relatively healthy breed whose lifespan falls between 12 and 14 years, typically. He is susceptible to a few health concerns, however, such as:

  • Congenital heart disease
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Luxating patella
  • Spondylosis
  • Thyroid disease
  • Cerebellar ataxia
  • Skin sensitivities and allergies

Breed Registries

  • American Kennel Club (AKC)

What to expect from an American Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The American Staff is a confident breed and is full of courage.  But at home, he can be a goofball.

He adores his family and is eager to please and play, requiring a good amount of daily attention.  He isn’t a dog who can handle being ignored or left outside.  So, make sure you’re ready to commit to a loveable, attention-hungry cutie.

He needs firm, consistent training from an early age with plenty of high-value rewards on hand.  This includes socialisation with dogs, people, and other pets, along with regular obedience work.  He loves nothing more than making his humans happy, but he is sensitive and should never be corrected harshly if he steps out of line. 

He has a healthy prey drive, too, so keep your American Staff on a leash at all times when he’s outside of fenced areas.

American Staff’s don’t require a great deal of grooming with their short coats.  But you should wash him as needed and monitor his ears and toes for signs of sensitivity.  He doesn’t shed a ton, but he may drool.

Your American Staff’s is a working dog at heart, and while he isn’t opposed to lounging around and catching up on Netflix with you, he should be walked daily and have regular play sessions to burn off his energy.

Not only will ongoing exercise help him feel his best, but it can also help maintain his weight (these pooches can pack on the pounds if you’re not careful).

Lots of Love

I hope that has given you some food for thought.  Learn more about us here at Rose Cottage.

Lots of Love, as always

Join us next time for more top tips on your beautiful dogs and their healthy foods and treats

Dawn, Lilly and Tucker

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