Origin

Huge debates have been triggered regarding the origin of this breed. It is said that American Staffordshire Terrier and American Pit Bull Terrier belong to the same breed. Still they are recognised and registered as the same breed but they are bred to have the same quality. They evolved in the 19th centuries from Staffordshire. This breed was actually bred from the bull and terrier types.

General Description

The American Staffordshire Terrier is strong and powerful. It is short, stout, muscular and athletic. It has a broad head and erect cropped ears. The Staffordshire terriers have round black eyes, tapering tail and sharp teeth which are enough for a scissor bite. They have a thick, short shiny coat and they are found in variety of colours.

Character

The American Staffordshire Terrier were basically used for sport like dog fighting. Basically American Staffordshire Terriers are devoted to their master and gentle and loving in nature. They are the sole companion of their master provided he is dominant and experienced in keeping pets. They are excellent guard dogs and they are also very much protective of their families and homes. The American Staffordshire Terrier are very much well behaved to strangers and they also remain happy and excellent towards children. This breed is very obedient and always want to please others. This is an intelligent , brave and trustworthy breed.

Temperament

The American Staffordshire Terrier has a very stable temperament and that’s why they make a great companion. They are very good to children but they should not be left alone with children as it is a very strong and powerful breed. They are excellent to other dogs but a watch should always be kept on their temperament. These dogs are very confident and easy to deal with. They are very loyal in nature and are a real good companion to their masters. Sometimes they are very destructive and aggressive due to bad breeding but that does not happen always. Generally the American Staffordshire Terriers are good to strangers but mainly their behaviour toward strangers vary. Sometimes they are good but sometimes they are also reserved and protective.

Training

The American Staffordshire Terrier is very difficult to train as they are a very energetic breed. In spite of being an intelligent breed they are very much adamant in nature. For this reason a firm training is required from a dominant and experienced trainer. Training should be started from an early age otherwise it would be very late once they grow old.

Health

The American Staffordshire Terrier is generally a healthy breed compared to other breeds. But they are sometimes affected by some very known diseases like hip dysplasia, eye cataract and heart problems. Their average life span is 9-15 years and their average litter rate is 5-10.