Dogs - American Staffordshire Terrier Breed
The American Staffordshire Terrier gained
American Kennel Club registration and recognition in 1936, but has been
developed since the early 1800's as a result of crosses between the
bulldogs of that time and game terriers. One of the early and very famous
AKC registered Staffs was Pete the Pup, (real name Lucenay's Peter), dog
star of the original "Our Gang" comedies of the 1930's.
Although the early ancestors of this breed came from England, the
development of the American Staffordshire Terrier is the story of a truly
American breed. This type of dog was instrumental in the success of
farmers and settlers who developed America. Staffordshire Terriers were
used for general farm work, hunting wild pigs, bears, and other large
game, guarding the homestead, and general companionship.
A number of the early ancestors were also developed for the "sport" of dog
fighting. The extraordinary vitality of this breed is a direct result of
breeding for successful fighting dogs. This now illegal activity is more
often cited as the early purpose of he American Staffordshire Terrier,
rather than general farm work.
Although ancestors of the American Staffordshire were fighting dogs, the
selective breeding since the 1930's has been away from the fighting
heritage. The American Staffordshire Terrier of today is a companion and
show dog, rather than a gladiator. Although more rarely used on the farm
now, the talents that made him a good all purpose dog are still to be
found.
The
American Staffordshire Terrier is a happy, outgoing, stable, and confident
dog. Gentle and loving towards people. Good-natured, amusing, extremely
loyal and an affectionate family pet. Staffordshire Terriers are good with
children and adults. Almost always obedient, Staffordshire Terriers want
nothing more than to please master. An extremely courageous and
intelligent guard dog, that is very full of life.
Over the past 50 years, careful breeding
has produced this friendly, trustworthy, dog who is an especially good dog
for children. Courageous and a persistent fighter if provoked. Highly
protective of his owners and the owner's property, it will fight an enemy
to the death if the enemy traps the dog in a corner and threatens its
loved ones. The American Staffordshire Terrier has a very high tolerance
for pain. Some un-socialized The American Staffordshire Terriers may be
aggressive towards other dogs. Socialize very thoroughly when young
to curve any dog aggressive tendencies. The American Staffordshire
Terrier can be difficult to housebreak.
It has given outstanding results as a
guardian of property, but is at the same time esteemed as a companion dog.
When properly trained and socialized, the Staff makes a great family
companion. This breed is not for the passive owner who does not understand
that all dogs have an instinct to have a pack order.
Height:
Dogs 17-19 inches (43-48cm) Females 16-18 inches (41-46cm)
Weight:
57-67 pounds (25-30 kg)
Health
Problems
A generally healthy breed. Some are prone to hip dysplasia, hereditary
cataracts and congenital heart disease.
Living Conditions
The Staffordshire Terrier will do okay in an apartment if it is
sufficiently exercised. It is very active indoors and will do alright
without a yard. This breed prefers warm climates.
Exercise
American Staffordshire Terriers must have plenty of regular exercise, but
keep them leashed in public to avoid fights with other dogs.
Life Expectancy
About 10-12 years.
Grooming
The smooth, short-haired coat of the American Staffordshire Terrier is
easy to groom. Brush on a regular basis with a firm bristle brush, and
bathe or dry shampoo as necessary. A rub with a piece of toweling or
chamois will make the coat gleam. Staffordshire Terriers are average
shedders.
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American Kennel Club - American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier should give the impression of great strength
for his size.
Staffordshire Terrier Club of America
Official web site for American Staffordshire Terrier national breed club. Breed history, AKC standard, calendar of events.
American Kennel Club - Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Standard Terrier Group General Appearance The Staffordshire Bull Terrier
resource.
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The American Staffordshire Terrier - distinguishing the breed from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier of England, the ancestor of the American
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American Staffordshire Terrier The American Staffordshire Terrier is stoic and reliable.
Breeders Dogs Training Pets Health - Pure Bred Puppy.com
Pictures of the American Staffordshire Terriers ... Ed Thomason ... purebredpuppy 09/01/2004 01:33am. UKC American Pit Bull Terrier
National event
Dauntless American Staffordshire Terriers
This American Staffordshire Terrier Webring Site is owned by Denise Wedel and Peter Wilson.
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