The American Staffordshire Terrier, also known as AmStaff, is a robust, muscular, and compact breed. It is remarkably loyal and powerful. This breed stands around 18 inches tall and can weigh up to 70 pounds, although most AmStaffs typically range from 40 to 60 pounds. Female AmStaff usually falls at the lower end of this weight range.
The American Kennel Club recognized this breed in 1936. Even though the breed has been identified late, its origin traces back to the 18th century in England. Back in then, English used this breed in the bullbaiting sport along with other “bully” breeds. Despite this grim history, the modern American Staffordshire Terrier is celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and loyal nature. Known for their athleticism and eagerness to please. AmStaffs come in a variety of colors and have a dense, compact build.
How To Care for an American Staffordshire Terrier
By nature, American Terriers are athletes. So, you have to give them adequate exercise to remain strong and healthy. You have to provide at least 60 minutes of vigorous activity each day. You may split these activities into smaller sessions. AmStaffs particularly enjoy games such as chase and tug-of-war.
Their short, single-layer coat does not shed excessively, but some hair will still be found around their favorite resting spots. Grooming is relatively straightforward brushing every few weeks and bathing every 4-6 weeks should suffice.
AmStaffs are affectionate and loyal nature for their families. They are protective, making early socialization crucial, especially for puppies. Proper socialization helps them remain calm around strangers, other animals, and in new situations. Nevertheless, they become protective if you give your attention to the terrier and interact with him very well.
Health Issues in American Staffordshire Terriers
American Staffordshire Terriers typically enjoy a lifespan of 12 to 16 years. This breed is generally healthy, but sometimes gets exposed to potential health concerns as follows:
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Hip Dysplasia: This hereditary condition is improper development of the hip joint, leading to discomfort or severe pain and lameness in your dog. If you send your dog for an X-ray, you can diagnose him with this condition. Terriers, between 1 and 2 years of age, often become subjected to this condition. The vet treats this condition based on its severity. It can include NSAIDS or surgical options.
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Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is a developmental disorder causing joint disease in large-breed dogs. Puppies of age one may succumb to this condition. Limping is the main symptom of this condition. Your vet may treat your dog with anti-inflammatories, low-impact activities, physical therapy, and potentially surgery.
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Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): PRA is a hereditary condition leading to progressive blindness, usually starting with difficulty seeing at night. Although there is no treatment for PRA, you may maintain a consistent environment to help manage the dog’s vision loss.
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Hypothyroidism: This condition arises from insufficient thyroid hormone production, often seen in dogs between 4 and 10 years old. Symptoms include weight gain, lethargy, and a thinning coat. Hypothyroidism is manageable with medication. When terriers with this condition get treated properly, they can lead normal lives.
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Cerebellar Ataxia: A neurological disorder that appears between 3 and 6 years of age, characterized by gait stiffness, balance loss, head tremors, and rapid eye movements. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this case, and most dogs with this condition are euthanized as symptoms progress.
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Food and Skin Allergies: AmStaffs can suffer from allergies leading to intense itching, scratching, and skin irritation. Allergies may require a hypoallergenic diet and sometimes antibiotics for secondary infections.
What To Feed The American Staffordshire Terriers
Despite their compact size, American Staffordshire Terriers have nutritional needs comparable to larger breeds. You have to give them a well-balanced diet high in meat-based protein, vitamins, and minerals. Following the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines and consulting with a veterinarian can ensure proper nutrition based on the dog’s age, activity level, and health status.
For puppies, divide their meals into three daily feedings until they reach adulthood, around one year old. Afterward, change it to two meals per day. You may avoid exercise immediately after feeding to prevent issues like gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV).
When feeding commercial food, adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines. If you give your dog a home diet, you must necessarily include the calories that your dog requires according to its age. Or else, to get to know about your dog’s diet you may consult your veterinarian.
Nutritional supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can support joint health, while omega-3 fatty acids benefit skin and coat health. Commercial diets already include this supplement. You may check those before adding extra.
How To Train The American Staffordshire Terriers
American Staffordshire Terriers are high-energy dogs requiring at least 60 minutes of daily exercise. They are affectionate with their families but can be reserved with strangers. To get rid of this behavior you have to make your dog socialized. Early socialization helps them interact well with other pets and adjust to new environments. They may have a strong prey drive, so introducing them to other animals early is beneficial before leading to tumults.
AmStaffs are patient with children, but all interactions between dogs and kids should be supervised. They can be prone to anxiety, including separation anxiety. Your dog can manage anxiety by getting consistent training, a steady routine, and ample exercise and mental stimulation. Training an AmStaff can be rewarding due to their eagerness to please, though it requires effort to maintain their attention. Engaging in activities like agility training or playing fetch can keep them interested and happy.
Fun Activities, Grooming & Eye and Ear Care
American Staffordshire Terriers thrive on interactive exercise with their owners. They enjoy agility courses, jolly balls, tug of war, flirt poles, and chasing balls or Frisbees. As it is one of the most energetic and hyperactive breeds, they are more into fun and entertaining activities.
AmStaffs have a low-maintenance coat that sheds moderately. You may brush it regularly every few weeks to keep their coat clean. Their sensitive skin benefits from a simple grooming routine, with baths every 4-6 weeks using a gentle, pet-friendly shampoo. Additionally, supplementing their diet with omega-3 fatty acids can support skin and coat health.
In terms of ear and eye care, watch for distichiasis, an abnormal growth of hair on the eyelid that can irritate the eye. Its symptoms are squinting and increased tearing in your dog’s eye. You may consult a vet for treatment, which may involve lubricants or surgery to cure the condition. Ear care also should be part of regular grooming. Clean ears during baths and watch for signs of infection like redness or discharge. If you notice symptoms such as head shaking or pain, consult your veterinarian.
What Pet Parents Have to Consider
American Staffordshire Terriers often face a negative reputation due to historical stigma. So, the owners should be prepared to counteract these misconceptions by focusing on socialization, training, and showcasing their dog’s true, positive nature. A dedicated AmStaff parent can help change perceptions by presenting their dog as a friendly and loving companion as other dog breeds.
AmStaffs thrive in active households where they receive regular exercise and attention. They can coexist with small animals and children if you have given them proper socialization and care. Unless you have not socialized your dog, impending threats such as harm to children, or strangers may occur. Once you decide to adopt an American Staffordshire Terrier, set a plan to make your dog socialized and a friendly companion like all the other dogs in different dog breeds!
