| AKC Group: | Terrier |
| A.K.A.: | None |
| Functions: | Companion, Guard dog |
| Year of Origin: | 1800s |
| Country of Origin: | England |
| Life Span (yr): | 9 - 15 |
| Colors: | Black, Blue, Brown, Fawn, Liver, Red, Seal, White |
| Height (Inch): | 16 - 19 |
| Weight (lb): | 55 - 70 |
| Size: | Medium |
| Hair Length: | Short |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: |  |
| Ease of Training: | |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: |  |
| Grooming: |  |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
The American Staffordshire Terrier has a powerful appearance that can even be threatening to those not used to the breed. He has well defined cheeks and ears that are located high on his head. They can be cropped or left natural. If left natural, they are short and held with a slight prick. His eyes are dark and brooding. They are set low in his skull and are also widely spaced. His neck is strong – just like the rest of his body – and has a nice arch to it. The muzzle of the American Staffordshire Terrier is moderate in length and includes a strong jaw with a powerful bite. His coat is sleek and smooth.
Temperament:
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a pleasant, extraverted dog. He loves to be with his family, and has been bred to be gentle and affectionate. He is faithful to those who care from him and gets along well with children. He has a strong desire to please and tries to obey his master. He is bright and brave; but should not be fearless. However, he will do what it takes to protect the people he loves and will fight if provoked. He will also protect his home, and is skeptical of strangers unless he is well socialized. Although relatively trustworthy, the American Staffordshire Terrier can also be aggressive.
Health:
The American Staffordshire Terrier does not have any unique health concerns. In fact, most of the disorders he faces are also faced by many other breeds of dogs. Hip dysplasia is relatively common – it can cause lameness or problems with his mobility in the most severe cases. He may also be prone to cataracts – which may impede his vision – although not necessarily cause blindness. Heart disease is also seen in the American Staffordshire Terrier; however, with the proper veterinarian care, it can be monitored and controlled. He should visit his veterinarian at least once a year and should receive his vaccinations as needed.
Maintenance:
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a moderately easy dog to maintain. Although his coat is simple to groom, he requires exercise every day – which can be time consuming. As far as his coat, just bathe him when he needs it and brush him to remove dead fur. If he only needs to be freshened up, wiping him down with a wet towel will do the trick and make his coat shine again. He must have plenty of exercise every day or he will become unruly. Once he becomes destructive, it can be a hard habit to break. So, by giving him the exercise he needs, it will prevent bad habits from starting.