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American Staffordshire Terrier

Overview

AKC Height:

17-19 inches

AKC Weight:

40-70 pounds

Colors:

Any color, solid, parti, or patched is permissible, but all white; more than eighty per cent white, black and tan, and liver not to be encouraged.

Life Expectancy:

12-16 years

Group:

Terrier Group

Description

American Staffordshire Terriers require weekly brushing and monthly bathing. They shed moderately. A securely fenced yard with room to exercise is needed. Early socialization is a must with this breed. Owners must be willing to take the time to work with and train their dogs.

Temperament

American Staffordshire Terriers are confident and loyal to their owners. They need early training to avoid aggressiveness, as the breed naturally possesses a dominant nature. Due to this, they are good guard dogs and are very protective. Dogs that are not raised around children might not be tolerant of them. Care should be taken with other dogs and pets.

American Staffordshire Terrier Housebreaking

Housebreaking the American Staffordshire Terrier requires consistency on your part. Dogs are creatures of habit, and knowing the tips and tricks of training will make the process so much easier and less stressful.

Puppy Housebreaking     Adult Marking & Retraining

Find a Puppy: American Staffordshire Terrier

If you are looking for a puppy or adult dog, please read our important information on choosing a puppy from a breeder and adopting a dog from a rescue. There are good dog breeders and good dog rescues and there are bad dog breeders and bad dog rescues. Our information will help you to make an informed decision and will give you tips on what to look for and what to avoid.

Pet shops are not the best place to look for a puppy. Dogs from pet shops often come from puppy mills, and puppy mill dogs are often kept in unhealthy conditions. The best way to end puppy mills is to rescue or buy from reputable sources.

Nutrition

The American Staffordshire Terrier should only be fed high-quality dog food targeted toward the dog’s age, whether puppy, adult, or senior. Avoid cooked bones and food with high fat content. Talk to your veterinarian if you have concerns about your dog’s weight.

Training

The American Staffordshire Terrier is extremely eager to please their owners. At the very least, these dogs can benefit from learning basic commands, like sit, come, and stay. Because this breed is highly intelligent and easily bored, it is important to give them multiple challenging toys to keep this breed occupied.

Health

(Click here for Health Dictionary)
Watch for hip dysplasia.