Amstaff, Staff (American Staffordshire Terrier): description, maintenance and care, 80+ photos, reviews

The powerful and devoted American Staffordshire Terrier, also known as an Amstaff or Staff, is renowned for its robust physique and lively disposition. They were developed as farm dogs after being bred initially for bull-baiting, but they have since become devoted friends. They make excellent family pets because of their intelligence and amiable disposition, but they also require the right socialization and training to succeed.

It’s critical to comprehend the needs of an Amstaff when providing for them. These dogs love activities that test their physical and mental limits and thrive on exercise. You can maintain their happiness and health with regular walks, playtime, and even agility training. Although their short coat doesn’t require much maintenance, frequent brushing and baths can help keep their skin healthy.

This article includes over 80 engrossing photos that highlight the breed’s charm and character, along with a thorough description of the breed and maintenance and care advice. We’ll also feature owner testimonials from Amstaffs to help you understand the benefits and drawbacks of owning such a remarkable breed. There is much to discover about these amazing dogs, whether you plan to add one to your family or you just want to learn more!

Brief characteristics of the American Staffordshire Terrier in the table

Criterion		Information
Height	males	46-48 cm
	females	43-46 cm
Weight	males	25-30 kg
	females	22-27 kg
Country origin		USA
Shedding		Low
Aggressiveness		High
Health		Average
Intelligence		Average
Trainability		Easily trainable
Obedience to strangers		Not very strong
Activity	at home	Average
	on a walk/outdoors	High
Dominance	in the family	Weak
	over dogs	High
Behavior in the family	playfulness	High
	barking	Rarely, almost absent
	demand for affection	High
Noise		Low
Attitude to children		They are good with children of different ages
Relationships with other animals		They get along well with pets. They can get into a fight with strangers on the street.
Attitude to loneliness		They have a hard time being alone
Cost of maintenance		Average
Need for care		Minimal

Advantages of the American Staffordshire Terrier

Among the top ten most favored dog breeds worldwide is the American Staffordshire Terrier.

Apart from their great guarding abilities and widespread popularity as pets, these dogs also offer the following benefits:

1. The small size allows the animal to live comfortably in an apartment;
2. They are very patient and stable, it is extremely difficult to anger them;
3. They are easy to train, quick-witted and obey their owner well;
4. They have high endurance, are hard-working. They are suitable for participation in agility or canicross.
5. Dogs of this breed are very clean and unpretentious, do not need special care.
6. They make a minimum of noise and practically do not make a sound;
7. They are very devoted to their owners and family;
8. They get along well with small children.

Disadvantages of the American Staffordshire Terrier

Due to their challenging personalities, Staffordshire Terriers can be very challenging for weak-willed individuals who are inexperienced with training and rearing dogs to raise a respectable and peaceful companion.

The Amstaff additionally has the following drawbacks:

1. They have too high a level of stubbornness and independence, dogs are constantly trying to take a leadership position;
2. Active physical activity is necessary;
3. They are prone to aggression and are suspicious of strangers;
4. Walks within the city should be carried out with a muzzle;
5. High risk of joint diseases and weight gain;
6. If they get into a fight, they will not calm down until the fight comes to an end. It will be impossible to separate the dogs. Because of this, by the way, the breed is considered dangerous.

History of the American Staffordshire Terrier

Over the course of the breed’s existence, the American Staffordshire Terrier has gone by roughly ten different names. Furthermore, the wide range of them indicates various theories regarding their origin.

These animals have a long history that spans multiple eras, beginning in the Middle Ages.

The first period – before 1800

Traditionally, gladiator bouts—which sometimes included animal participation—were the main source of medieval entertainment. One of them involved dogs using different animals as bait.

In England, livestock farming was growing rapidly, which is why dogs were typically raised on bulls.

The royal family and other nobles preferred to bait more elusive creatures, such as monkeys, tigers, bears, and lions. Bulldogs and mastiffs were employed as fighting animals. However, the animals’ relatively large parameters hindered their agility and speed, making them too visible for opponents to attack. To improve their mobility and decrease their size, owners had to carefully choose each individual and also crossbreed with other breeds.

By the end of the 1700s, a fighting dog (bulldog) had developed, possessing a large head, a powerful front, and a light back. In an effort to enhance the breed, these bulldogs started mating with terriers at the start of the 1800s. The dog started to change more and more over time. But social shifts also had an impact on this; eventually, a ban on animal baiting was implemented in various parts of England, and eventually the entire nation. Breeders were not the only ones who did this.

The second period – from 1800 to 1860

Dog fights became a popular form of entertainment in society after bullfights were outlawed. Animals required new personality traits for this, so even more aggressive terrier crossing started. By then, the bulldog and terrier breeds, which are the forebears of the modern Amstaff, had reached the pinnacle of their evolution. Furthermore, breeders had already produced a fighter that was nearly perfect in terms of both physical and character attributes.

During this time, English mine workers were the ones who enjoyed dog fights the most. Only canines that had undergone specific training were permitted to compete, and winnings were wager with real money. The breed was known as a pit dog or pit bull terrier back then.

The third period – from 1860 to 1936

Following the Civil War’s conclusion, the British commenced a systematic exodus to the regions of the New World. They brought dogs along as well. They served as farm assistants in addition to fighting dogs, protecting livestock and homes from rodents and raptors. Farm owners started to exercise greater caution when selecting a dog, favoring larger canines that could handle the task at hand. With the gradual introduction of dog fight prohibitions across the nation, Amstaffs evolved into domestic canines used for protection.

The fourth period – after 1946

The "Staffordshire Terrier" was formally registered as a breed by the American Kennel Club in 1936. The American Staffordshire Terrier Club was established in the same year, and Wilfred Brandon served as its first president and wrote the breed’s primary standards.

However, some owners chose to register their dogs under the previous name, "American Pit Bull Terrier," rather than this one because of their exceptional fighting abilities. This is the reason why two identical dogs of the same breed with different official names have happened in the United States.

There is still no agreement on which terrier is the direct ancestor of the Amstaff because of the significant historical division. Divergent views exist regarding the ancestry of the White English Terrier, Black and Tan Terrier, and Fox Terrier. According to certain scientific research, the Staffordshire Terrier is actually a hybrid of all three of these breeds.

Description of the appearance of the American Staffordshire Terrier in the table

Photo gallery of dogs of the American Staffordshire Terrier breed

Color and features of the coat of the American Staffordshire Terrier

Amstaffs have short, stiff hairs that make up a fairly dense coat.

Dogs come in a variety of colors; their coats can be speckled or entirely one color. An excessive amount of white, liver, black, and tan color options are present.

Dog owners adore tricolors, and breeders favor breeding dogs with white and sable or black and white colors.

Disqualifying defects

The standards for the standard regarding the breed’s existence have become very comprehensible.

The following conditions prohibit animals from taking part in exhibition activities:

1. Too slow and sluggish dogs;
2. Individuals with deviations from the size standard;
3. Dogs with soft and wavy hair;
4. Animals with light-colored eyes;
5. Dogs with a pink nose, lips or eyelids;
6. Amstaffs with a docked tail;
7. Individuals with sagging skin on the neck;
8. Staffords with an incorrect bite, especially on the lower jaw;
9. Dogs with drooping ears;
10. Animals with incorrect coloring (liver or black and tan).

Temperature of the American Staffordshire Terrier

Many people think that a fighting dog cannot be a calm, devoted pet. That being said, this is untrue. Thankfully, dog fights are forbidden and do not occur anymore. However, fighting breeds—particularly the Amstaff—remain highly popular because of their unique attributes, which include superior hunting skills, the capacity to defend, and companionship.

Animals are born without the ability to be angry or aggressive. Everything is solely based on training techniques and upbringing. In addition, the Staffordshire Terrier is regarded as being very courageous and devoted, has outstanding searching abilities, and has the potential to excel as a service dog. The animal’s composure and focus will also be beneficial in this. They understand how to work nonstop and focus as much as they can on the task at hand.

The Amstaff enjoys playing and running around when they are at home. They also adore being touched and showered. Regardless of age, gets along well with every member of the family.

All the benefits mentioned above notwithstanding, an Amstaff puppy requires excellent socialization and a healthy upbringing just like any other dog.

Attitude to children

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a well-mannered dog that plays nicely with kids of all ages and exhibits balanced behavior.

However, the animal’s tolerance has a limit, and going over it can have dire consequences. Consequently, it’s important to teach kids the proper way to behave around dogs and to avoid making loud noises or wave your hands in front of the animal’s eyes in an attempt to annoy, frighten, or offend it.

Attitude to strangers

Although the Staffordshire Terrier is not aggressive toward strangers, they do not feel at ease right away. It will not attack without a clear threat, but it will not allow a stranger into its territory. When the owner brings a guest, it will accept them calmly but make an effort to pay attention and be watchful.

Attitude to other animals

The Staffordshire Terrier might not get along with other dogs even after they have received great socialization. He will readily start a fight with anyone who is too bothersome and will not let up until the very end. With other pets, though, the Amstaff will be calm and tolerant.

Who is the breed suitable for

Owners that have an active and sports-oriented lifestyle will find the American Staffordshire Terrier ideal. Dogs value physical exercise greatly, so they will be content to keep the owner company while he is training.

They require games and lengthy, vigorous walks. Before acquiring a dog, one should be aware of this and ready to assist the animal in letting go of its pent-up energy.

Dogs require consistent training, so owners who work long hours and are frequently away from home should not own them.

Additionally, if there are kids living with you, you should start by having instructive talks with them before bringing the dog when they’re ready. If not, there’s a chance the child and the animal won’t get along.

Though many people disregard this advice, getting a Staffordshire Terrier as a first dog is not advised. Given all the potential challenges in education, the potential owner needs to evaluate his strengths in detail and be aware of all the ramifications. Amstaff requires an owner who is strong and will not back down. However, if someone still finds themselves in this circumstance, they ought to speak with an expert and enroll in classes.

Education and training of the American Staffordshire Terrier

Education of any breed of dog requires a lot of time and effort, and the American Staffordshire Terrier has a difficult and docile character. Socialization and training should begin in the first days of the puppy"s life in the house. Already after the first vaccinations, you can take the dog outside, introduce it to the environment (city noise, earth and t.d.), give the opportunity to communicate with other animals and teach them to react to strangers. It is worth doing all this so that he is sufficiently tolerant and not aggressive. If the owner notices negative behavior towards others (no matter – people or animals), then it is worth seeking help from professionals.

First and foremost, the dog needs to be taught specific signs that signal the end of inappropriate behavior. However, you should never physically punish an animal, treat it cruelly, or yell at it. As a result, the animal will only grow more hostile and probably lose all faith in humans.

You have to pay close attention to your health in order for the educational process to proceed as smoothly as possible. Amstaffs sense their owner’s emotions extremely well and are highly sensitive to them. Thus, it is crucial to maintain composure (particularly in high-stress scenarios) and consistently teach your dog obedience and respect for its owner.

The duration of the first lessons should be gradually increased with age, starting at 10 to 15 minutes. The procedure should be constructed in a lighthearted manner, with internal mental and physical workouts alternated. The owner’s affection and a small treat will serve as the puppy’s greatest source of motivation.

The following instructions are required in order to learn:

1. Sit. To help the puppy master this skill. you need to show him a treat, holding it right in front of his nose, and then raise your hand with food higher and higher until the animal sits. After, of course, praise.
2. Lie down. Here everything is exactly the opposite – the treat must be lowered lower and lower until the puppy lies down.
3. Next to. This command should be practiced at the end of a walk outside, when the animal already wants to go home and is forced to follow in step with the owner.
4. Come to me. This skill should be practiced when the dog is running nearby. It is enough to lure it to you with some kind of treat and praise.
5. Place. After a game or when the animal is going to sleep, take it to the designated place, putting treats and favorite toys nearby.

Orders should be given in a clear, concise, and strict manner; however, avoid raising your voice in a hostile or irritated manner. A dog’s best friend is a person, not the other way around, so she shouldn’t be afraid of him.

Regular training is crucial for the animal’s success. When the dog is young, you can train him at home. As the dog gets older, you can take him outside to a peaceful area so he can focus. You can use auxiliary materials, such as a collar, toys, and leash, during training. This will only make the dog feel more at ease and help it learn how to understand people more quickly.

Setting up personal boundaries as soon as you move in together is also crucial. This is something you must strictly follow—no exceptions allowed. And everyone in the family needs to follow these guidelines; otherwise, the dog might take them for granted and constantly look for ways to get around human behavior, which will lead to more mischievous behavior.

Apart from following basic commands, a small puppy might already have developed a set of negative habits like sleeping in the owner’s bed, loud, continuous barking, begging for food, picking up objects from the floor, etc. Dogs must be immediately weaned from these habits and kept from engaging in any similar activities.

Apart from the issues mentioned, there’s an additional issue: an addiction to biting. Amstaffs are born with this trait, so it needs to be addressed from the beginning of life. You must purchase the animal’s unique teething rings in order to do this. This will help the dog become distracted and break a negative habit.

The conditions in which they are kept don’t really matter to American Staffordshire Terriers. They are at ease in both private homes and apartments in cities. However, since Amstaffs have too short of a coat to withstand the cold, you should not keep them outside.

You must prepare the animal’s space, including its bed or house, before it arrives. Purchase the items it needs, including a bowl, leash, collar, and muzzle. Additionally, you can buy toys right away and place them in his place.

Walking and activity

Physical activity is one of the most vital aspects of a Staffordshire Terrier’s life. Dogs require active games in addition to frequent, lengthy walks—at least twice a day—to burn off excess energy and safeguard household belongings.

Animals that are in good physical health and have developed muscles can compete in sports like weightlifting or stringpole:

• Stringpole is hanging on a rope. Only dogs with an already formed bite and at least 10-11 months of age can participate in this sport.
• In weightpulling, a dog must move a heavy object a certain distance. The winner will be the animal that crosses the finish line. Dogs aged 1 to 12 years can participate in this sport.

Caring for an American Staffordshire Terrier

There is no special care required for the American Staffordshire Terrier. The animal only needs to be brushed with a silicone glove a few times a week because of its comparatively short coat. Washing it should only be done once a month at most.

You must closely monitor your oral hygiene and use a special toothbrush to brush your teeth. Additionally, you can use dental toys or treats to help remove extra plaque from the jaw and act as a preventative measure against tartar and caries.

With specialized nippers or scissors, claws are cut. This ought to be carried out indiscriminately, as they develop. For instance, city dogs’ wear on the asphalt will dull their claws, requiring less frequent cutting.

Cleaning the ears once or twice a week is advised. However, you ought to get in touch with a clinic if you’re experiencing issues with your ears’ health. Medical professionals will tend to the animal and use specialized medications to clean its ears.

As necessary, dab the eyes. Even though it’s perfectly normal for tiny clots to form in the corners of your eyes, you shouldn’t proceed with this. You must use specific eye drops for the procedure that are devoid of antibiotics.

Vaccinations for the American Staffordshire Terrier

You must vaccinate your pet as soon as possible to protect them against a number of diseases. When moving, a puppy acquired from a nursery ought to have already received the initial set of vaccinations. The schedule states that the remaining portion will be administered at a veterinary clinic.

If there isn’t a specified vaccination schedule, you need to get in touch with a veterinarian to have one created specifically for your pet, taking into account its unique health needs.

Every year, beginning at the age of one year, adult dogs receive additional vaccinations.

List of immunizations required for Amstaff:

1. Canine plague.
2. Parvovirus enteritis.
3. Viral hepatitis.
4. Canine fever.
5. Rabies.

We’ll cover everything you need to know about the American Staffordshire Terrier, or Amstaff, in this post, from their remarkable appearance and unique personality traits to important upkeep and care guidelines. With more than 80 engrossing images and sincere owner testimonials, you’ll learn exactly what makes this breed special and how to give your pet the best possible life. This guide can assist you whether you’re thinking about bringing an Amstaff into your home or you just want to learn more!

Features of the American Staffordshire Terrier diet

There are two ways to approach creating an animal’s feeding schedule:

Natural products

In this instance, the diet should contain the following foods:

• Natural proteins contained in meat products, offal and fish.
• Fermented milk products – cottage cheese, kefir and yogurt.
• Porridge from cereals (except cereals).
• Vegetables, greens.

For a more balanced diet, microelements and vitamin supplements should be added to the diet in addition to these products.

Feeding with purchased food

In this instance, the best food class with an outstanding composition (super-premium, holistic) should take precedence. It is not necessary to take additional vitamin supplements.

General recommendations

Whichever route is selected, there must be adherence to a rigorous feeding schedule. You should set aside specific times of the day for eating, and your dog should always have access to clean drinking water in its bowl.

Both sugar and spinal bones can be given to infants who are just beginning to teethe. Giving adult dogs bones on a regular basis is not advised as this may cause health problems.

Feeding the dog any of the following items is prohibited: flour; sweets and chocolate; sausage products; food that is overly salty, smoked, spicy, or fatty; and spoilt food.

Health of the American Staffordshire Terrier and life expectancy

The American Staffordshire Terrier is prone to certain diseases in addition to having a robust immune system.

For instance, like:

1. Allergic reactions;
2. Eye diseases;
3. Benign tumors;
4. Stomach problems;
5. Hip dysplasia.

Apart from the illnesses mentioned, dogs are also afflicted with parasites. In the event that a pet exhibits altered behavior, such as lethargy, apathy, or refusal to eat or drink, you should get in touch with a veterinarian right away.

Amstaffs are prone to colds. This is further made easier by dogs’ short hair, which essentially keeps them cold. Your pet needs a warm bed that is preferably elevated if you want to avoid colds at home. When strolling, it’s important to evaluate the animal’s health and the temperature regime objectively.

It’s imperative to vaccinate the animal on time and attend routine examinations every year to stop the development of serious diseases. Additionally, use safe, high-quality products to treat the Amstaff for parasites once every quarter.

The terrier’s immunity will be strengthened by regular cleaning of the area where it resides, systematic walks in the fresh air, and physical exercise.

Mating of American Staffordshire Terriers

In order to prevent injury to the animals, the mating process needs to be handled with extreme caution and responsibility. At the latest, when the female is 16 months old (1 year and 4 months), and the male is 18 months old (1 year and 6 months), the first mating should occur. It is essential to introduce the dogs to one another prior to mating, ideally before the onset of estrus.

Additionally, the dogs must be ready for the procedure beforehand. For a female dog, this means treating parasites approximately two weeks prior to the process, performing all necessary hygiene tasks, and paying extra attention to her health during estrus. For a boy, maintaining personal hygiene is sufficient.

In order to keep more faith in the male, it is preferable to mate on his territory. However, the female’s tension may prevent the first mating from occurring, and it is acceptable to re-establish contact after a few days.

You must keep a close eye on the expectant mother’s health during the roughly two months of her pregnancy. Ten to fourteen puppies can come from a single litter.

How to choose an American Staffordshire Terrier puppy

Prior to making the decision to purchase an American Staffordshire Terrier puppy, you must determine the exact purpose of the purchase.

Competitors can use individuals who satisfy the breed standards in terms of external parameters. They ought to be composed and non-aggressive.

Any Amstaff that is in good health and has a balanced mentality and calm demeanor is a good pet.

Puppies that adhere to breed standards are more desirable to breeders. However, the only individuals fit for further breeding are those in the show and breed classes.

Examine the dog’s appearance before purchasing one, paying particular attention to the size of the head, the condition of the coat, the cleanliness of the ears, the softness of the belly, and the proper paw formation.

A dog from a private breeder or from a kennel can be purchased. When purchasing, you should consider the cleanliness and comfort of the animal kennel in addition to the puppy’s appearance.

Photo gallery of Amstaff puppies

Cost of the American Staffordshire Terrier

The seller typically bases the price they charge on the expenses they have incurred and the standing of the established class. A pet class of American Staffordshire Terriers that exhibit significant deviations from the breed standard will typically cost no less than $130.

Animals in the breed class will cost between $200 and $280. Additionally, the cost for future athletes, show class representatives, and exhibition participants will begin at $280.

Interesting facts about the American Staffordshire Terrier

Even though the American Staffordshire Terrier breed was created more than 200 years ago, its appeal hasn’t diminished. The following are some fascinating details about these dogs:

1. Emergency Ministry employees use Amstaffs as service dogs. They are especially often used when people go missing.
2. Staffordshire Terriers love to spend time with their owner and can even just lie next to them while watching TV.
3. In Ukraine, there is a brand called "Staff" in honor of this breed of dog.
4. Small terriers love to chew on things. To prevent damage to household property, it is worth buying the animal more toys.
5. Staffordshire terriers are excellent rat catchers. They acquired this trait from their ancestors – English terriers.

Topic	Description
Breed	American Staffordshire Terrier (Amstaff)
Description	Strong, loyal, and affectionate dogs known for their intelligence and protective nature.
Maintenance	Regular exercise, balanced diet, and socialization are key for a happy Amstaff.
Care	Routine vet visits, grooming, and training to ensure a well-behaved pet.
Photos	80+ stunning photos showcasing their personality and charm.
Reviews	Positive feedback from owners highlighting their companionship and loyalty.

To sum up, the Amstaff, also known as the American Staffordshire Terrier, is a breed that genuinely exemplifies strength and loyalty. When their needs are met, these dogs’ lively personalities and muscular builds make them excellent companions. The Amstaff can flourish in the right home, regardless of whether you’re an experienced dog owner or thinking about getting one for the first time.

There is more to caring for an Amstaff than just basic training. To keep them content and healthy, regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential. Your dog needs company, so it’s crucial to spend quality time with them. Although grooming is not too difficult, remember to monitor their weight and diet to make sure they stay in good shape.

Amstaffs are not only gorgeous, as you can see from the breathtaking pictures and reviews, but they are also very loving and protective. They make wonderful family dogs when properly socialized and trained to get along with kids and other animals. But it’s important to treat their care with consideration and an awareness of their breed’s inclinations.

Ultimately, you’re going to have a great experience if you’re prepared to accept the perks and obligations of owning an Amstaff. Their devoted devotion and loving disposition can make you very happy. You’ll be well on your way to forging a strong bond with your new furry friend if you just keep in mind to conduct your homework and prepare appropriately.

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