An American Staffordshire Terrier takes a dip in the pond.

American Staffordshire Terrier

Height

17 - 19"

Weight

40 - 70 lbs

Type

Terrier

Life Expectancy

14 - 16 years

Area of Origin

United States

The American Staffordshire Terrier, or AmStaff, is a loyal and clever dog. The breed got its start in the arena, but years of careful breeding has toned down the desire to fight, resulting in a devoted family-friendly pet. Care must still be taken to socialize and train the AmStaff to minimize wariness and aggression.

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

Where Do American Staffordshire Terriers Come From?

The American Staffordshire Terrier’s origin is an unfortunate one. In the late 1800’s, Americans imported English dogs to compete in the sport of dog fighting. The AmStaff is a cross between the bulldog and terrier, which created a powerful, agile, and courageous brawler.

After dog fighting became illegal in the early 20th century, breeders reduced the aggressive tendencies so prized by their earlier owners, leaving the loyal and protective AmStaff we know and love today. The Staffordshire Terrier was accepted by the AKC in 1936, but the name was changed to the American Staffordshire Terrier in 1972 to differentiate from the English Staffordshire Bull Terrier, which is smaller and lighter than its American counterpart.

Caring for an American Staffordshire Terrier

What Kind of Diet Does an American Staffordshire Terrier Need?

American Staffordshire Terriers require a nutritious diet. They tend towards obesity, so monitoring calorie intake is a must.

How Much Grooming Does an American Staffordshire Terrier Need?

Grooming requirements are limited. Brushing weekly to remove loose fur and to distribute skin oils will keep the coat healthy and shiny. Bathing every few weeks should be sufficient.

Are American Staffordshire Terriers Healthy Dogs?

AmStaffs are generally healthy, with an average lifespan of 14 – 16 years. They should be evaluated for hip dysplasia, heart disease, and skin allergies.

Staffordshire Terriers are predisposed to: gastric dilatation volvulus, hip dysplasia, parvovirus, cataracts, and arthritis. Less common illnesses for the breed include lick granuloma, cutaneous histiocytoma, entropion, patent ductus arteriosis (PDA), mast cell tumor, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA).

Do American Staffordshire Terriers Need to Be Trained?

Training and socializing AmStaffs is necessary, but quite easy, thanks to their strong desire to please. They may not be the right breed if you are a novice dog owner, as they can be aggressive even with adequate training.

How Much Exercise Does an American Staffordshire Terrier Need?

AmStaffs must be exercised daily or they may be prone to chewing or digging. They are highly energetic and athletic, excelling at agility, obedience, dock diving, and even search and rescue. They also love to spend time with their families, especially during activities like a long walk or jog. Having your AmStaff on a leash in public is imperative, since they have a strong prey drive and can be wary of strangers.

Style

Centered

Are You Ready to Adopt an American Staffordshire Terrier?

To adopt an AmStaff, start by making sure a dog of this size and demeanor will fit your lifestyle and the guidelines of your city and neighborhood. Use our pet adoption checklist to walk through each step in the adoption process. Complete the necessary adoption applications and be prepared for interviews or home visits. Spend time with potential dogs to find a good match. Finally, prepare your home for the new pet, ensuring it's safe and welcoming.

Pet Insurance Options for American Staffordshire Terriers

Pet insurance for an AmStaff may help cover costs for conditions like hip dysplasia, arthritis, and bloat. Consider a policy that includes hereditary and congenital conditions, flexible coverage options, and reasonable premiums.

Use our insurance aggregator tool to compare providers and find the best plan for your dog's unique needs.

What Are the Physical Characteristics of an American Staffordshire Terrier?

What Does an American Staffordshire Terrier Look Like?

American Staffordshire Terriers have a strong, stocky build that is also agile and graceful. Their average height is 18 – 19″ at the shoulder for males and 17 – 18″ for females. They generally weigh 40 – 70 pounds.

Should I Crop My American Staffordshire Terrier's Ears?

Cropping is not a necessity. It was historically done to protect against injury in dog fighting. Many regions, especially in Europe, are banning the practice of ear cropping, since it is unnecessary for companion animals and not required by the AKC. Naturally, ears are short and folded. The head is broad, with a pronounced forehead and well-developed musculature.

Are American Staffordshire Terriers Strong?

The body of the AmStaff is strong and compactly muscled. The shoulders are wide and the chest is broad. The back is short and slopes slightly from the shoulders to the rump when viewed from the side.

Do American Staffordshire Terriers Have Tails?

Yes. The AmStaff tail is straight and short in proportion to the rest of the body.

American Staffordshire Terrier Front Legs

The forelimbs are straight and wide set to accommodate a broad chest.

What Does the American Staffordshire Terrier Coat Look Like?

The AmStaff’s coat may have varied color and markings. Their fur is short, with no undercoat.

American Staffordshire Terrier Back Legs

The hind legs are well muscled and slightly shorter than the front legs. Feet are compact.

Style

Centered