The American Staffordshire Terrier (sometimes referred to as one of the breeds that make up “pit bulls”) is a popular, playful, and protective breed. They're also often misunderstood and have been the target of discriminatory legislation. But with the right training and the right people to love, American Staffordshire Terriers can make loyal and affectionate lifelong companions.
Originally from the United States, this medium-sized and moderately-high-energy breed can grow to between 57-67 pounds and lives an average of 12-14 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Terrier group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Companion |
| Origin | USA |
| Breed group | Terrier |
| Average lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Size | Large |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 64 |
| Family | Terrier |
| Date of origin | 1800s |
| Original function | Bullbaiting, dog fighting |
| Today's function | Companion |
| Average size of male | Height: 18-19 Weight: 57-67 |
| Average size of female | Height: 17-18 Weight: 57-67 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Very playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Shy |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Esay to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS AN AMERICAN STAFFORDSHIRE TERRIER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
American Staffordshire Terriers are smart and good-natured dogs who want to be your best buddy. This breed is nobody's lapdog, but they can be playful and adventurous companions.
A somewhat family-friendly breed, American Staffordshire Terriers are often fond of children, but—like all big dogs—should always be supervised while playing. They're not always very friendly with other dogs, other pets, and small animals; but they can be friendly with strangers, especially if you work on this while they're young.
WHAT IS AMERICAN STAFFORDSHIRE TERRIER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
Your American Staffordshire Terrier will be at his happiest and healthiest if he has a reliable exercise routine. Short runs, vigorous walks, and rowdy games should do the trick, and may discourage barking.
This breed is famously courageous, though your American Staffordshire Terrier might be a poor candidate for the dog park. Her playmates might unintentionally provoke her protective instincts.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN AN AMERICAN STAFFORDSHIRE TERRIER?
American Staffordshire Terriers are quick learners and easy to train, but they don't respond well to force. They do respond to treats and consistency. If you put in the work, this dog will be an upstanding (or at least up-sitting) canine citizen. Obedience training helps the American Staffordshire Terrier's reputation and it will also keep their agile minds active.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO AMERICAN STAFFORDSHIRE TERRIERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Grooming doesn't get much easier than with this breed. Their short, glossy fur coats just need weekly brushings, and they're moderate shedders.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO AMERICAN STAFFORDSHIRE TERRIERS HAVE?
Some American Staffordshire Terriers develop heart disease or hip dysplasia. Feeding your baby American Staffordshire Terrier a growth food for large-breed puppies may slow their rate of growth but not diminish their adult stature which may help prevent or reduce the impact of adult-onset hip dysplasia.
Their skin or coats can develop allergies. The breed has also been known to develop a hereditary neurologic condition, Cerebellar Ataxia, between the ages of three and five that can result in progressive muscular or coordination decline.
