Breed of the Week - American Staffordshire Terrier

by Jamie Pyatt

According to the AKC breed standard, the American Staffordshire Terrier, or AmStaff, is “Courageous and strong” and his “athletic build and intelligence make him ideally suited to many dog sports such as obedience, agility, tracking and conformation”.
This solidly built, medium size dog makes a great family pet and has a long history of being a watchful protector of children. Although loyal and courageous, the AmStaff is not a good watchdog due to his love of people.

Training
AmStaff’s thrive with regular exercise and training and you will find that AmStaff’s are happiest when active. This breed is intelligent and responds well to consistent, positive training.

Health
While American Staffordshire Terriers are generally a healthy breed, they can develop Cerebellar Ataxia, a hereditary neurological disease. Congenital heart disease, hip dysplasia and skin allergies can affect some AmStaff’s according to the Canine Health Foundation website, www.akcchf.org. The best way to be sure your dog is healthy is to buy from a reputable breeder whose line has best tested for hereditary diseases.

Grooming
American Staffordshire Terriers are definitely an easy to groom breed. An Ionic Brass Boar Bristle Brush or Tufted Natural Boar Bristle Brush will bring out the natural shine in a healthy dog’s coat.

American Staffordshire Terrier Lover Gifts
If you love AmStaff’s, and you know you do, check out the breed specific gifts and collectibles available on cherrybrook.com or by clicking HERE. Reference books, kitchenware, clothing, calendars, DVD’s and jewelry are just a few of the dog lover gifts featuring American Staffordshire Terriers.