The American Staffordshire terrier is one of several breeds known as pit bulls. These dogs are known for being muscular and strong, courageous and alert, agile and graceful.
Physical characteristics of the breed include:
- A broad skull with pronounced cheek muscles.
- Ears set high, and they may be cropped (upright) or uncropped (floppy).
- A strong underjaw.
- Deep, broad chest.
- Tail that tapers to a point — a docked tail is not a standard for this breed.
- A short, stiff, glossy coat.
Males are slightly larger than females, reaching an average of 18 or 19 inches at the shoulders. Females reach a height of 17 or 18 inches at the shoulder.
Ancestors of the American Staffordshire terrier include the English Bulldog and the Mastiff. In fact, the AmStaff of today looks much like the Bulldog of the late 1800s: with straight front legs, a blocky muzzle, and a long tail. Bulldogs were crossbred with terriers, resulting in a breed nicknamed the “Bull and Terrier Dog” or the “Half and Half”.
A famous AmStaff named Stubby was the most decorated dog of World War One and was given the rank of Sergeant!
The breed was registered with the American Kennel Club in 1936 as the Staffordshire terrier, and renamed in 1972 as the American Staffordshire terrier to separate the breed from the heavier Staffordshire Bull terrier of England.
When it comes to personality, these dogs tend to be smart and protective of their families. However, their size and strength can be intimidating! My brother’s dog Lily Biscuits is an American Staffordshire terrier, and I have to admit I was a little bit scared the first time I heard her big, deep bark. It didn’t take long to learn that she was sweet and loving — not a harmful bone in her body. She loves everyone equally, and is happiest cuddling up with a person on the couch.