Dog Breed

American Staffordshire Terrier

Guard DogConfidence King
Primary image of American Staffordshire Terrier dog breed
Full Name
American Staffordshire Terrier
Alternate Names
Pitbull, American Pitbull
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Life Span
12 - 14 years
Weight
50 - 70 pounds
Description

Tenacious, Friendly, Devoted, Loyal, Attentive, Courageous

Origin
England
Bred For
Fighting
Attachments
    Family Considerations
    Child Friendly

    Is the American Staffordshire Terrier good with children?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier is about average in how friendly they are with children. They can be friendly and loving with children, but we recommend that they get early socialization, and are not left alone with children for extended periods.
    Stranger Friendly

    Is the American Staffordshire Terrier friendly with strangers?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier is not automatically friendly with strangers and we would not recommend for a living situation with frequent guests.
    Dog Friendly

    Is the American Staffordshire Terrier friendly with other dogs?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier is not naturally friendly with other dogs. There are always exceptions, but we would not recommend them for homes with other dogs, or if you intend on going to dog parks.
    Likes to Cuddle

    Does the American Staffordshire Terrier like to cuddle?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier appreciates affection and that includes kisses and snuggles!
    Playfulness

    Does the American Staffordshire Terrier like to play?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier is playful both as a puppy and as an adult dog. As they get older they may appreciate their alone time, and may not be in the mood for constant play, but certainly will have plenty of time for play as well.
    Service Dog Ability

    Does the American Staffordshire Terrier make a good service dog?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier would not be a great fit as a service dog for several reasons.
    Overall Ease of Breed
    Ease for Novice

    Is the American Staffordshire Terrier good for first-time owners?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier would not be the best fit for first-time owners. A breed is only good for first-time owners if it is raised for home companionship, and is open to training and is motivated to please its owner.
    Training Potential

    How well can the American Staffordshire Terrier be trained?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier is about average when it comes to training potential. The American Staffordshire Terrier can be seen in competitions and can have advanced training, but it would require much dedication and oftentimes professional training.
    Amount of Shedding

    Does the American Staffordshire Terrier shed a lot?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier does shed, but less than average.
    Ease of Grooming

    Is the American Staffordshire Terrier easy to groom?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier requires very little grooming relative to other dog breeds, their coat is very low maintenance.
    Exercise Need

    Does the American Staffordshire Terrier need a lot of exercise?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier has a lot of energy and getting daily exercise is very important, both for their well-being and for their focus, which is important when you train them.
    Personality
    Intelligence

    How smart is the American Staffordshire Terrier?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier is very smart. Above-average intelligence means they can pick up on cues and signals quickly when it comes to training. But it also means that they need to be challenged mentally, in addition to their standard exercise needs.
    Amount of Barking

    How much does the American Staffordshire Terrier bark? Does the American Staffordshire Terrier bark too much?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier barks an average amount. It can vary widely between American Staffordshire Terriers - some may be much more expressive than others.
    Guard Dog Ability

    Is the American Staffordshire Terrier a good guard dog?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier is not a dog breed necessarily known as a guard dog, but they are alert. The American Staffordshire Terrier is protective of its family, and has above average tendencies when it comes to guarding property.
    Tolerates Being Alone

    Is the American Staffordshire Terrier good at staying alone? Is the American Staffordshire Terrier independent?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier is very independent, and an excellent choice for someone who will not have the time to always be with their dog. This can be beneficial for a working dog on the farm, or even just a family that works the 9-5 and cannot work from home.
    Home and Environment Considerations
    Good for Apartment Living

    Is the American Staffordshire Terrier a good apartment dog?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier is not a good dog for apartment living for several reasons. It is still possible to make it work if the owner is dedicated to plenty of training and daily exercise, but it may be challenging.
    Size

    How big is the American Staffordshire Terrier?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier is a medium sized dog breed. They can range in size depending on genetics, and males are larger on average than females.
    Tolerates Heat

    How much does the American Staffordshire Terrier tolerate hot weather? When is it too hot for a American Staffordshire Terrier?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier can do very well in hot weather. Owners should still be aware of over-heating as this is one of the most common reasons for dogs going into the emergency room, but overall the American Staffordshire Terrier can do well in hot climates.
    Tolerates Cold

    How much does the American Staffordshire Terrier tolerate cold weather? When is it too cold for a American Staffordshire Terrier?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier can tolerate some cold, but should not be over-exposed to cold weather. In general, they can live in cold weather climates, but may need clothing on particularly cold evenings or in snow.
    Potential to Run Away

    Does the American Staffordshire Terrier try to run away?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier does sometimes run away. This is especially true if they are distracted, or see other cats or dogs. They probably won't go out of their way to "escape", but a fenced yard is still recommended.
    Physical Characteristics
    General Health

    Is the American Staffordshire Terrier a healthy dog? The health of a American Staffordshire Terrier should be measured not just by how many years they live, but also by how many health issues they've had. It is important to know which health conditions your breed is prone to- hip problems, eye problems, bloating, and arthritis are all common dog health problems.

    The American Staffordshire Terrier is healthy, but has an average number of health risks that should be taken into consideration.
    Energy Level

    How energetic is the American Staffordshire Terrier?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier has a good amount of energy and it's important to give the American Staffordshire Terrier daily walks and ideally run time as well. A well-exercised dog is easier to train, and will be happier and have less likelihood for destructive habits.
    Amount of Drooling

    How much does the American Staffordshire Terrier drool?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier drools an average amount- typically only after heavy exercise or if you are eating their favorite human food in front of them.
    Prey Drive

    Does the American Staffordshire Terrier have a large prey drive? Does the American Staffordshire Terrier like to chase birds, cats, and other small animals?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier has a high prey drive and has a natural tendency to chase after any small animal. Every case is unique, but the American Staffordshire Terrier may not be the best dog for living with other cats or small animals.
    Athleticism

    Is the American Staffordshire Terrier atheltic?

    The American Staffordshire Terrier is very athletic and would be well suited for a family that frequently works out or goes on adventures.

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  • Thumbnail image 0 of American Staffordshire Terrier dog breed
  1. Terrier
  2. Bull Terrier
  3. American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a purebred dog that belongs to the Bull Terrier sub group, which falls under the larger Terrier dog breed group.
Terrier group: Anyone who has had a terrier knows that they come with a big personality. Across the Terrier dog group there is much variation, but they are all feisty, proud, and extremely loyal to their family. With this strong personality comes stubbornness, so they are not the easiest dog, especially for a first time dog owner. However, with training and a strong owner, they can be some of the most rewarding dogs- their strong personality is fun, active, and will always bring something new. Terriers were originally bred for hunting, exterminating small vermin, and home protection. Terriers are a healthy and athletic breed. Because of this they require a good amount of exercise.
Bull Terrier sub-group: Bull Terriers are a funny dog breed. Bull Terriers have so much energy to the point that they can be described as intense, but they are friendly and always looking to have a good time. They are built like bowling balls, so sometimes with the combo of playfullness, intensity, and physicality can be too much for small children, despite their good intentions. On the other hand, they do love children and will be willing to play 24/7. Bull Terriers are extremely loyal and brave as well. They can be used as personal protection dogs, or guard dogs, but need to be well trained. Despite their goofiness, and deep bond and love they develop with their owners, they are not an ideal dog for a first time dog owner because of their huge personality. Certain breeds have been bred for fighting, so they have a certain level of aggression in their DNA. So just like any dog, early socialization with other people and dogs is crucial.

American Staffordshire Terriers for adoption

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