Looks can be deceiving when it comes to the American Staffordshire Terrier. They may appear angry, but these pups are actually gentle, sweet, loving and playful. Staffys will fit in with families who enjoy spending time outdoors. Couch potatoes need not apply.
Size:
57-67 lbs.
Exercise Requirements:
American Staffordshire Terriers require long runs or walks every day. Fetch in the park will go a long way to making these dogs happy campers. Expect to spend at least two hours a day getting fresh air outside. This breed can be hard to handle if not exercised properly.
Mess Factor:
The American Staffordshire Terrier has short hair, so shedding (and clean up) will be minimal. They’re not known to be droolers.
Barking and Volume:
This breed will bark to communicate with their humans, but frequent woofing is not an issue.
Training Requirements:
Though they are intelligent and eager to please, American Staffordshire Terriers can be somewhat difficult to train. They respond best to parents who are firm and consistent but who also shower them with love and affection. If not properly trained, Staffys can become anxious and, in some cases, aggressive. A puppy class is highly recommended. Further obedience training may be necessary.
Ongoing Costs:
Health Factors: American Staffordshire Terriers are known to live long, relatively healthy lives. Issues that can affect the breed include congenital heart disease, hip dysplasia, luxating patellas and cataracts. *A reputable breeder can help minimize the risk of genetic disorders.
Grooming: Home grooming is adequate.
Training: Private training or puppy school classes are recommended.
Grooming Requirements:
This breed will benefit from a weekly brushing, but needs little in the way of bathing. Grooming is a cinch with a Staffy, giving you plenty of time for training, exercising and playing.
Kid Compatibility:
When socialized early, American Staffordshire Terriers can be a child’s best friend (especially if that child takes part in daily walks or loves to play fetch).
Longevity:
10-15 years.
Friendliness: Towards Animals
Because American Staffordshires are members of the terrier family, they can be aggressive and feisty with smaller dogs. In general, however, they’re not a threat to other animals and even enjoy playdates.
Friendliness: Towards People
When properly trained, American Staffordshires are exceptionally affectionate to all people. They will only react aggressively when cornered or if they feel their parent is being threatened in some way.
BE PREPARED FOR: A dog who wants to get up (and make you get up) and go all the time, but a gentle pooch to snuggle with in (rare) down time.
