American Staffordshire Terrier Pups Facts and Health Information
With its powerful, muscular build and energy, the American Staffordshire Terrier pups characteristics has long been associated with its fantastic fighting abilities. There is much more to this breed, however, than just its aggressive fighting techniques and appearance. This breed lives off praise and affection and is a very loyal member of the family. American Staffordshire Terrier History
The American Staffordshire Terrier breed was created when the Bulldog and several terrier lines were cross. The name comes from the English region of Staffordshire, where the breed originates. In 1870, the first Staffordshire Terriers were brought to the United States. The American breeders liked the strong, agile, fighting dog. They worked to increase the weight and head size of the breed. When dog fighting became illegal in America, two different versions of the dogs emerged. The first version was a show dog that is the American Staffordshire Terrier we recognize today. The other was developed into a fighting dog and is classified as the American Pit Bull terrier. The American Pit Bull terrier is still used in fighting circles, despite laws against this practice. The AKC first accepted the American Staffordshire Terrier in 1936. They belong to the Terrier Group and had their name officially accepted as “American Staffordshire Terrier” in 1972. The name was to make the distinction between the Staffordshire Bull Terrier (England) and the American Staffordshire Terrier. American Staffordshire Terrier Appearance
The breed typically weighs between 57 to 67 pounds. They have the look of a fighter, but they are protective and loving members of their families. They are not ideal for apartments or small houses since they have a lot of energy and stamina and will require frequent long walks. American Staffordshire Terrier Characteristics
The American Staffordshire Terrier is sensitive to cold, so if the dog is in a securely fenced yard, it will need to have a warm environment. These dogs are superior guard dogs and need to be socialized at an early age to accept guests and other animals. Early training as a puppy and throughout its life is essential and they can sometimes be difficult to housebreak. American Staffordshire Terrier Health Problems and Issues
This breed is generally healthy; however they suffer from health problems like cataracts, congenital heart disease and hip dysplasia. Some of these things can be screened for a hereditary trait as puppies. The coat is easy to groom and you will need to clip its nail only if they don’t wear down on their own with exercise. More Dog Breed Articles: | 