The American Staffordshire Terrier or AmStaff (called by fans of this dog breed) has a dark origin. It was bred in 19th century Britain by crossing terriers with Bulldogs. The aim was to develop a dog suitable for both vermin catching and various blood dog sports. Fortunately, the cruel “sports” are long banned, and breeders focused on breeding programs that will develop a more mellow and friendlier AmStaff. Today, these dogs are great family pets, especially gentle and protective of the youngest family members.

1. Size

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a larger version of the original, and still present, Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The American Kennel Club recognizes both breeds as separate, however, the UK does not allow the AmStaffs. It is one of the banned dog breeds. The size of the AmStaffs is:

• Male height: 18 to 19 inches (45 to 48 cm)
• Male weight: 55 to 70 pounds (25 to 31 kg)
• Female height: 17 to 18 inches (43 to 45 cm)
• Female weight: 40 to 55 pounds (18 to 25 kg)

This dog is a balanced and muscular dog. The AmStaffs are very strong even though they are considered to be a small dog breed. The neck is muscular and strong, the body is well-defined and wide at the front, and they have free and agile movement. All about this dog speaks to power and strength. 

Males are slightly bigger than females, going up to 19 inches and 70 pounds

2. Color

The American Staffordshire Terrier has a smooth and short coat. They can come in a variety of coat colors, from solid black to solid white, bi-colors, or with or without markings and masks. Some of the breed standard coat colors are:

• Black
• White
• Red
• Blue
• Red brindle
• Black brindle 
• Red sable

Some of the masks/markings are black or blue masks, white markings, patched, spotted, and so on. You can see some examples of coat color in the pictures below.

3. Social Traits

Even today’s American Staffordshire Terriers have a bad reputation that comes from their past when they were bred to participate in cruel animal baiting or fighting sports. However, just like there is a huge difference between today’s Bulldog and a Bulldog used in fighting, there is a huge difference between today’s AmStaffs and the ones people bred in the past. 

Generally speaking, the American Staffordshire Terrier is fiercely loyal and protective of his family. He is affectionate with family members, however, they are not too open to strangers whether it’s a dog or a person. Because of their innate protective nature, we need to make sure they are well-socialized and habituated from their puppyhood and we should never stop with the socialization! 

They are affectionate with family, but can be standoffish with strangers

I’ve heard an AmStaff owner saying these dogs don’t back down no matter how big or dangerous the threat is. This can be a problem if you walk a dog and you come across other dogs that are very reactive or non-socialized. You’ll need to be in full and complete command of your AmStaff, so obedience training is a must!

Socialization and obedience training are a must

They are good with children, often acting as nanny dogs, but we have to remember that dogs have personalities as well, and a lot of their social traits depend on how we treat them. So, socialize your dog, make him friendly and gentle, and you’ll have a dog who’ll be a great addition to your family. 

No matter the breed, don’t leave toddlers or babies unsupervised with dogs; they might knock down the child during rough play or scare them

Good with children: yes
Good with dogs: needs socialization
Good with other animals: yes, needs socialization

4. Activity Needs

The AmStaffs were bred to work which means they have lots of energy that needs to be spent every day in order to keep them healthy and happy. They don’t need too much daily exercise, but they do need it every day! The general rule is that they need up to 1 hour of daily activities. 

AmStaffs don’t need too much exercise but they need it every day

The important thing is to remember these activities have to be fun and meaningful (to the dog). You can just leave your dog to run around the yard alone every day. They need human contact and other dogs. They need to be mentally and physically stimulated, so give them some toys, go on a walk, hike, play indoor and outdoor games, etc. An excellent choice is choosing one of the numerous dog sports and practicing with your dog. It will benefit the whole family!

Activity needs: up to 1 hour a day; suited for either country or town

5. Trainability

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a highly trainable dog. They love to work and they are quick to learn. However, you have to start early. These are strong dogs that need a firm hand and consistency. Don’t be fooled by their size, they are very strong dogs, and obedience and puppy classes are very much recommended.

The American Staffordshire Terrier needs at least 1 hour of everyday exercise

The good thing is that they love to play and learn. So, make the training sessions fun! A reward is also a good way to make your dog quickly learn what to do or not to do. You can use food, treats, or toys. Sometimes a pat on the back or a warm smile and “who’s a good girl/boy?” will do the job too. 

Trainability: Trainability: 5 out of 5 (5 being very trainable)

6. Feeding

How much food a dog needs every day depends on many factors. Some are age, sex, and health. Generally speaking, an adult American Staffordshire Terrier needs from 2 to 3 cups of kibble food daily. It is not recommended to free-feed dogs, especially if you are in the middle of the training. The best option is to divide meals into two – one in the morning and one in the evening. So, that means, if you feed your AmStaff 2 cups a day, you need to give him 1 cup in the morning and the other one in the evening.

Adult American Staffordshire Terrier needs from 2 to 3 cups of kibble food every day

If you have any doubts about how much food your dog specifically needs, the best option is to ask a vet. They can examine your dog and decide not only how much but what food is the best for your dog. 

7. Grooming

The American Staffordshire Terrier has a smooth and short coat. They are very easy to groom. Although they don’t shed a lot, they do shed throughout the year. However, if you brush them once or twice a week, you will keep most of the loose hair away. Also, it will make the coat shiny and healthy. 

AmStaffs need brushing once or twice, preferably with a bristle brush or a hound glove

Another wonderful thing about taking care of the AmStaffs is that they don’t require fancy and various dog brushes, but a bristle brush or a hound glove. The hound glove is also useful to massage the body and spread the natural oils equally. 

Shedding: moderately (weekly brushing)

8. Possible Problems

Generally speaking, the American Staffordshire Terrier is a healthy dog breed. They can have health issues, though, just like any other living being. But, responsible breeding programs which include screen-testing dogs help keep the breed healthy and prolong its lifespan. Possible problems are:

• Hip dysplasia
• Heart problems
• Allergies 
• Thyroid problems

Life expectancy: 12 to 16 years

Final Thoughts

The American Staffordshire Terrier has, just like the American Pit Bulls, a bad reputation. Any dog can become aggressive and dangerous when in the wrong hands. Some dogs do have a more protective nature and that’s why we love the variety of dog breeds, but no dogs should be aggressive. The same goes for Lhasa Apso and AmStaff – socialization, habituation, love, affection, quality food, and consistency. AmStaffs are wonderful family pets, loyal and affectionate. They are playful, they don’t shed a lot, and are easy to groom, and they can thrive in both country and town. Just remember to love your dog, treat him with respect, and not make a tool to scare others and cure your insecurities.

Read Next: Boxer Traits – Breeds 101 

Cover Photo by Jaclyn Clark