American Staffordshire Terriers are muscular, energetic medium size dogs suited to families who like to include their dog in their activities. They are very loyal, love people and make great companions and watchdogs.
| Recommended for | Families |
| Breed Classification | Terrier |
| Other names | American Staffy, Amstaff |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Temperament | Loyal, courageous, friendly |
| Intelligence | Above average |
| Tendency to bark | Moderate |
| Maintenance Level | Medium |
| Health Risk | This breed has an around average probability of having health issues in its lifetime, hence it is one of the more affordable breeds to insure. |
Breed history of American Staffordshire Terriers
The American Staffordshire Terrier was first developed in Birmingham, England from crossing the English Bulldog and a number of older terrier breeds. The purpose was to produce an animal with a great deal of strength, courage and tenacity. Further developed in Staffordshire, the breed finally reached the United States in the 1870’s, where it quickly became popular with pioneering families for protection, companionship and catching hogs and cattle.
After its introduction to the USA, it was bred primarily as a companion dog that could be used for hunting, protection and sport. The American version developed into a more heavy-set and muscular animal, eventually dwarfing its English cousin. Blood sport was a common use for the breed and Amstaffs were popularly chosen for use as fighting dogs until the sport was banned at the turn of the century. They are closely related to the American Pit Bull Terrier, from whom they were bred apart in the 1960’s.
From 1900 the Amstaff was developed to better suit a family environment and it was highly sought after by those wanting a dog with courage and tenacity to guard loved ones and property. The breed’s aggressiveness has largely been removed and the American Staffy has since proven to be a loving and gentle companion.
The breed came to Australia in 1985, was officially recognised in 1987 and the first Australian litter of American Staffy puppies was born in 1990. The first American Staffys to come to Australia were from the Hawaiian Islands.
Physical description of American Staffordshire Terriers
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a stocky, muscular medium-sized breed with a short body, deep chest and broad head. To some, American Staffys have an intimidating appearance, however its heavy-set and muscular build is the breed’s hallmark, giving the impression not only of great strength for its size but also of grace and agility.
The American Staffy coat is short, close and glossy. It comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns including black, brown, fawn, liver, red, white and the well known blue American Staffy.
| Weight range | 25 to 30 kgs |
| Height range | 43 to 48 cm |
| Colours | Black, blue, brown, white |
| Coat length | Short |