The American Staffordshire Terrier, or 鈥淎mStaff鈥� for short, is also called a Bully Breed. Despite the breed鈥檚 stocky appearance, these sweet, loving dogs move gracefully with a springy gait that exudes confidence. Although the AmStaff鈥檚 history involved a fighting background, these dogs today are fun-loving, good-natured, and smart. Here are some interesting facts about the American Staffordshire Terrier you may not have known.
They鈥檝e Had Many Names
The American Staffordshire Terrier鈥檚 early Mastiff ancestors date back to the early 1800s from Bulldog crosses and Terriers known in England as Pitdog and Pitbull Terrier. In 1936, the American Kennel Club recognized a subset of the pitbull population in the United States. Several names for the new breed included the American Bull Terrier and Staffordshire Terrier. In 1972, the AKC recognized the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, but added 鈥淎merican鈥� to its name to identify the two separate breeds.
Notable War Heroes
鈥淪tubby,鈥� an AmStaff from Connecticut, earned the rank of sergeant in World War I after capturing a German spy on the battlefield. In the Civil War, another AmStaf 鈥淪allie,鈥� refused to leave wounded men in her regiment at Gettysburg.
A Showbiz Favorite
A highly trainable breed, AmStaffs have previously appeared on the big screen. 鈥淧etey鈥� the American Staffordshire Terrier appeared in the old 鈥淥ur Gang鈥� films of the 1930s, and AmStaff 鈥淭ige鈥� modeled for Buster Brown Shoes. More recently, 鈥淩ush鈥� the American Staffordshire Terrier has appeared in TV shows and films including 鈥淭he Good Doctor,鈥� 鈥淭he Assignment,鈥� and 鈥淭he Predator.鈥�
A People-Oriented Breed
This breed does best as a regular part of the family and when given plenty of attention. AmStaffs are unhappy if left alone in a yard or indoors for long hours and will likely find a way to entertain themselves, which owners may not like. They enjoy following their owners from room to room and luring them into a game by picking up a shoe or tossing a ball into a lap.
They Protected the Pilgrims
American Staffordshire Terriers helped early American settlers by hunting large game, guarding the homestead, protecting the family from thieves and wolves, and hauling farm equipment.
Built for Dog Sports
A solid work ethic, high intelligence, and a robust athletic build make the AmStaff a capable canine sports competitor. The breed excels in any activity owners want to teach, especially agility, obedience, dock diving, carting, search and rescue, and protection.
Loyal and Trustworthy Dogs
Intelligent, confident, and good-natured, this breed can easily switch gears to act courageous if an intruder threatens the household. The breed thrives on mental and physical challenges but has a lovey-dovey, kick-back personality around the house.
Strong Jaws for Chewing
Bully jaws are well-defined and incredibly powerful. The AmStaff can happily chomp on an for hours just as they could rip it apart in seconds.
Built Like a Brick House
A member of the AKC Terrier Group, AmStaffs are stocky with a muscular bull-type body. Males are typically 18 to 19 inches tall, and females are 17 to 18 inches tall, when measured at the shoulder. The breed鈥檚 broad head, beefy body, and alert personality give it a formidable appearance.
Easy to Groom
The breed鈥檚 short, smooth coat is low-shedding and easy to keep clean. A monthly bath and keeps the AmStaff looking neat and tidy. Owners should trim their dog鈥檚 nails weekly, as they grow fast.