Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.

Originally bred in the United Kingdom for baiting bulls, fighting, and hunting beginning in the 1800s, AmStaffs have evolved into smart, confident, good-natured companions. Today, they're known as gentle, playful lovers, making them a wonderful breed for many families.

In this post, we share insights from almost 10,000 Sniffspot users, offering practical advice for new and prospective American Staffordshire Terrier owners. Whether you're considering owning or rescuing an American Staffordshire Terrier yourself or already have one, you'll find valuable tips on how to care for and enjoy life with this affectionate breed.

As Sniffspot user Kassie says, "I love how she has endless energy and love."

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Survey 2024

American Staffordshire Terrier Quick Characteristics

• Breed Type: Terrier
• Size: Medium
• Life Expectancy: 12 - 15 years
• Healthy Weight Range: 40 - 70 lbs
• Height Range: 13 - 16 in
• Temperament: Playful, Friendly, Loyal
• Coat Type: Short and smooth
• Color: White, tan, black, brown, mixed

About American Staffordshire Terriers

According to 452 Sniffspot community users who shared real-world data about their American Staffordshire Terrier, we learned these dogs are playful, friendly, and loyal. Unlike barkless breeds, AmStaffs may be vocal, but they're not typically excessive barkers.

The American Staffordshire Terrier is very friendly and social with strangers and very friendly and social with children. When living with an American Staffordshire Terrier, 81% of our owners said a large house with a fenced yard is the best environment. Additionally, 32% of owners said an apartment or condominium with regular walks is also acceptable.

This AKC breed is moderately trainable and learns commands with consistent training. Owners say the American Staffordshire Terrier learns best with positive reinforcement (treats, praise, rewards), consistent daily training routines, and the use of training aids (e.g., harnesses, leashes, training collars).

When it comes to exercise, 46% of Sniffspot owners say their American Staffordshire Terrier benefits from moderate amounts of exercise, like regular walks and play sessions. The Sniffspot American Staffordshire Terrier community would recommend this dog breed to first-time dog owners, though prospective owners should be aware of potential breed restrictions in some areas.

American Staffordshire Terrier History and Origin

Originally bred in England for blood sports like bull-baiting, these dogs were crossed with terriers to enhance their agility and fighting prowess. Despite their fighting origins, they were selectively bred to be human-friendly, as dogs that harmed people during fights were eliminated. When these dogs arrived in the United States, they were used for fighting but also found roles as versatile working dogs on the new American frontier.

The divide between the American Staffordshire Terriers and the American Pit Bull Terrier breeds became formalized in the early 20th century. While the American Kennel Club (AKC) initially rejected the pit bull for registration due to its association with fighting, it eventually recognized the breed under the name "American Staffordshire Terrier" in 1936.

This name change was meant to distance the breed from its fighting past. Over time, the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier diverged, with the AKC officially distinguishing them by adding "American" to the name. Today, the American Staffordshire Terrier is a recognized breed with a distinct lineage, while the term "Pit Bull" remains more general and sometimes includes American Staffordshire Terriers in non-AKC registries.

While pit bulls were bred for gameness and vary greatly in appearance, Staffies were selectively bred for a consistent appearance and overall soundness. Despite their different paths, Staffies have retained their deep affection for humans, a trait rooted in their history with people.

What Were American Staffordshire Terriers Bred For?

The American Staffordshire Terrier has quite the tail to tell! These muscular pups got their start in 19th century Birmingham, England, where they were originally bred for ratting (keeping those pesky vermin in check) and, unfortunately, dog fighting. But don't let that rough start fool you – these dogs have come a long way!

Back in the day, clever breeders mixed old-type Bulldogs with various terrier breeds, creating a strong, agile, and determined dog. These hard-working pooches earned their kibble in butcher shops and slaughterhouses, where their strength and smarts made them invaluable teammates.

When these four-legged friends made their way to American shores in the 1870s, U.S. breeders had a different vision in mind. They wanted to supersize these pups just a bit and focus on creating the ultimate family companion. Think of it as an extreme makeover, dog edition! They carefully selected for more even-tempered, friendly personalities while keeping all that signature AmStaff charm.

Fast forward to today, and modern American Staffordshire Terriers are total showstoppers – literally! They're bred primarily as loving family companions and show dogs, though many still flex their athletic muscles in dog sports like agility, obedience, and weight pulling. While they've kept their working-dog determination and loyalty (once an AmStaff sets their mind to something, good luck changing it!), these days they're more likely to be found snuggling on the couch or showing off their skills in the dog park than doing any heavy lifting.

Are American Staffordshire Terriers the Same as Pitbulls?

While the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier share common ancestors, they are now considered separate breeds. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes the AmStaff as a distinct breed, while the term "Pit Bull" remains more general and sometimes includes American Staffordshire Terriers in non-AKC registries.

It's important to note the differences between the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. While both are sometimes referred to as "Staffies," the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a British breed that is typically smaller and more compact than the AmStaff. The AmStaff stands 17-19 inches tall, while the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is usually 14-16 inches tall.

American Staffordshire Terrier Traits and Characteristics

We compiled Sniffspot community submissions on their own dog breeds to determine these American Staffordshire Terrier dog traits and characteristics:

• Temperament: Playful, Friendly, Loyal,
• Energy Level: Moderate
• Trainability: Moderately trainable
• Grooming needs: Low maintenance
• Good with Kids: Very friendly and social with children
• Good with Other Pets: Can be aggressive or fearful towards other pets

AmStaffs are known for their glossy coat and muscular build. They have a short, stiff coat that's easy to maintain, unlike long-haired breeds that require more intensive grooming. Their coat contributes to their distinctive appearance and adds to their appeal as a low-maintenance breed in terms of grooming.

What to Expect as an American Staffordshire Terrier Dog Owner

As an American Staffordshire Terrier owner, it's important to know the best dog breed tips as well as expectations from current American Staffordshire Terrier owners. Understanding the breed standards set by the American Kennel Club can help you provide the best care for your AmStaff.

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Research 2024

Grooming Needs | Low-Maintenance

American Staffordshire Terrier dogs require low-maintenance grooming. This means American Staffordshire Terrier owners should expect minimal grooming, like occasional brushing and baths. AmStaffs have a short and smooth coat, ideal for easy maintenance. Their coat is considered moderate shed, which is less than many long-haired breeds.

To keep your American Staffordshire Terrier's coat healthy and up to breed standards, commit to occasional baths and weekly brushing. Of the various kinds of coat maintenance for common breeds in the terrier group, the coat grooming needs for American Staffordshire Terriers are considered low maintenance. Their short, stiff coat typically only needs a quick brush to remove loose hair and maintain its glossy appearance.

Exercise Needs | Moderate

American Staffordshire Terriers require moderate activity each day. Though one of the most popular dog breeds, Staffies are considered a relatively athletic, high-energy breed, requiring a great deal of exercise.

Staffies make great pets, and they thrive with between 1-2 hours of activity each day, including walks and active play sessions. Owners of Staffies report their dogs especially love playing with squeaky toys, chasing/playing with a ball or frisbee, and tug-of-war.

When medium breeds like Staffies don't get sufficient exercise, they're more likely to act out on undesirable behaviors like barking, reactivity, and chewing. They need consistent training, mental activity, and regular moderate exercise to avoid falling into bad habits. A well-socialized AmStaff with proper exercise is less likely to develop behavioral issues. Their springy gait makes them excellent jogging or running companions for active owners.

Diet and Nutrition

What should you feed your American Staffordshire Terrier to keep him healthy? As a Moderate energy breed, what you feed them is important. A reported 59% of our community feed their Staffie commercial dry kibble.

With moderate exercise, Staffies should eat up to 2 cups of vet-recommended food to maintain a healthy weight of around 40 - 70 lbs. However, your American Staffordshire Terrier's ideal weight and food depend on your pet's sex, activity level, and age.

Breed Health Concerns

The American Staffordshire Terrier breed is most prone to skin conditions (e.g., allergies, dermatitis) and digestive issues (e.g., bloating, sensitive stomach). Above all, a reported 65% of our American Staffordshire Terrier owners reported skin conditions like allergies, yeast infections, impetigo, ringworm, alopecia, and folliculitis. Your dog's risk for these challenges increase as they age.

Similarly, 33% reported digestive issues like constipation and lack of appetite. Lastly, 32% of American Staffordshire Terrier owners claim their dog struggles with joint problems like arthritis, elbow dysplasia, degenerative issues, and osteosarcoma — common AmStaff health concerns.

Canine hip dysplasia is another concern in this breed. Regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage this condition. Despite these potential health issues, AmStaffs are generally considered a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12-16 years.

If you're worried about any of these health issues above, talk to your AmStaff's vet.

How Friendly Are American Staffordshire Terriers?

Another important thing to consider when adopting a Staffie is whether or not they fit with your current family. How friendly are American Staffordshire Terriers compared to other medium-sized breeds?

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Survey 2024

With moderate training, you can hone your Staffie's protective instinct into loving and playful family dog. Introducing your pet to positive reinforcement (treats, praise, rewards) and consistent daily training routines early helps them avoid undesirable behaviors like reactivity and anxiety.

It's worth noting that AmStaffs are a people-oriented dog breed. They form strong bonds with their families and are often referred to as "nanny dogs" due to their patience and gentleness with children.

Our community American Staffordshire Terrier owners comment on their pet's friendliness:

• "Very friendly and loving. Wants to learn and please. Very easy to command. Overall best breed in my opinion." (Christen)
• "He’s incredibly loyal and very friendly. Although bully breeds may have a negative reputation, he’s been snapped at by other dogs and remains neutral and friendly." (Caitlyn)

How to Train an American Staffordshire Terrier

Whether you're adopting a Staffie puppy or a grown American Staffordshire Terrier adult, training is a large part of owning a medium breed. When you fail to train your Staffie properly, they're more likely to display undesirable behaviors like reactivity, anxiety, and so on. Providing stimulating activities is a great first step, but this needs to be paired with the right training for your Staffie.

As a terrier breed, American Staffordshire Terriers benefit from praise and positive reinforcement. Here's what our Staffie community recommended based on their experience with their own dogs:

• Positive Reinforcement (94%): This includes treats, praise, rewards, and so on for positive behavior.
• Consistent Routines (55%): A consistent training routine allows your pet to get comfortable with expectations.
• Training Aids (45%): Dog training aids like martingale collars, walking harnesses, and no-pull attachments.

As dogs bred for baiting bulls, fighting, and hunting, Staffies are considered moderately trainable, often benefiting from a professional trainer.

What Do Owners Love About American Staffordshire Terriers?

We asked Sniffspot Staffie dog owners what they love the most about their American Staffordshire Terrier pups, and here's what they had to say:

• "My dog is super sweet with the family, and she loves walks." (Chelsea)
• "This breed is intelligent and truly wants to be integrated into their human's lives." (Alisa)
• "He is so affectionate and loyal. He can be left alone for hours, or cuddle up right next to me. He’s down for anything I ask of him and he’s just the ultimate love bug. There is nothing like his love and big goofy smile." (Cailey)
• "I love how adaptable my AmStaff is. Whether we're lounging at home or out for a run, he's always up for anything. His coat is so easy to maintain too - just a quick brush and he looks show-ready!" (Mark)

Celine Druguet on Unsplash

What Are the Biggest Challenges for American Staffordshire Terrier Owners?

Similarly, Staffie owners shared some of the biggest challenges of living with an American Staffordshire Terrier:

• "Despite years of trying to train and desensitize, still very much hates other dogs and cannot be distracted in the moment." (Chelsea)
• "His weariness of other dogs makes it hard to go to parks or out to dog-friendly spaces." (Scierra)
• "Anxiety and skin sensitivity. Also everyone is scared of her so she is in turn scared…" (Kassie)
• "Dealing with breed-specific legislation and breed restrictions can be challenging. Some landlords and insurance companies have policies against 'pit bull type' dogs, which often includes AmStaffs." (Rachel)
• "As a controversial breed, we sometimes face prejudice from people who don't understand the breed. Education and advocacy are a big part of being an AmStaff owner." (Tyler)

Is an American Staffordshire Terrier Right for a First-Time Dog Owner?

Source: Sniffspot 2024 Community Dog Breed Survey

According to 58% of our Sniffspot community, American Staffordshire Terriers are a great first-time dog. This comes from their needs and moderate exercise needs.

While AmStaffs can make great pets for first-time owners, it's important to be aware of potential breed bans or restrictions in your area. Their breed popularity has led to some misconceptions, so first-time owners should be prepared to be ambassadors for the breed.

American Staffordshire Terrier owners say it best:

• "High energy working breed, loves pleasing but needs consistent stimulation and exercise for 2-3 hours a day. On the plus side, she also loves being a couch, potato, and snuggling whenever you’re not walking." (Kelly)
• "Mine is very protective if there is any off-leash dog." (Mollie)
• "Affectionate and loving. We have two who are service dogs and they are truly amazing!" (Lisa)

American Staffordshire Terrier Breed Restrictions and Insurance Guidelines

Owning an American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) comes with some unique considerations. While these dogs make wonderful family pets, their classification among restricted dog breeds can affect everything from housing to insurance coverage. Here's what potential AmStaff owners need to know about breed-specific restrictions.

Homeowners Insurance for American Staffordshire Terriers

Many homeowners insurance companies include American Staffordshire Terriers on their restricted breed list. This can mean higher insurance premiums or even coverage denials. However, several major insurance providers like State Farm and Farmers Insurance offer breed-neutral policies, evaluating each dog based on behavior rather than breed. When shopping for AmStaff-friendly insurance, always disclose your dog's breed and ask specifically about their policies regarding American Staffordshire Terriers.

American Staffordshire Terrier Housing Restrictions

Finding pet-friendly housing with an AmStaff requires extra planning. Many apartments and rental properties have breed restrictions that affect American Staffordshire Terriers. Successful AmStaff owners often prepare a "pet resume" including:

• Canine Good Citizen certification (by the American Kennel Club)
• Training class certificates
• Vet references
• Pet insurance documentation
• Photos of your AmStaff in family settings

Breed-Specific Legislation for American Staffordshire Terriers

Local breed-specific laws can impact where you can live with your AmStaff. Some cities maintain restrictions on American Staffordshire Terriers, including:

• Mandatory muzzling in public areas
• Special licensing requirements
• Additional insurance requirements
• Restricted access to dog parks (not including private dog parks)

The landscape for American Staffordshire Terrier ownership is improving as more dog-friendly cities and insurance companies move toward behavior-based policies rather than breed restrictions. A well-trained AmStaff can help demonstrate why these loyal, family-friendly dogs deserve to be judged on their individual merits rather than breed stereotypes.

Advice for American Staffordshire Terrier Owners

Luckily, our Sniffspot community is full of experienced, trustworthy Staffie owners. These American Staffordshire Terrier breed owners share the most essential dog breed tips and advice for prospective or new dog owners:

Be prepared to advocate for this breed.

• "Be a good advocate for this misunderstood breed by going above and beyond with training and courtesy to others." (Carey)
• "Be aware and prepared for people to misunderstand your thick-headed bully breed! Also be prepared to advocate for them." (Caitlyn)
• "You have to understand that this breed gets a bad rap so you need to be sure to protect them from people and be strong enough to show people your dog is under control. You need to always be in control of the dog and control the people around you. He/She can't speak for himself so the job is tougher. You need to be their advocate." (Michelle)

Socialize your Staffie early.

• "Socialize them with people and other animals as much as possible from a very young age." (Cheyenne)
• "If you have a puppy definitely socialize while they are 8-16 weeks. If you have an adult dog; learn about enrichment activities and outlets for their high energy." (A.B.)

Be proactive about skin allergies.

• "Start training and socializing EARLY and address any possible allergies as early as possible." (Andrea)
• "Get pet insurance, these dogs are likely going to have allergies of some kind that will be expensive to treat over the years!" (Vic)

Understand the breed's history and needs.

• "Remember that AmStaffs are different from Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Pitbull Terriers, even though they're often confused. Understanding your dog's specific breed characteristics will help you provide the best care." (Samantha)
• "Invest in sturdy toys and gear. Their powerful jaws can make quick work of flimsy toys!" (Mike)
• "Don't let the 'tough dog' image fool you. These are sensitive, affectionate dogs that thrive on human companionship. They're not suited to being left alone for long periods." (David)

Make sure this is the right breed for you.

• "You need patience and diligent training, but you’ll have the best dog on earth if you do that. Impossible not to fall in love with their goofy behaviors and loving energy." (Sarah)
• "AmStaffs are strong dogs. Make sure you're physically capable of handling them, especially during the teenage months when they might test boundaries." (Lisa)
• "Do it! Do it but be ready to advocate for your dog. A lot of pitties have traumatic backgrounds and it's our job as owners to make sure they are safe and respected. Some pitties are dog/people aggressive but that doesn't make them bad dogs. They just need someone to help them set their boundaries. Some pitties love dogs and people and it's our job to put them in an environment where they can be loved." (Mary)

Frequently Asked Questions about the American Staffordshire Terrier

What is the average lifespan of an American Staffordshire Terrier?

The average lifespan of an American Staffordshire Terrier is typically between 12 - 15 years years.

What is the size of an American Staffordshire Terrier?

An adult American Staffordshire Terrier weighs between 40 - 70 lbs and stands between 17 - 19 inches tall at the shoulder. This makes them slightly larger than their British cousins, the Staffordshire Bull Terriers, who typically stand 14 - 16 inches tall.

How much grooming does an American Staffordshire Terrier need?

American Staffordshire Terriers require low maintenance grooming. Their short, stiff coat is one of the easiest canine coats to maintain. Regular grooming helps to keep their coat healthy and manageable. AmStaffs have a short coat, which is well-suited for protection from the elements. They are considered moderate shedders.

To maintain your American Staffordshire Terrier's coat, it's important to bathe regularly and consider professional grooming once a year. However, compared to long-haired breeds, the kinds of coat maintenance required for AmStaffs are minimal.

How much exercise does an American Staffordshire Terrier need?

American Staffordshire Terriers require moderate activity each day. Though one of the most popular dog breeds, Staffies are classified as a moderately athletic, somewhat high-energy breed.

Staffies are excellent companions and flourish with between 1-2 hours of activity each day, including walks and active play sessions. Owners of Staffies note that their dogs particularly enjoy chasing/playing with a ball or frisbee, playing with squeaky toys, and tug-of-war.

If medium breeds like Staffies don't receive enough exercise, they may develop unwanted behaviors. These dogs need ongoing training, mental stimulation, and consistent exercise to channel their energy effectively.

How friendly are American Staffordshire Terriers with children?

According to our data, American Staffordshire Terriers are very friendly and social with children.

How well do American Staffordshire Terriers get along with other pets?

Our research indicates that American Staffordshire Terriers are very friendly with other pets with other pets.

What should you feed your American Staffordshire Terrier to keep him healthy?

As a moderate energy breed, the diet of your Staffie is crucial. A significant 66% of our community feeds their Staffie commercial dry kibble.

For optimal health, Staffies should consume 1 to 3 cups of vet-recommended food to maintain a healthy weight of around 40 - 70 lbs pounds. The exact amount and type of food will depend on your American Staffordshire Terrier's sex, activity level, and age.

What health concerns are common for American Staffordshire Terriers?

The American Staffordshire Terrier breed is particularly prone to digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite and skin conditions like allergies, yeast infections, impetigo, ringworm, alopecia, and folliculitis. Our data shows that 28% of American Staffordshire Terrier owners reported digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite. Staffie's risk for these health issues increases as they age.

Additionally, 22% reported skin conditions like allergies, yeast infections, impetigo, ringworm, alopecia, and folliculitis. Finally, 20% of American Staffordshire Terrier owners indicated their dog struggles with joint problems like arthritis, elbow dysplasia, degenerative issues, and osteosarcoma, which are common Staffie health concerns.

Are American Staffordshire Terriers the same as Pit Bulls?

While American Staffordshire Terriers are often grouped under the general term "Pit Bull," they are a distinct AKC breed. The term "Pit Bull" is not a specific breed but rather a category that can include American Staffordshire Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, and sometimes other bully breeds.

The AKC recognizes the American Staffordshire Terrier as a separate breed with its own breed standards. It's important for owners to understand these distinctions, especially when dealing with breed-specific legislation or restrictions.

Resources for American Staffordshire Terrier Owners

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a wonderful breed that offers a unique combination of strength, affection, and loyalty. As a distinct AKC breed, AmStaffs have carved out their own identity separate from Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Pit Bull Terriers, though they share common ancestors.

While their muscular build and history may intimidate some, well-socialized AmStaffs are known to be smart, confident, good-natured companions. Their glossy, short coat makes them low-maintenance in terms of grooming, especially compared to long-haired breeds.

However, prospective owners should be aware of the challenges that come with this breed, including potential breed restrictions and the need for proper socialization and training. Despite these challenges, for those willing to put in the effort, AmStaffs can be affectionate, loyal, and rewarding pets.

As with any dog, it's crucial to understand the breed's needs, health concerns, and characteristics before bringing an AmStaff into your home. With proper care, training, and love, an American Staffordshire Terrier can be an excellent addition to many households, bringing joy and companionship for years to come.

Whether you're a current American Staffordshire Terrier dog owner or you're considering adopting an AmStaff, Sniffspot is here to lend a helping hand. Here are some of the most relevant resources for American Staffordshire Terrier owners:

• Staffordshire Terrier Club of America
• Most Popular American Staffordshire Terrier Dog Names
• Bombshell Bullies Pit Rescue, Inc.
• AKC Breed Standard for American Staffordshire Terriers

Remember to check local regulations regarding breed-specific legislation, as this can affect American Staffordshire Terriers in some areas.

Sources:

"American Staffordshire Terrier Dog Breed Information." (American Kennel Club)