History of occurrence
A cousin to the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier was originally bred by crossing certain old terriers (e.g., the English Smooth Terrier) with an old variety of Bulldog.
The American Staffordshire's excellent fighting ability made the breed an instant favorite for fanatics of dogfighting, a sport which became popular in the United States in the late 19th century. Unlike dogfighting fans in England, however, Americans preferred fighting larger "pits." In the U.S., the dogs were known by such names as Yankee Terrier, Pit Bull Terrier, and American Bull Terrier.
The breed was accepted for registration in the American Kennel Club's stud book in 1936, later revising the breed's name to American Staffordshire Terrier in 1972.
Docility became nearly as important as ferociousness for fighting dogs, as handlers needed to be able to control these powerful dogs in the midst of a fight. The American Staffordshire was no different, and it soon developed into a trustworthy dog with a sweet disposition. In spite of this, many chose the breed for its ravenous fighting quality.
Breed-specific laws in the U.S. would target the American Staffordshire in the 1980s, seeking to limit the population of the breed. Be that as it may, the American Staffordshire is still loved today by fanciers who prefer this playful yet misunderstood breed.
General form
The American Staffordshire Terrier should give the impression of great strength for his size. A well put together dog, muscular but agile and graceful. Should be stocky, not long legged or racy in outline.
Отличительная особенность породы American Staffordshire Terrier
Head and skull: head medium length, deep tough, broad skull, very pronounced cheek muscles, distinct stop.
Muzzle medium length, rounded on upper side to fall away abruptly below eyes.
Jaws well defined.
Underjaw to be strong and have biting power.
Lips close and even, no looseness. Nose definitely black, Dudley nose undesirable.
Eyes: dark and round, low down in skull and set far apart.
Ears: uncropped ears should be short and held rose or half prick. Set high. Full drop to be penalised.
Mouth: upper teeth to meet tightly outside lower teeth in front. Undershot or overshot mouths undesirable.
Neck: heavy, slightly ached, tapering from shoulders to back of skull. No looseness of skin. Medium length.
Back fairly short. Slightly sloping from withers to rump with gentle short slope at rump to base of tail. Well sprung ribs, deep in rear.
Ribs: close together.
Chest deep and broad.
Loins slightly tucked.
Shoulders: strong and muscular with blades wide and sloping.
Front legs: should be straight, large or round bones, pasterns upright. No resemblance of bend in front.
Forelegs: set rather wide apart to permit chest development.
Hindquarters: well muscled, let down at hocks, turning neither in nor out.
Feet: of moderate size, well-arched and compact.
Short in comparison to size, low set, tapering to a fine point, not curled or held over back. Not docked. Tail too long or badly carried undesirable.
Hair: short, close, stiff to the touch, and glossy.
Colour: any colour, solid, part, or patched is permissible, all white, more than 80% white, black and tan, and liver.
Must be springy but without roll or pace.
Character
The generally playful and docile Staff (as it's lovingly referred to at times), shows affection to strangers in the presence of its owners. This protective dog is basically good with children, but is aggressive towards strange dogs, particularly those who pose a challenge to it. The Staff is daring, tenacious and adamant, and is always craving for its owner's attention and love.
Maintenance care
The American Staffordshire Terrier can stay outside in temperate climates, but it feels most comfortable while indoors, sharing its master’s home. This energetic breed needs daily exercise, such as a vigorous game outdoors or a long leash-led walk. Minimal coat care is required.
The breed is also often placed in group commonly referred to as "pit bulls;" therefore, be prepared to educate strangers or passerby of the breed's genteel nature when walking the Staffordshire.
Lifespan — 12-14 years.
Dignity
Looks imposing, so makes an effective deterrent, but is usually non-aggressive with people.
Has a sleek, easy-groom coat.
Difficulty keeping
Aggression toward other animals.
Destructiveness when bored.
Diseases
This breed is prone to minor health problems such as elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and heart disease, and major ailments like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), canine hip dysplasia (although seldom seen), and cerebellar ataxia. The American Staffordshire Terrier may also suffer from cruciate ligament rupture and allergies. To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may run hip, thyroid, cardiac, elbow, knee, and eye exams on the dog.
