Dog - American Staffordshire Terrier: character, care, health, features and description of the breed, color, photo, reviews of the owners

Good and gentle with their own, dangerous and tough with strangers. All this is about Staffa.

Content

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a loving, faithful, playful dog that spends time with all family members with pleasure. These dogs are quite muscular for their size, which can cause problems on walks if they are not trained properly.

History of the occurrence of the breed American Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier He appeared as a result of crossing the bulldog and terrier, which was originally called the bully or pit-dog. The goal was to create a dog with the strength and perseverance of a bulldog, the speed and dexterity of the terrier. Later he received the name in England Staffordshire Bulterer.
In America, these dogs began to appear in 1870, and at first they were called Pete-Dog, Pit Boulters, later-the American Bulberrier, and even later-the Yankee Terrier.
In 1936 For a year they were accepted for registration at the American Club of Dogging as Staffordshire Terriers. However, the name of the breed It was revised from January 1, 1972, an American one was added to the name. The breeders in this country deduced a look that is heavier by weight than staffordshire Bulterer England, and the name has changed to distinguish them as individual breeds.
Standard of the American Staffordshire Terrier It allows the deviation in weight, but it should be proportional to the size. The main requirement for the dog should be the power unusual for its size, fortress, stability, massive head, muscular body and courage, which is known to all.

There are very few differences between rocks, although american Staffordshire Terriers, As a rule, a little larger than American pithaluerers and seem to have a more flexible character. American Staffordshire Terriers in the modern world are used as guard dogs, help the police, and take part in competitions in weightlifting or dexterity, as well as in the role of domestic animals.
They still have a bad reputation of aggressive dogs, and in some countries stuffs are included in the law on the breed, which prohibits the maintenance and breeding of dogs of this species.

American Staffordshire Terrier: description of the breed

The average life expectancy of representatives of this breed is 12-17 years.

They have strong jaws that they will use to chew everything in a row from boredom, if they do not get enough load. Many furniture pieces were destroyed by the American Staffordshire Terrier, which not physically and mentally stimulated.
Nevertheless, a confident, solid owner who can satisfy the physical requirements of the breed without severe punishments, It will be rewarded with a calm, obedient dog that works well on the scent, performs exercises for dexterity, and can also simply soak up on the couch.

The guardian ability is more based on intimidationthan on specific actions. Their muscular physique and reputation of aggressive dogs serve restraining factor From the alleged offenders, although this reputation is mostly undeserved.
The American Staffordshire Terrier has a lot in common with an American pithalterier. Representatives of both breeds were used in illegal dog sparring.
But educated in the house with love, which gives them proper preparation and socialization, American Staffordshire Terriers are obedient, affectionate animals that are very loyal to the family in which they live.
Dimensions. The male adult of the American Staffordshire Terrier on average reaches the size of 46-51 cm in height, while female individuals tend to be slightly less, on average from 40 to 47 cm in height. The average weight of the American Staffordshire Terrier is from 23 to 36 kg, Although some can weigh more or less.

Color. The color of the nose of the American Staffordshire Terrier should be black. The eyes of amstafs are dark and round. They must be planted low on the face and far from each other. The eyelids should be pink.
Short smooth wool american Staffordshire Terrier It can be of different colors, including blue, balled, white, black and red. An admixture of white and other colors is allowed, as well as spots or strips, or a mixture of white and tiger. But to participate in exhibitions, it is considered a mistake if more than 80 percent of the wool has a white color.

Dog - American Staffordshire Terrier: Features

Although American stuff is often treated with suspicion, the breeders have been working tirelessly since 1900 to selectively reduce the level of aggressiveness. The American Staffordshire Terrier is a particularly smart dog. Highly inquisitive and independent animal, which confidently rushes to defend when he feels that his owner is threatened.
Such loyalty means large attachment to their family And a mild attitude towards children in this family. It is known that Staffe coexists well with children, but still the games should be held under supervision. However, dogs of this breed are best suited for houses with children over six years old.

The breed is very muscular and can play rudely, which can lead to injuries. And also, young children love to poke and push, so it is especially important to teach them to delicate animals to handle animals so that the games are safe for everyone.
Good and consistent preparation of the dog is required if you want your amstaff to behave well. It is known that the breed is very obedient, but requires a strong leader of the family (pack) with a solid character. Inside the family, households should respect the leader and adhere to discipline, otherwise there may be problems with behavior, it will be difficult for American stuff to understand how to behave correctly.
Because of his own strength, perseverance and courage American stuff can be a beautiful watchdog dog. He will protect his family and property, without retreating to the very end. Its high tolerance to pain and aggressiveness in provocation or inhibition by the attacking will lead to decisive and prolonged reconciliation.
American Staffordshire Terriers They can be good guards, but they are more likely to intimidate a potential offender, and if you obviously not provoke a dog, then Staff behaves quite friendly towards people.
Aggression In relation to other dogs on the street or domestic animals, it is common, but early socialization will help to restrain such impulses and adjust the behavior of the pet. It is easier and better to adapt to the living conditions of a small puppy than an adult dog.
Behavioral problems may appear if american Staff It remains unattended by a person for a long period of time. The breed was developed to serve as a companion dog, and regular human contact is necessary to maintain the health and happiness of the animal.
Since amstuff is very energetic, it is important walk The dog is at least once a day, and ideally - twice a day, at least an hour. American Staffordshire Terriers are intense dogs that will pull, chew, dig and bark if they are bored.

Discipline during walking is very important for maintaining order in a pack. Make sure that you demonstrate your dominance over amstaf, instilling good habits on the street to the dog; For example, make the dog sit on command and follow you, and not ahead.

American Staffordshire Terrier: Health

Health. American Staffordshire Terrier, as a rule, a healthy breed, although they are predisposed to some health problems. Purebred representatives of the breed are prone to skin allergies, urinary tract infections and autoimmune diseases. There is a likelihood of development of osteoarthritis or spondylosis at a later age.
Osteoarthritis In general, many dogs that have a massive body are characteristic, because the presence of large and large muscles creates an additional load on the bone structure of the dog, and is also provoked by the lack of necessary vitamins.
Manifested by the appearance of chromium in the gait, decreased mobilitySometimes with pain in movements. It cannot be completely cured, but the use of competent complex therapy will help to significantly improve the quality of the dog’s life.

Spondylosis - a disorder associated with age -related changes throughout the life of the animal, namely, with the gradual wear of the spine. It usually manifests itself in the late stages with lethargy and pain during movement, cannot be treated. However, when providing proper attention and care, it is quite possible to improve the quality of life of the pet.
Other health problems, which can develop in American Staffordshire terriers, include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, demodicosis, cerebellar ataxia, heart disease and dislocation of the cup.

American Staffordshire Terrier: Care

Care. It is known that in american Staffordshire Terriers Unpleasant odor from the mouth, so their teeth should be brushed, at least weekly, preferably even more often to prevent the growth of microbes that cause unpleasant odor from the mouth.
Necessary regularly trim their nailsWhat could be difficult, since the American Staffordshire Terriers, as a rule, do not like when they touch their paws. Encourage them as soon as possible to this procedure, so that the dog feels comfortable when they touch it.

Very important Check your ears For the accumulation of sulfur and garbage weekly, and cleanse as necessary to avoid ear infections or infection with pests. Make regular veterinary examinations and follow the advice of your veterinarian for additional home care.
Short smooth wool american Staffordshire Terrier It does not require complicated care, the breed does not have a “dog smell”, which will allow you to wash it only if necessary to eliminate dirt. However, he needs a weekly brush. And given the fact that it is inclined to dive, cleaning will help reduce the amount of wool in your house.

American Staffordshire Terrier: Nutrition

American Staffordshire Terriers It should be given food compiled for medium and large dogs, with a moderate level of energy. You must consult your veterinarian or professional nutritionist on how to feed your American Staffordshire Terrier and what sizes of portions are required for him.
Their needs will change with age, so don't forget make adjustments from puppy to adult and elderly, in accordance with the recommendations.

You need to feed correctly since childhood

But there are also general recommendations on how to feed the dog:

Feeding It should always occur after a walk, this applies to both puppies and quite adult individuals.
Feeding american Staffordshire Terrier The puppy should be organized using a stand, in order to avoid undesirable curvature of posture. Adjust the height of the stand during the growth of the dog. So, the correct position of the bowl - Strictly at the chest level, in a bowl, the dog can only lower the muzzle.
The temperature of the food for the proper operation of the gastrointestinal tract is very important.
Do not allow the dog to put its hind legs under the case during meals, try to pull them back, accustoming them to the right rack.

Any dog \u200b\u200bneeds a balanced diet in which there are such components:

Protein - is the most important nutrient for dogs, because it helps puppies develop strong and healthy muscles, and then helps adult dogs maintain muscle mass - this is especially important for muscle breed, such as american Staffordshire Terrier.
Fat - Provides a concentrated source of energy for dogs to nourish their metabolism.
Both components should be obtained from animal sources, since recently, concentrated vegetable proteins have been used to produce pets to produce pets to reduce costs. Unfortunately, proteins often do not contain enough amino acids required by dogs.
Plant sources of proteins and fats can only be used as an addition to the main diet. Therefore, carefully study the label before buying food to your pet.
Amstaphs do not have special requirements for carbohydrates in their diet, but whole grain, vegetables and legumes provide them with food fibers, as well as the necessary nutrients. Your pet can also get additional benefits from certain additives, such as prebiotics fibers for maintaining healthy intestinal flora, a probiotic for proper digestion and chelat forms of minerals for optimal absorption of nutrients.

Glucosamine and chondroitin are also useful for medium and large dogs to maintain healthy joints.
As for the characteristics of the diet puppies of American Staffordshire Terriers - They need a minimum 22% protein and 8% fat In his diet. It is best to feed the dog with high -quality food for puppies so that it receives energy and calories necessary for sufficient growth and development.
For adult American Staffordshire Terriers (from 12 months) You should choose high -quality food for adult dogs. This will provide at least 18% of protein and 5% fat, although you may want to give a pet to a protein range from 25% to 30% to help your dog maintain muscle mass without a set of unhealthy weight.
Diet for old American Staffordshire Terriers. As the American Staffordshire Terrier is aging, its metabolism begins to slow down, and the risk of obesity increases. At this time, it is necessary to go to food for elderly dogs to reduce calorie intake and provide additional nutrients that support joints in a healthier state.
In addition to proteins, fats and carbohydrates, you need to add fresh fruits and vegetables to your dog’s diet. They provide a natural source of key vitamins and minerals, and are more biologically valuable than synthetic additives.

American Staffordshire Terrier: Reviews

Reviews about this breed on the Internet are quite different, but more positive, nevertheless, more.

Amalia (Russia, Kazan):“When the decision to buy this particular breed was finally made, we came to the breeders and did not choose a puppy either in color or other indicators. We took the one who chose our family. And never regretted their choice. The dog received a nickname Bax, and very quickly became a member of our family. At the very beginning, when he just began to live in our house, a bucks were allocated in the hallway, but slowly he chose another place in the apartment. It turned out to be a cool dog, a reliable companion, which is always patient with children, very mobile and active, calm, restrained. Not very sensitive to pain, children squeeze him in every way, and he remains calm. He does not snap in response, does not state and does not bark. In general, Amstaff is an excellent choice, he is a wonderful partner in active games or sports training, loves children, but smart and sustained. ”
Alenka (Ukraine):“They once gave us a girl of Amstaff, who was called Zita. She looked very impressive, had a tiger color, and a brilliant wool casting red. Before that, we had dogs of different breeds, but it was this one who was distinguished by incredible strength, it develops an incredible speed when running. The disposition of the dog is cheerful, it treats its friendly, however, if you are dangerous, it can even become aggressive, it is better not to provoke. Our dog was frozen in winter, so she lived in the house, and to make it completely comfortable, slowly climbed under the blanket. Sometimes she snored strongly than incredibly mixed. However, do not forget that the breed belongs to the fighting, and reacts unrestrainedly to other people's dogs, instinctively accepts the rack for the attack, so they limited the access of strangers to the site. Although, any behavior is adjusted, and the most important thing is to love your pet, and treats him with respect. ”

Sylvia (Kazakhstan):“For a long time I was looking for a companion for sports, but so that the dog does not require complicated care. So the choice fell on the representative of the breed Amstaff. And it was a hundred percent hit! The dog became a partner, a defender, and a nanny in one bottle. At first, the relatives were horrified to learn about the chosen breed, since Amstaff had a reputation as aggressive dogs, but I was sure that the right education and sincere love would help. Called Grishka. While he was a puppy, he caused tenderness among others, but as he grew older he began to frighten people more with his appearance, although he remained a friendly and cheerful dog. We walk exclusively on the leash and in the muzzle, I release only in deserted places or on special sites for walking. For walks for 2-3 hours a day, they are required, since without them the dog wreers and misses, he needs such loads. I feed the dog only with dry food of the highest class, sometimes I buy special goodies for dogs to pamper. ”
Anna (Moscow, Russia):“My stuff appeared thanks to my husband, who has long wanted a puppy of this particular kind. There are no nurseries in our city, so we decided to take a chance and buy a puppy, as they say, “with your hands”. We arrived at the breeder, we were led into a room with puppies. They were all friendly and curious. One of them gently but confidently approached his husband, his husband took him in his arms, and the puppy licked him on his cheek. So Khan chose our family. He grew up with a gentle puppy, but did not like to be alone, his husband even took him to work. Of course, we attended training, where without it. They tinned with veterinarians, by the age of 2, everything was leveled. For adults, the dog began to show character, it immediately became clear that he perceives her husband as a leader, and all the others - equal to himself. I understood everything very well, in general, amstaffs are very smart, but, if I didn’t want to - I didn’t do the team, I could gnaw furniture or shoes if you were offended. He never showed aggression, and did not touch the weak, only for the purpose of self -defense. Children are a separate topic. He loves them, allows you to do anything with him! It drags them sticks, catches up with riting balls, runs after a bicycle or a skate all day. Stunningly hardy. Now he is 8 years old, but the dog remains active, like a puppy. Our khan is smart, strong, active, devoted and cheerful dog. If you want the same - choose puppies of this particular breed. "

There are many opinions and reviews, from owners of the breed of the American Staffordshire Terrier, However, most of them are about love, endless devotion, incredible energy and reliable protection.