When choosing an American Staffordshire Terrier, there are many different factors to consider in order to ensure the best fit between owner and canine.
With an ill-fated history dotted with aggression and dog fighting, the breed is frequently confused with the Pit Bull, which is an entirely separate breed of dog. Over time, the power and aggression once associated with the breed now translates into a loyal and protective member of the family.
Choosing an American Staffordshire Terrier Puppy
As you gather in front of a litter of American Staffordshire Terrier puppies, you should take a good first look at the group as a collective.
A litter of four out of five puppies that runs away or apprehensively barks at prospective owners is not a good sign. Chances are, the fifth puppy will also carry too much shyness or distrust in his genes.
There are many other ways to evaluate a litter to pick out a winner. First, weeding out the shyer puppies is suggested, which may later grow into shy adults with a higher tendency to snap at others as a defense mechanism. These puppies usually hide, shrink away, or tuck their tails between their legs.
A normal American Staffordshire Terrier puppy is one that is inquisitive, friendly, and trusting. They may meander about your feet, play with your shoelaces, crawl into your lap, or paw at your fingers.
You may also choose a proper American Staffordshire Terrier puppy by the way they interact with their brothers and sisters. Some will appear strong, outgoing, bossy, or boisterous. Others are more quiet, gentle, or submissive, and may become the most picked on of the bunch.
It is also important to note the puppies that dominate the toys or wins all of the tug-of-war games. Some families prefer a strong-willed dog, while others enjoy a sweet-natured puppy that will later become dependent on their masters. The best bet is to seek out a puppy that is good-natured.
A good method to test out the character of a puppy is to clap your hands, snap fingers, jingle keys, whistle, and tap your feet. This will help sort out the curious puppies who show interest, the bold ones that investigate, and the apprehensive pups who stay behind. It is important to choose an American Staffordshire Terrier that is alert and filled with confidence.
Choosing a Full-Grown American Staffordshire Terrier
If you are considering bringing home a full-grown American Staffordshire Terrier, you may want to pay attention to the appearance and size of the dog. His body should look strong with a muscular and stocky build. The triangular ears of an American Staffordshire Terrier may appear docked or fall downward.
The dog's coat should be short and thick, and may display a variety of colors. No more than 80% of his or her body should be white. Additional characteristics should include dark, alert eyes and a short tail that is usually carried in the downward position.
The typical height of an American Staffordshire Terrier is 17 to 19 inches from the shoulder with a general weight of 40 to 50 pounds.
As for temperament, an American Staffordshire Terrier should exhibit a gentle and loving nature towards the individuals he or she comes in contact with on a daily basis. They display a high level of protection in regards to children, their masters, and the property that belongs to them.
An aggressive behavior may surface when introduced to strangers, but
when socialized and trained at an early age, American Staffordshire Terriers
are intelligent and obedient.
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