The American Staffordshire Terrier is descended from the American Pit Bull Terrier. It was originally intended to be a show strain of this breed, but was first recognized as a separate breed in its own right in 1936.
The breed standard dictates that a good American Staffordshire Terrier should give the impression of agile, graceful strength. An example of this breed that matches the breed standard is stocky, rather than racy or long-legged, with a broad skull and high ears.
This breed has a short, glossy coat which is slightly stiff to the touch. These dogs are tenacious, friendly, and extremely devoted, making them a great family dog. Many people are discovering the benefits of this attentive, stable dog.
Breeding American Staffordshire Terriers is not something to undertake lightly. If you are considering breeding, be sure that you have the facilities, time, and resources to do it properly.
There are many homeless dogs in this country that result from irresponsible breeding. However, if you want to contribute to the wellbeing of the breed in general, and think that you have the resources to breed American Staffordshire Terriers, this can be a very rewarding pursuit.
When breeding any dog, be sure not to look for conformity to standards over the general health of the dog. This sort of breeding has been responsible for defects in many dog breeds, such as the tendency for German Shepherds to suffer from hip dysplasia.
The American Staffordshire Terrier breed has improved greatly over the past 50 years, producing healthy, friendly dogs. It is important to keep these traits in mind when your breed your dogs. Select from parents with known genetic ancestries who are in good health.
This will allow you to more easily predict what your puppies will be like. Be aware that breeding dogs is a very expensive endeavor. Anyone who tells you that you can make a lot of money breeding animals is probably either poorly educated, or does not take adequate care of their breeders.
Remember when breeding that your animals will live to be around twelve years old, and that this is commitment. Once they are too old too breed, you will still need to care for your American Staffordshire Terriers.
Remember that older, pregnant, and very young dogs may need extra veterinary care. Consistent training, attention to the genetics and behaviors of the breed, and good treatment will give you excellent dogs, however.
Breeding the American Staffordshire Terrier for improvement of the breed is a good idea that takes dedication and commitment, but is rewarding in the end.
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