When it comes to bringing home an American Staffordshire Terrier, you should know that training and caring for this breed involves careful attention. Since the dog has a history of possessing a dominant personality, firm training will need to take place when the Amstaff is at an early age.
Usually, training sessions go quite well since the dog is known to harbor a desire to please their owners. When entering your American Staffordshire Terrier into training, it is important to know that they should be on a leash at all times, as they are known to carry a strong instinct to fight and protect.
Vaccinations
Whether you bring home an Amstaff puppy or have adopted an adult dog, it is vital to make sure they have received all of the proper vaccinations, such as rabies shots and other immunity-boosting requirements. Owners should also keep an eye out for the yearly booster shots and worming medication. The veterinarian can also provide a wealth of information regarding effective flea control products.
Feeding
When feeding your American Staffordshire Terrier, a high-grade dog food is suggested. Usually, a top-quality product will include meat as its first ingredient. The crude protein of the dog food should be no less than 30%, while the crude fat should not fall under 20%. A fiber content of 4% or less is recommended.
Training and Socialization
Not only is training an important part of caring for your American Staffordshire Terrier, but also socialization, which helps to curb the dominant and aggressive tendencies that the breed is known for. The dog needs to feel secure and comfortable when they are around other people, as well as other dogs. Socialization helps Amstaffs develop positive behavior in terms of the way they interact with others. During training sessions, positive encouragement is vital.
Housetraining
A helpful dose of patience is needed for owners entering the housetraining phase and may take more time and tolerance when it comes to the American Staffordshire Terrier breed. It is important to know that puppies may need to relieve themselves up to six times per day. A good way to approach this phase of training is to encourage bathroom use after meals.
Exercise
The Amstaff is very receptive towards exercise and the breed should be allowed to run around or exercise on a daily basis. When taking him or her out in public, they should be kept on a leash to avoid confrontation with other dogs.
Grooming
The coat of an American Staffordshire Terrier should be brushed on a daily basis using a brush with a firm bristle. A damp cloth will also bring out the sheen of the coat when used in a buffing manner. Shampooing is also a suggested, while the nails needs to be trimmed every 2 to 3 weeks.
Health Concerns
Before committing to an American Staffordshire Terrier, you should familiarize yourself with some of the common diseases and disorder that may arise in the future.
This particular breed of dog is prone to a variety of health conditions. An Amstaff may face hip dysplasia (malformed hip joint that results in pain, lameness, and arthritis); cataracts (reduced sight in eyes that can lead to blindness); gastric torsion (sudden life-threatening illness regarding air filling in the stomach); lick granuloma (a skin and behavior concern that involves continuous licking of one area); entropion (eyelid condition causing inward rolling); and deafness.
Overall, the average life span of an American Staffordshire Terrier is
10 to 12 years, and with proper care and attention, your pet will live
a full, healthy, happy life.
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