American Staffordshire

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a medium-size dog, yet he is believed to be one of the strongest of all dogs. A cross between a terrier and the Bulldog, he combines the best qualities of each: the gameness and spirit of the terrier and the courage and boldness of a Bulldog.

The AmStaf was bred to be a fighting dog in the nineteenth century, but the only qualities his breeders were taking advantage of were his courage and strength. The breed is by nature a calm and quiet dog, who loves his family with all his heart and guards them just as dearly. He is famous for being able to sense the difference between friendly strangers and unwanted intruders.

He loves to play fetch and other energetic games, but looks forward to a daily walk. Families will find him an affectionate, intelligent, and protective companion.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: Great strength for his size, muscular, but agile and graceful; alert and aware of his surroundings; stocky and courageous.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height--males, about 18 to 19 inches at the withers; females, about 17 to 18 inches.

Fun Facts

The American Staffordshire Terrier was once considered an "all-American" dog. In fact, in World War I an AmStaf named Stubby earned the rank of sergeant and was the most decorated dog of the war. In the early 1900s, Life magazine frequently featured this breed.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.