Nose: Definitely black.

      Neck: Heavy, slightly arched, tapering from shoulders to back of skull.

      Muzzle: Medium length, rounded on upper side to fall away abruptly below eyes.

      Jaws: Well defined.

      Lips: Close and even, no looseness.

      Shoulders: Strong and muscular with blades wide and sloping.

      Body: Well-sprung ribs, deep in rear. Forelegs set rather wide apart to permit chest development.

      Chest: Deep and broad.

      Legs: The front legs should be straight, large or round bones, pastern upright.

      Feet: Moderate size, well-arched and compact.

      Back: Fairly short. Slight sloping from withers to rump with gentle short slope at rump to base of tail. Loins slightly tucked.

      Tail: Short in comparison to size, low set, tapering to a fine point.

      Coat: Short, close, stiff to the touch, and glossy.

      Color: Any color, solid, parti, or patched is permissible.

      Hindquarters: Well-muscled, let down at hocks.

      Size: Height and weight should be in proportion. A height of about 18 to 19 inches at shoulders for the male and 17 to 18 inches for the female is to be considered preferable.

      Contents

       History of the American Staffordshire Terrier

      From fighting dog to farmhand to pet, follow the AmStaff’s evolution from the mastiff, bulldog and terrier breeds in its ancestry and find out what makes him a wonderful all-around dog, despite the controversy that can be associated with the breed.

       Characteristics of the American Staffordshire Terrier

      Pride, strength and loyalty are just a few of the AmStaff’s positive qualities. Add in intelligence, versatility and affection toward people, and you have a well-rounded dog that makes a wonderful addition to the right family. Learn about the AmStaff’s personality and physical traits, as well as what type of owner is ideal.

       Breed Standard for the American Staffordshire Terrier

      Learn the requirements of a well-bred American Staffordshire Terrier by studying the description of the breed set forth in the American Kennel Club standard. Both show dogs and pets must possess key characteristics as outlined in the breed standard.

       Your Puppy American Staffordshire Terrier

      Find out about how to locate a well-bred American Staffordshire Terrier puppy. Discover which questions to ask the breeder and what to expect when visiting the litter. Prepare for your puppy shopping spree. Also discussed are home safety, the first trip to the vet, socialization and solving basic puppy problems.

       Proper Care of Your American Staffordshire Terrier

      Cover the specifics of taking care of your American Staffordshire Terrier every day: feeding for the puppy, adult and senior dog; grooming, including coat care, ears, eyes, nails and bathing; and exercise needs for your dog. Also discussed are the essentials of dog identification.

       Training Your American Staffordshire Terrier

      Begin with the basics of training the puppy and adult dog. Learn the principles of house-training the AmStaff, including the use of crates and basic scent instincts. Enter Puppy Kindergarten and introduce the pup to his collar and leash and progress to the basic commands. Find out about obedience classes and other activities.

       Healthcare of Your American Staffordshire Terrier

       By Lowell Ackerman DVM, DACVD

      Become your dog’s healthcare advocate and a well-educated canine keeper. Select a skilled and able veterinarian. Discuss pet insurance, vaccinations and infectious diseases, the neuter/spay decision and a sensible, effective plan for parasite control, including fleas, ticks and worms.

       Your Senior American Staffordshire Terrier

      Know when to consider your American Staffordshire Terrier a senior and what special needs he will have. Learn to recognize the signs of aging in terms of physical and behavioral traits and what your vet can do to optimize your dog’s golden years.

       Showing Your American Staffordshire Terrier

      Step into the center ring and find out about the American Kennel Club’s system of showing pure-bred dogs. Here’s how to get started in AKC shows, how they are organized and what’s required for your dog to become a champion.

       Behavior of Your American Staffordshire Terrier

      Analyze the canine mind to understand what makes your American Staffordshire Terrier tick. Among the potential problems addressed are aggression (fear-biting, inter-canine and dominant), separation anxiety, chewing, digging and jumping up.

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