Original Name : American Staffordshire Terrier
Type : Molossoid
Other Names : Am Staff, Staff, American Staff
Male size : 18-19 inches
Female size : 17-18 inches
Degree of grooming :
Countries of origin : United States of America
This especially successful cross between a terrier and a bulldog is characterized by energy and tranquil strength. It’s why this polarizing dog – angel or demon depending on how you look at it – has become the most famous and the most widespread North American dog in the world today.
Head
Medium length, deep throughout.
Body
Fairly short back, with slight slope from the withers to the croup, with gentle short slope to the base of the tail.
Coat
All colors are acceptable, solid, particolor or patched, but more than 80% white, black and tan, and liver are not encouraged.
Ears
Preferably not cropped, short, rose or half-pricked.
Tail
Short in proportion to the size of the dog.
Hair
Short, close, stiff to the touch, and glossy.
The American Staffordshire Terrier is among the youngest of the popular breeds. The American Kennel Club only officially accepted the breed in 1936. For centuries it was unknown outside of the USA, Canada and Mexico, but when it arrived in Europe it was a huge success. Unfortunately, supply followed demand and atypical specimens started to appear. It led to a ban in the U.K. and extensive, expensive restrictions in France. The Am Staff has also been banned in Miami-Dade County, Fl.
Like many Americans, the Am Staff has ancestors across the pond in Britain. They really made their name in World War II, receiving more honors and decorations than any other dog.