Staffordshire Terrier description of the breed character. American Staffordshire Terrier dog. Differences from the American Pit Bull Terrier

When talking about the Staffordshire Terrier, many people imagine a dog with a wide muzzle, a powerful chest and a kind look. Possessing an innate sense of dangerous situations and a natural instinct for protection, Amstaffs can become an excellent bodyguard for their owner. The price of such dogs depends on the pedigree of the parents, on which the victories of the Staffordshire Terrier in various competitions directly depend.

History of the breed

The first mention of the Amstaff service dog appeared back in 1209. The breed was developed not in America, as is commonly believed, but in England. American Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Stafford, Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull - these are all names of the same breed. This diversity is due to the fact that at different times the animal assigned various tasks.

Amstaffs were originally bred as fighting dogs. As gladiatorial combat began to die out, people found entertainment in fights between various animals. At first, mastiffs were used for these purposes. But since they are quite large animals, they were good targets for the horns and hooves of wild animals. In this regard, it was decided to reduce the size of the fighting dog, and dog breeders crossed a terrier and a bulldog. The result was a fast, nimble and cunning small dog.

In its modern form, the Staffordshire Terrier was registered in 1936. And in 1976 they began to call him the American Staffordshire Terrier. Since then, neither the breed itself nor its name have changed.

Amstaff appearance

A very strong, large, muscular and well-built dog looks very elegant. It is different:

The Staffordshire Terrier's coat may have solid, spotted or particolor. Black and tan, liver and white colors are undesirable for this breed. The disadvantages of her appearance include an overly long tail, pink eyelids, a light brown nose and light eyes.

Personality of the Staffordshire Terrier

Brave, active, purposeful Amstaffs have a unique intelligence and combine a number of opposing qualities. They can be both sensitive and stubborn, complacent and unapologetic, strong and affectionate.

Fearless, Staffordshire Terriers strive for their own safety. And if they see that you are being unfair to them, they may be offended.

Breed trains well, but you can’t force her to do anything. It needs to be trained only with positive motivation, otherwise the dog may become bitter.

Amstaffs will never bark and howl for no reason. They are very playful and are ready to frolic with any family member anywhere. From an early age, the dog needs to be introduced to its environment. Having completed all the necessary vaccinations, the puppy should be taken outside, walked with him in crowded places, taken on public transport, or carried in a car. This way he will quickly get used to it and will calmly react to strange situations and strangers. To avoid conflicts during walks, the puppy needs to be introduced to other dogs. It is best if they are peace-loving dogs.

It is important to teach the Amstaff the command “Give!”, while taking away a bone or toy from him. With such actions you will show that you are the leader of the pack, and you must be obeyed. Because the staffordshire terriers leaders, then in order to take the place of the leader, they should be shaken up.

Keeping an American Staffordshire Terrier

Amstaffs are indoor dogs that can only go for walks outside. Therefore, a pet must have its own place in an apartment or house where it will like to sleep. The puppy will most likely settle down on your bed. Many owners are only happy about this. But you need to remember that the dog is growing and over time it will become quite big. As a result, there is only enough space on the bed for her alone. Therefore, from day one, the American Staffordshire Terrier gotta know your place. And sleep on the bed only with the permission of the owner.

Since the dog has no undercoat and little hair, it can freeze even on warm days. The best housing option for her would be a furnished crate with soft bedding, which should be there the day the puppy crosses the threshold of your home.

Physical activity is very important for young and adult dogs. Puppies should be walked twice a day. American Staffordshire Terriers love outdoor games, so they need to be allowed to run around a little without a leash.

Some dogs of this breed love to swim, while others do not. Therefore, the latter need to be accustomed to water. To do this, go into the water and call your pet. If he follows you, then he should definitely be praised. Encouragement and praise play an important role in training a dog.

American Staffordshire Terrier: price, pedigree

Since the likelihood of future victories directly depends on the pedigree, the choice of a dog must be approached with all responsibility.

Those who want to purchase an Amstaff in order to earn gold medals at exhibitions must ask the breeder about the pedigree. It is best if it shows all the parents' awards, written reviews from judges and photographs from exhibitions. Any excuses should raise doubts. If everything is in order, then you can choose an affordable puppy that you like. And victories at exhibitions will depend entirely on the efforts of the owner.

But for those who just want to make a family friend, all of the above information will not be very interesting. However, for any Staffordshire Terrier puppy the price depends on the class:

1. Pet class are purebred dogs with various appearance deviations from breed standards. This could be a defect in the jaw, an asymmetrical structure of the skull, or a different color. All this excludes the possibility of the dog participating in the exhibition, which means that the Amstaff of this class is suitable only as a “man’s friend”. If you do not plan to go to exhibitions and earn a lot of money from breeding the breed, then such a puppy is just for you. The price for a breed of this class ranges from 5,000 to 10,000 thousand rubles.
2. The Brit class is acceptable for those who want to get a purebred dog without any developmental disabilities. Such puppies have good performance, but most likely they will not be able to take first place at the show. But in the future they will be suitable for breeding. The price for them ranges from 10,000 to 20,000 thousand rubles.
3. Show class are American Staffordshire Terriers, distinguished by their distinct breed characteristics. Fighting dogs of this class are suitable for victories at exhibitions and for breeding. But their price is appropriate. A puppy can cost more than 20,000 rubles.

When choosing a puppy of any class, you need to pay attention to a mark that must be in the groin or ear. It is done on the dog’s 45th birthday. In addition, puppies must be:

When buying a puppy, you need to pay attention to the fact that you are given a veterinary passport, since in the period from 2 to 3 months of age they are vaccinated. In addition, a puppy with a pedigree must be given a card indicating the date of birth, gender, color, and parents of the puppy. Based on this, the club where the breeder is a member will have to give you a brand number. Don’t forget to ask the breeder about the date of deworming and what he fed the little Amstaff.

New owners of the American Staffordshire Terrier need to remember that breeding purebred dogs is a troublesome, but profitable business. This fighting breed is always in price, so with proper maintenance, training and victories at exhibitions, you don’t have to worry about further profits.

The American Staffordshire Terrier breed is a fighting dog. Many people are afraid of these dog breeds, but there are people who understand that Proper training will make a dog a great friend.

Dog fighting - a terrible, cruel spectacle - gained momentum in the nineteenth century in the Old and New Worlds. The organizers of this inhuman entertainment received large profits. Gradually, such fights gained popularity in Mexico, Canada and the United States of America.

A new breed of fighting dogs appeared in the 19th century in England, where To create a brave and aggressive warrior, a terrier and a bulldog were crossed. The result was impressive.

The Stafford mixes the aggression of a bulldog with the activity of a hardy terrier.

The Stafford dog breed: during the fights in which they took part, blood was shed for the amusement of the spectators. Dogs, being powerful killing machines, stopped at nothing to They did not seem to notice serious wounds and injuries, continuing to fight courageously.

Breeders improved the breed several times, its names changed. was recorded at the end of the 19th century, and the American Staffordshire Terrier received its modern name at the end of the 20th century.

Description of the breed

FCI Standard No. 286 dated 12/01/1997"American Staffordshire Terrier" (English: American staffordshire terrier).
Group 3 "Terriers". Section 3 “Terriers of the “Bull” type”.

The FCI standard states that the preferred height at the withers is approximately eighteen to nineteen inches. (46 - 48 cm) for males and seventeen to eighteen inches (43 - 46 cm) for females.

Weights are not regulated, but the total mass of the animal must be harmoniously combined with the physique. Approximate weight: 25–30 kilograms.

A description of the Stafford breed should begin with its characteristically large and strong build. Excess weight is unacceptable. A massive head is combined with a short back, powerful chest, toned stomach and muscular shoulders. Round dark eyes with a border are widely spaced. The coat is short, thick, the surface of the coat has a smooth structure. Different colors are acceptable, spots are allowed.

Stafford dog breed: the photo clearly demonstrates these signs.






With proper care and maintenance, the American Staffordshire Terrier makes its owner happy fifteenand moreyears.

Character and abilities

Before you buy a Stafford puppy, you should thoroughly study the available literature about the breed.

Those who are interested in the American Staffordshire Terrier dog breed should know: The character of these four-legged warriors is contradictory.

Genetically, the character traits have not gone away: Stafford still remains a fighter with a complex character.

On the other hand, Staffordshire Terriers are intelligent dogs that are calm and self-controlled. These pets are attached to children. Due to their mobility, activity and great energy, Staffords can play and have fun with children for a long time. A Stafford will make an excellent defender, he will not leave his owner in trouble, and will always protect his home.

Staffords They strive to dominate only over their own kind. They look down on cats and pocket dogs, so they can easily coexist with small pets.

These are sensitive natures. Professionals do not advise punishing them, scolding them, shouting at them or behaving aggressively. The owner must remember what flows in the pet’s blood and understand that aggression generates the same response. This rule applies not only to fighting natures, but to all living things on the planet.

From birth, Staffordshire Terrier puppies have a keen sense of smell. They feel tension in the family caused by unpleasant situations. At such moments, pets are able to show the highest degree of understanding. They will not bother the owner, but will try to either show support or will not show their presence in any way.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Brave
• Stable psyche
• Suitable for various jobs, hunting, sports
• Easily trainable
• Good health

• Needs training and serious upbringing
• Not at all suitable for inactive people

Description of the breed

The Staffordshire Terrier dog breed (also called Amstaff) belongs to the group of service dogs. These are strong, stocky and very muscular dogs that do an excellent job of guarding people and territory. The Amstaff is quite stubborn and self-willed, so only experienced owners should own it. To create an emotional contact between the owner and the dog, long training and excellent discipline are required. On the street, it is recommended not to let your pet off the leash, because... Terriers have a highly developed protective instinct. They will perceive any potential ill-wisher as a threat to the life of the owner, and will immediately attack.

The character of the American Terrier is flexible and adapts well to its owner. These dogs do not have an innate hostility towards strangers, but they are always on the alert. A dog will show its best qualities when guarding a house with a garden plot, where it can run freely. But if you decide to have an Amstaff in your apartment, it’s okay. Provided you take long daily walks and skillful upbringing, your pet will not cause you much trouble. Living together with other pets is only possible if the dog has become accustomed to them since childhood. Having a kitten with an adult amstaff is not a good idea.

Staffordshire Terrier breed standard

The first official description of the Staffordshire Terrier breed was adopted in America in 1936. Its creator is W. Brandon, who later organized the American Staffordshire Terrier Club of the USA. His passion for this dog breed, painstaking work to identify the main characteristics of the breed and communication with like-minded people caused a resonance in the world of dog handlers. Subsequently, the standard did not change at all, and by 1972 the Fédération Cynologique Internationale accepted it as the official international standard for the breed. Height is about 45-48 cm at the withers for males and approximately 44-46 for females. There is no weight limit, but must be proportional to the dog's build.

General Appearance: Should give the impression of being a very strong, large dog for its height, with a robust build. Lethargy or excessive weight are not acceptable. Amstaff is a very lively and active dog with an incredibly courageous character.

The head is small, wide, with prominent muscles. The transition from forehead to muzzle is clearly pronounced. Ears may or may not be cropped. If the ears are not cropped, they should stand up. The eyes are small, dark in color, and deep set. The jaws are very strong. The nose is pigmented black.

The neck is massive, muscular, wide.

The limbs are strong, the front legs are widely spaced, which ensures stability. Medium sized paws. The gait is confident and springy.

1. The color of the Amstaff is not regulated, but black and tan or with a reddish tint is undesirable.

Character and characteristics of the Staffordshire Terrier

The character of an Amstaff is directly related to its pedigree. Initially, the dog breed was bred to participate in battles and bait wild animals. Strength, speed and agility are the main characteristics of the American Terrier. But, despite its complex history, the Amstaff is not a monster at all. He is very devoted to his owner and tries to please him in everything. To prevent a dog from perceiving others as a threat to a loved one, it is important to educate it from childhood. Terriers are very brave animals, ready to do anything for their family. All amstaffs cope well not only with the role of companion and protector, but also with official work. They are predisposed to tracking and search and rescue work, hunting (tracking prey), agility training and many other types of training.

Like many other dogs, Staffords are not suited to lying on the couch. This is an active dog that will happily support you in summer jogging, playing sports or swimming. Such a pet will be a full member of the family, and with the proper investment of effort and time in its education, it will pleasantly surprise you. Most often, having got one dog, owners no longer want to look at other pets, completely falling in love with the Amstaff.

Unfortunately, the reputation of this breed has been tarnished by unfavorable reviews in the media. Taking dog attacks as an example of the unreliability of the breed, people do not understand the most important thing - the Amstaff attacks only when it sees a direct threat to the owner. An ill-mannered dog that perceives everyone around them as a danger can do this. But it is not the dogs who are to blame for this, but the people who did not bother to put enough effort and time into training Staffordshire Terriers. The second danger is unscrupulous breeders who cross dogs that are far from the best in terms of genetics (often different breeds), and such puppies often turn out to be unbalanced. This affects not only the owners of such pets, but also the reputation of the breed as a whole.

Pedigree Staffordshire Terriers are devoid of unmotivated aggression at the genetic level. Breeders carefully select the most stable individuals, whose offspring will take the best qualities of their parents. The brave staff is completely devoted to the owner, whose word is law for him. A well-mannered terrier is the best companion you can imagine. His level of intelligence allows him to respond to the slightest demands of his owner.

Amstaff is distinguished by good health and is easy to care for. Genetics awarded him with strong immunity and excellent tolerance to different weather. It is recommended to bathe your pet no more than twice a year. It is important that the dog is in a warm, draft-free place. The pet's short coat does not require combing and practically does not shed. Proper feeding, sufficient exercise, education and love will allow the terrier to live a long and happy life. American Terriers live 10-12 years.

If your dog gets dirty after a walk, wipe it with a terry towel. This simple procedure will help keep your pet clean and at the same time remove dead hair. Once a year, be sure to visit a veterinarian for vaccination. Terriers are not predisposed to specific diseases.

The most important thing in caring for such a dog is to devote a lot of time to it. Walks, games, training, running, swimming - the staff will suit any physical activity. This is a real find for active people.

Feeding the Staffordshire Terrier

Feeding an Amstaff is no different from feeding other purebred dogs. His diet can consist of both dry dry food and natural food. Dry food is more convenient to use, it is stored for a long time and does not require pre-treatment. However, in order to keep your dog healthy, it is important to buy only high-quality industrial food of premium class and higher. If expensive food is not a suitable diet from the owner’s point of view, it is preferable to feed the pet natural food than to buy dubious cheap brands. Beef, poultry, lamb (no more than 2 times a week), and fish are perfect for this. Be sure to add vegetables and cereals (rice, buckwheat, oatmeal). Cottage cheese, kefir and other fermented milk products have a good effect on digestion.

Staffordshire Terrier puppies

Amstaff breeds from 6 to 10 puppies. If you decide to get a four-legged friend, be sure to ask the breeders about its pedigree. It is also advisable to ask about the diet, vaccinations given, the character and condition of the parents and, if any, brothers and sisters from other litters. Dedicated breeders will be happy to tell you a lot of important and interesting things. Particular attention should be paid to the survey if you plan to participate in exhibitions and breed work.

American Terrier puppies are very playful. To direct their energy in the right direction, one should engage in systematic education.

Important tips for keeping a puppy:

From the first day of arrival in the house, the puppy should know what is allowed and what is not. All people in the house must follow this rule and not allow the dog to do things that are not allowed. Otherwise, having become disillusioned with one owner, the dog will seek loyalty from another.

Find a quiet place where your puppy can sleep comfortably.

After a walk, wipe your pet with a towel to remove dust and dirt. Be sure to inspect your dog's ears, paws, and belly.

In the summer, you can bathe puppies, accustoming them to water procedures.

Toys are a must-have purchase for every dog. During the period of changing baby teeth, the puppy will chew everything it comes across. To avoid damage to furniture, wires and the pet itself, buy different toys for dogs.

Physical activity must be strictly dosed. You cannot overload the animal, otherwise there is a risk of improper development of bones and joints.

When practicing commands, do not shake the puppy by the scruff of the neck and do not hit him under any circumstances. To scold, it is enough to strictly say a prohibiting command.

Feed only after a walk - running on a full stomach can cause a saggy belly. In addition, an overfed puppy will quickly get tired and go to bed.

Bowls must be placed on a stand, the height of which should increase according to the height of the pet.

1. The daily diet should contain at least 30% protein foods. Protein is the main building material for a growing animal’s body.

Training a Staffordshire Terrier

The main goal of training a Staffordshire Terrier is to make the dog obedient, to develop certain skills necessary for the owner for the socialization and further work of the pet. Amstaff is well trained and has the necessary skills.

These dogs have a predisposition to many types of work, ranging from hunting to sports and agility. However, the American Terrier is a rather stubborn dog, so it needs to devote a lot of time and carefully reinforce the material covered. Education will make the dog’s life safe, and the owner will receive maximum pleasure from such communication.

Basic commands that need to be taught to your pet:

"Sit". Say the command and show the puppy a piece of treat. When the pet becomes interested, raise the food higher. The puppy will stretch and sit on the floor. Say the command again and give the reward.

"To me". Say the command when the dog is in sight and lure it with food. After your pet runs up, teach him the “sit” command.

"Lie". It is performed in the same way as sitting with a difference in position.

"Near". It is better to practice at the end of the walk, when the dog is a little tired.

Apportation is performed during the game.

1. The “place” command is best remembered before bedtime, when the puppy falls asleep. Take him to the place and say the command. You can secure the team outside, after taking the bedding with you.

History of the breed

The history of the Stafford begins in England, where his ancestor, the English Bulldog, grew up. The bulldog's excellent fighting qualities were carefully selected and strengthened. Bulldogs were first used as rat arena fighters. After the invention of dog fighting, a more dexterous and agile dog became necessary, combining the tenacity of a bulldog and the agility of a terrier. The crossing of these two breeds revealed the Pit Bull Terrier breed to the world. After the ban on dog fighting, pit bulls remained the favorite dogs of many citizens, and the breed did not disappear. The fashion for pit bull terriers lasted quite a long time. Among wealthy citizens and nobility it was prestigious to keep such a famous dog at home.

There is an opinion that fighting dogs are characterized by an extreme degree of aggressiveness and hot temper. But in most cases this is just a myth that has nothing to do with reality. Proof of this is the Staffordshire Terrier dog breed. Staff, as the breed is also called, was developed by crossing a terrier and a bulldog. As a result, the breeders bred the ideal dog for the most dangerous sport - dog fighting.

As with any breed, a dog’s future aggressiveness is determined by its upbringing. Therefore, those who do not plan to give their pet to sports will be able to get a faithful friend and comrade in the person of this strong dog.

Since the Staffordshire Terrier belongs to fighting dog breeds, his exterior is appropriate. The animal's body is compact and strong. The muscles are clearly expressed and distinctly dried. The dog combines the best fighting qualities, as well as a strong physique, which is demonstrated by the Staffordshire Terrier breed. The description of the standard provides:

Staffordshire Terrier color can be either spotted or plain.

The standard does not allow liver shade, white color, or black and tan. Also considered “defective” are pink eyelids, too long a tail, light eyes and a light brown nose.

Staff is a strong and muscular dog with a well-built physique. The photo shows that the expression in the eyes is often kind, despite the aggressive purpose of the breed.

The physique shows a fighting dog, which is the Staffordshire Terrier. The price for a puppy largely depends not only on the exterior, but also on the “purpose” of the dog: it will be a sporting animal or a pet.

Staff character

In most cases, the character of the Staffordshire Terrier, like other breeds, depends on upbringing. However, there are a number of traits that will be inherent in this dog in any case.

Staff is a mood dog that can change at lightning speed. The dog can instantly move from a state of rest to combat readiness, as well as from a playful mood to alertness. This must be taken into account in everyday communication with your pet.

Staff has an almost unshakable balance. He calmly tolerates playing with children, even if the kids do not treat him very kindly. A properly raised dog will never offend a small child.

In order for a staff to get angry, it is necessary to almost verbally force him to do so. This very patient animal.

Many people try to get a guard dog from a fighting breed. The Staffordshire Terrier is perfect for this. This dog's character is fearless. By its nature, this animal practically does not feel pain, which allows it to rush at the offender, even if he is larger than the staff.

Protecting the territory is inherent in this dog's instincts. Even in his sleep, this dog is on alert, listening to what is happening. However, this breed is reserved. The owner will not hear any causeless barking or howling from this dog.

Another positive quality of the Staffordshire Terrier is devotion to the owner. The staff sees its purpose in serving people and tries in every possible way to please the owner.

In order for a fighting dog not to turn into an aggressor, upbringing should be encouraging. Leadership is also important, which must be in the hands of the owner. Education plays a key role in shaping a dog's character. Therefore, an experienced person should do the training.

One of the key tasks of education is training restraint. It is this quality that will prevent the dog from starting fights with other animals on the street.

The Staffordshire Terrier tries in every possible way to please its owner, so performing tricks is not difficult for him.

Raising a Staffordshire Terrier

As already mentioned, raising a Staffordshire Terrier plays a key role in shaping the character of the animal. Training this breed- a responsible matter.

Staff dogs have strong leadership qualities, so from the very beginning of training, the owner needs to take an authoritative position. Only by letting the puppy understand who is in charge in the “master-dog” union can one achieve absolute obedience from the pet. The owner will also require remarkable endurance, since this breed is very persistent and will test the owner’s decision more than once.

Socialization of a puppy should occur from the very first days of meeting its new owners. It is necessary to give your pet the opportunity to explore the world around him and become familiar with various situations. Walks should occur as often as possible. It is best if the puppy regularly finds himself in a crowd.

Encounters with other animals at a young age it is necessary to limit. Introducing a puppy to foreign dogs should begin at the age of six months. If the dog is wary or scared, the owner needs to be patient. Aggressively encouraging a frightened puppy to act can lead to the animal growing up to be hot-tempered and inappropriate.

Before the age of one and a half years, special attention must be paid to the dog’s understanding of human speech. The dog must learn to distinguish not only commands, but also the intonation of the owner’s voice. The owner must express demands in a firm, confident voice. A person's word must be unshakable. The puppy is playful by nature and will try to convince its owner, thus testing the team's strength. If during this period the owner gives in, the dog will sense the absence of a leader and try to occupy a free niche.

There is also a phenomenon called “rebellion” in the Staffordshire Terrier’s temperament. Usually staff starts to rebel during puberty. Disobedience manifests itself in attempts to ignore the strongest member of the family, as well as the one who puts the most pressure on the dog. The dog is trying to take over the lead, and this is normal. Before this period, it is extremely important that the owner's word has the greatest weight.

Physical influence in raising a Staffordshire Terrier is unacceptable. Not only is it useless, but it can also lead to the opposite result. The young animal will understand that conflict situations with humans must be resolved through the manifestation of force. It’s also not worth shouting at the “intruder.” If the dog is rebelling, the most that can be done is to shake the puppy thoroughly. But the best method is still a clear command, no matter how many times it needs to be repeated. Owner reviews are unanimous: patience and only patience.

Another good method to curb a young dog is direct look into the eyes. It’s worth watching until submission appears in the dog’s gaze.

Staff training

The psychology of dogs is complex and requires a lot of attention. However, the owner, spending enough time every day training, eventually begins to notice the slightest changes in the pet’s mood. The change in mood becomes noticeable in the gaze and characteristic movements. An attentive owner always knows what the dog is going to do in a few seconds.

Staffordshire Terrier - dog that respects hierarchy. For him, his family is his pack. And it depends only on the owner what place the dog will take in this pack. A common mistake that owners make is to over-encourage the animal when following commands correctly. By allowing the dog to lie on the sofa as a reward, the owner thereby “loses ground” in the dog’s eyes. Encouragement should not go beyond what is reasonable, and training should always be based on subordination.

Training a Staffordshire Terrier is a responsible task, so many owners prefer to turn to dog handlers for help. However, it is worth understanding that the specialist’s work is aimed largely at teaching the owner how to interact with the animal. Errors during the course are the mistakes of the owner, not the dog, as evidenced by numerous reviews about the breed.

There are several types of training on the site:

• General course. Involves learning basic commands: “Fu,” “Sit,” “Pick.” The dog learns to understand the owner, and the owner, in turn, correctly sets the tone for training.
• Manageable city dog. Allows you to master the basics of behavior in public places, as well as the commands and gestures of the owner.
• Protective guard service. More complex course of study. The nature of the staff means constant interaction with people, so this course is not always suitable for this breed.
• Bodyguard. The dog is trained as a personal guard. The course is suitable for owners of sporting dogs, however, it is not suitable for ordinary pets. Having turned the dog into a bodyguard, owners are faced with the pet’s aggression towards random passers-by, which can provoke problems.

The price for the course will depend on the focus of the lessons and the reputation of the dog handler.

It is best to feed your Staffordshire Terrier natural food. The basis of the diet should be lean meat. It is best if it is beef and lamb. It is useful to add vegetables and cereals in small quantities. The dog should also have constant access to fresh water.

Key points in preparing a staff diet:

• Naturalness of components;
• Caloric intake;
• Control the amount of food, avoid overfeeding;
• Fermented milk products for calcium saturation;
• Compliance with diet.

It is better not to feed staff with specialized food.

Staffordshire Terrier

“Staff is only a year old, but he has already clearly demonstrated his temperament. Raising a breed requires a lot of time, however, it is worth it.”

“If you raise a puppy correctly, in the future you will get an excellent friend and a faithful guard. Don't be too forceful when training. This dog is smart and understands a person at a glance.”

Staff is a dog that appeared in our country relatively recently. Despite its rather dangerous and bloodthirsty reputation, the American Staffordshire Terrier immediately gained great popularity among both professional breeders and ordinary dog ​​lovers. The reason for such a wide distribution of animals lies far from their fighting nature. Contrary to popular misconceptions, the breed is perfect for home keeping and guarding. An intelligent, sensitive, kind four-legged pet is ideal for families with children.

Staff is a dog that appeared in our country relatively recently.

The long history of Staffordshire Terriers dates back to distant England, where the ancestors of this breed, the English Bulldogs, grew up. The ancestors of the Staffs were widely valued for their fighting qualities. They were originally used as rat arena fighters. Later, when dog fights appeared, their organizers needed a more agile dog. And as a result of crossing bulldogs and terriers, pit bull terriers arose, combining the tenacity of the former and the agility of the latter. When dog fighting was banned, the new breed did not disappear: its brave representatives were very fond of the townspeople. The fashion for pit bull terriers lasted for a long time. Among wealthy and noble people it was considered prestigious to have such a famous pet at home.

But in America, unlike Great Britain, they were in no hurry to say goodbye to dog fighting. To create an even more powerful animal, pit bulls were crossed with larger breeds of dogs. This is how the Staffordshire Terrier appeared. Already in the 18th century, dog breeders began to consider the animal as a brave, courageous and impartial guard, with optimal size, proper intelligence and strength. And at the beginning of the 20th century, when fighting games began to be gradually abandoned, Staffas began to be used as farm dogs. Today, representatives of this breed are excellent protectors and reliable friends for all family members.

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Dog character

Staff is a smart and good-natured dog. Despite his rather intimidating appearance, sudden outbursts of aggression are completely atypical for him. The dog simply adores small children. She is optimally suited for large families and will become a loyal, devoted and reliable friend. However, only proper upbringing and care will help the dog show its best qualities.

The long history of Staffordshire Terriers dates back to distant England, where the ancestors of this breed, the English Bulldogs, grew up.

There are several characteristic breed traits that owners should be aware of.

1. Staffs are very obedient and easy to train. The dog easily remembers what pranks are acceptable in the house, and what is strictly prohibited. Training an animal is absolutely easy. Even a child over 10 years old can easily cope with this task, but only under the close supervision of adults. Even small puppies quickly get used to obedience. For this quality they are highly valued and are often recruited to work in search and rescue services. It is representatives of this breed that become the best guides and rescuers. These dogs earned universal love during the rescue operation in Nord-Ost. With their help, specialists inspected objects before the assault began.
2. Activity is another key quality of pets. They simply love having fun and cannot imagine their life without running, long walks and jumping. The more time the owner is willing to devote to the dog and the more games he offers it, the better. Staffords are absolutely not suitable for homebodies. If the dog does not expend his seething energy on a walk, he will definitely splash it out at home, causing serious damage. Therefore, it is extremely important to find time for long walks and games.
3. Many people believe that the Staffordshire Terrier has an aggressive nature and is not averse to feasting on strangers. In fact, this is completely not true: the breed is very social, dogs love when their owners greet guests and adore children. Pets condescendingly tolerate all the tricks and pranks of younger family members, play with them with pleasure and even act as nannies. Staffs are no less friendly towards other four-legged animals they meet on a walk.

Staff is a smart and good-natured dog

Experienced dog breeders unanimously claim that the breed itself is incredibly loyal, friendly, calm and peaceful. This dog poses no threat. But the owner who trains and gives commands to the pet is dangerous for those around her. The staff obeys the owner unquestioningly and, without hesitation, carries out any order.

The fighting nature of Staffordshire Terriers manifests itself exclusively in battle. The dog is extremely aggressive towards the enemy; it is simply impossible to control him here. Therefore, all individuals that at least once showed aggression and hatred towards humans were immediately removed from breeding. This was done not only for safety, but also so that during dog fights opponents could be pulled apart with bare hands without fear of getting hurt.

Features of pet care

Like any pet, adult Staf dogs and puppies require proper care. However, unlike many breeds, this one is absolutely unpretentious. It is enough to follow a few simple rules.

1. Staffordshire Terriers do not need frequent bathing. Water procedures can be carried out at least 1-2 times a year. And to get rid of small hairs and particles of dead skin, it is enough to periodically wipe the dog’s fur with a damp towel.
2. The Staff's coat must be brushed regularly. It is not recommended to use Furminator because the hair is too short for it.
3. Staffies need regular walking and active pastime. It is important to spend at least 1.5-2 hours a day outside with them. It is advisable to play with your pet more often, throwing him a stick or a ball. A four-legged friend will be an excellent companion for athletes; they are great at agility. The dog will not leave its owner even if he decides to ride a bicycle. However, do not forget that in crowded places you need to put a harness on the animal.
4. Both dry food and natural food are suitable for feeding Staffies. If you choose the first option, don't skimp on food. Cheap food can cause serious harm to your pet's health, so you should choose elite varieties. They will provide your pet with all the necessary vitamins and minerals. If natural food is chosen for feeding, the diet must include meat, offal, cereals, sea fish, eggs, and vegetables. The latter are best given boiled or stewed, so they are better absorbed.

From early childhood, the animal should be taught to be clean. It must sleep on its own bedding, which should be washed regularly. The dog should get used to relieving itself only outside.

Sociable, balanced and friendly, the Staffordshire Terrier will make a wonderful pet. However, it should be remembered that he needs a leading, self-confident owner. The owner must become a mentor and leader. If you are confident that you can cope with this role, feel free to go and choose a puppy.

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Raising puppies

Staffordshire Terriers are mothers of many children. At one time, an Amstaff gives birth to 6 to 10 puppies. If you decide to get a four-legged pet of this breed, be sure to ask the breeder about its pedigree. You should also obtain information about the habits and feeding schedule, vaccinations, the character of the animal itself and its parents. If your pet has brothers and sisters from other litters, you should also ask about their habits. Particular attention should be paid to all this if you are going to take part in breed work and dog shows in the future.

Stafford puppies are incredibly active, playful and inquisitive. In order for their energy to go in the right direction, raising pets must be regular and consistent.

1. Typically, moving to a new home occurs in Staffordshire Terriers at 2 months. From the first day of life with its new owners, the dog must understand what can be done and what is strictly prohibited. All people living in the apartment must strictly follow the established rules. Otherwise, the animal will quickly become disillusioned with one owner and will seek loyalty from another.
2. Staffies usually begin to change their baby teeth at 4 months. During this period, they scratch their jaws on everything that gets in their way, and they can chew off the owner’s important things. To prevent this from happening, you need to purchase special toys.
3. Staff puppies must have their own place where they can rest and sleep peacefully. The sleeping area can be arranged in the hallway or the owner's room. It is important not to allow the animal to go to a person’s bed; then it will be extremely difficult to wean him from this habit.
4. Despite the fact that the little dog is incredibly active, physical activity at a young age should be strictly dosed. Overwork can negatively affect your pet's health and lead to improper development of joints and skeletal bones.
5. Only the owner should raise the animal. Outsiders are strictly prohibited from interfering in this process.
6. After a walk, you need to wash the animal’s paws and carefully examine them for injuries and cuts.
7. You can raise a baby only in commands, without shouting or assault. To scold an animal for disobedience, it is quite enough to speak to it in a stern voice.
8. You can feed your little Staffordshire only after a walk. Active games and running on a full stomach can cause digestive problems and cause a sagging tummy. In addition, a well-fed puppy will get tired much faster and want to sleep.
9. Bowls for food and drink must be on stands. Their height must be increased as the pet matures and grows.
10. The puppy's daily diet should contain at least 30% protein food. Protein is the most important building material, which is especially necessary for a growing body.

In order for your little pet to always be healthy and cheerful, it is necessary not only to properly care for him, but also to get vaccinations in a timely manner. As a rule, the first vaccine is given to an animal at two months. Until this age, he is protected from diseases by immunity transmitted from his mother. 2 weeks before vaccination it is necessary to carry out deworming. A veterinarian will develop a detailed vaccination schedule. At about four months, the animal's teeth begin to change. If any vaccination falls during this time, it is better to reschedule it to avoid complications.

Puppy training (video)

Characteristic diseases of the breed

Like any dog ​​breed, Staffies have several characteristic diseases. Most often found in animals:

• colitis;
• various skin diseases;
• gastrointestinal disorders;
• eye diseases, in particular cataracts;
• ligament ruptures and arthrosis;
• hip dysplasia.

Puppies are vaccinated against the most dangerous diseases, such as distemper, hepatitis, rabies and parainfluenza at an early age. And in order to avoid diseases, the likelihood of which is especially high in representatives of the breed, it is recommended to regularly visit the veterinarian for the purpose of prevention. Remember that any disease is easier to prevent than to cure.

By deciding to get a Staffordshire Terrier, you will find a reliable friend, a devoted protector and a loyal companion. The animal will become a full-fledged member of the family. The main thing is to give your pet as much attention and care as possible. Then he will repay you with sincere love and devotion. If you realize that you have little time to raise your pet, it is better to give preference to representatives of another breed.

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