American Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier dog

Strong, confident American terrier known for its courage and people-oriented nature.

Size Weight Height Lifespan
Large 45 - 70 lbs 17 - 19 inches 12 - 16 years
(These are estimates and may vary.)

Origin: United States



Own a American Staffordshire Terrier? Share what activities they enjoy to help other dog owners.

Running Digging Swimming Exploring Playing with Toys Obedience Training Tracking Herding Fetch Hiking Socializing Tug Of War Frisbee Chewing Agility Training Cuddling Guarding Hunting

Know a American Staffordshire Terrier? Share their personality traits to help other dog owners.

Clever Protective Affectionate Stubborn Confident Fearless Friendly Docile Energetic Calm Patient Aggressive Gentle Sociable Adaptable Playful Independent Clever Agile Loyal

May be a good fit if you:

  • Want a dog that is generally responsive to consistent, positive training.
  • Are looking for a breed that generally does well with children.
  • Are a first-time dog owner looking for a relatively approachable breed.

Things to consider:

  • This breed may not do well when left alone for long periods.
  • This breed may be less suited to smaller living spaces.

The American Staffordshire Terrier traces its ancestry to the bull-and-terrier dogs developed in 19th-century Britain by crossing Bulldogs with terriers. Some of these dogs were brought to the United States, where breeders gradually developed a larger and heavier type than the Staffordshire Bull Terrier that remained in Britain. Early American dogs were used for several purposes, including farm work, guarding, hunting, and companionship, although their ancestry also includes dogs bred for fighting. As organized breeding developed, enthusiasts increasingly focused on a standardized show and companion dog. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1936 under the name Staffordshire Terrier. To distinguish it more clearly from Britain's smaller Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the name was changed to American Staffordshire Terrier in 1972. The breed shares historical roots with dogs that later became known as American Pit Bull Terriers, but the two populations developed under different registries and breeding priorities. Modern AmStaffs are substantial, athletic terriers whose physical strength reflects their ancestry, while established breed standards emphasize confidence and a stable temperament around people.

Frequently Asked Questions About American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier is not generally considered hypoallergenic. Individual allergy reactions can vary.

The American Staffordshire Terrier tends to shed relatively little, although coat care is still important.

The American Staffordshire Terrier generally has relatively manageable grooming needs.

The American Staffordshire Terrier generally has a moderate energy level.

The American Staffordshire Terrier tends to need plenty of regular physical activity and mental stimulation.

The American Staffordshire Terrier is generally highly trainable and tends to respond well to consistent, positive training.

The American Staffordshire Terrier generally tends to do well with children when properly socialized and supervised.

The American Staffordshire Terrier may be selective around other dogs, making careful socialization and introductions important.

The American Staffordshire Terrier is generally considered relatively approachable for first-time dog owners.

The American Staffordshire Terrier may be less suited to apartment living and may benefit from more space.