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The American Staffordshire Terrier is not a new breed. Although it gained American Kennel Club registration and recognition in 1936, it has been developed since the early 1800's as a result of crosses between the bulldogs and game terriers. One of the early and very famous AKC registered Staffs was Pete the Pup, (real name Lucenay's Peter), dog star of the autentic Our Gang comedies of the 1930's.

The early ancestors of this breed came from England but the development of the American Staffordshire Terrier is the story of a truly American breed. This type of dog was instrumental in the success of farmers and settlers who developed this country. They were used for general farm work, hunting wild pigs, bears, and other large game, guarding the homestead, and general companionship. American breeders increased its weight and gave it a more powerful head. The AmStaff has been bred as a pet, family dog, guardian, show dog and for obedience and agility competition.

Although ancestors of the American Staffordshire were fighting dogs, the selective breeding since the 1930's has been away from the fighting heritage. The American Staffordshire Terrier of today is a companion and show dog, rather than a gladiator. Although more rarely used on the farm now, the talents that made him a good all-purpose dog are still to be found in the breed.

A common question regarding the American Staffordshire Terrier is, "How is this breed different from the American Pit Bull Terrier?". After dog fighting was banned in the United States in 1900, two strains of these dogs were developed, a show strain and a fighting dog strain. The show strain was labeled the American Staffordshire, while the fighting dog strain was labeled the American Pit Bull Terrier. The two are now being recognized as separate breeds. Today the American Pit Bull Terrier is being bred with the same gentle qualities as the American Staffordshire Terrier. They both make great pets with the right kind of owner.

In the eyes of the United Kennel Club, they are the same breeds, but many disagree. Some AKC-registered American Staffordshire Terriers are dual-registered as American Pit Bull Terriers with the UKC; however, this draws criticism from many who point out that the bloodlines have been separate for too long for these to be considered the same breed. The AKC, on the other hand, does not allow a UKC-registered American Pit Bull Terrier to be registered as an American Staffordshire Terrier.

The American Staffordshire Terrier should give the impression of great strength for his size, a well put-together dog, muscular, but agile and graceful, keenly alive to their surroundings. They have a very high tolerance for pain. It is very important to socialize these dogs when they are young. When properly trained and socialized, this dog makes an excellent family companion. This breed is not for the passive owner. They required a good amount of exercise and attention. They are happy, outgoing and confident dogs. Gentle and loving towards people, good natured, amusing, extremely loyal, affectionate and extraordinarily devoted. Almost always obedient, they want nothing more than to please their master. They are an extremely intelligent dog that is full of life. They are tough, courageous, tenacious and stubborn. They are a persistent fighter if provoked. Highly protective of their owners and will fight an enemy to the death if the enemy traps them in a corner and threatens their loved ones. Staffords, particularly females, can make excellent watchdogs. When a Stafford shows its teeth in a snarl, it can be frightening. They look tough and can be a positive deterrent to thieves, but because of their normal fondness for people, most Staffords are temperamentally ill-suited for guard or attack-dog training. They can be the biggest people lovers in the world! They are extremely "oral" youngsters and need a safe alternative to furniture, toys and clothing for their busy jaws. Staffords love to play tug-of-war and to roughhouse, but YOU must set the rules and YOU must be the boss. This is not a difficult task if you begin working with your Stafford when he is a puppy. Staffordshire Terrier desire, more than anything else, to be with their people. Most adore a car ride, going on hikes and walks, enjoying a romp up the beach, and cozying up to (or on) you when you settle down for an evening of TV or reading. Whatever the activity, from the time it awakens in the morning until the quiet of night, a Stafford lives life to the fullest. The only thing that will break this dog's spirit is lack of his owner's loving attention.

Staffordshire Terriers are a "natural" dog and generally robust. The short coat of this breed requires little grooming other than an occasional brushing and a bath. The downside of this drip dry coat is that Staffords are susceptible to fleas and ticks. The general remedies to discourage fleas and ticks are recommended, as well as a thorough going-over with a flea comb during the worse months of summer. Care of nails, ears, teeth and anal glands are the same as they would be for any other breed (beginning when young and attention on a regular basis). The Stafford is not a dog that tolerates weather extremes easily. Because of their short coat, they prefer plenty of shade and water on sweltering summer days (a child's wading pool has been a popular choice in the past; supervised of course). Its Bulldog ancestry and brachycephalic (short-headed or broad-headed) respiratory system can contribute to overheating. Watch carefully to be sure that your Stafford doesn't become overheated during puternice play in the summer; if he appears to be wheezing or gasping for air, find the nearest source of cold water and soak him to lower his body temperature. Staffordshire Terriers can boast a number of obedience degrees and are quick studies, provided the trainer utilizes a positive, creative approach. Staffords are smart with a capital S. Young puppies enrolled in Kindergarten Puppy Training classes can begin to learn good habits and mix with other puppies. In addition to AKC obedience competition, Staffords have been successful Therapy Dogs, participated in Agility Competitions and even "gone to ground" with other terriers! Staffords are exuberant, impulsive, sometimes bull-headed ... and surprisingly sensitive. A trainer must learn to be persistent, patient, and firm. Rome wasn't built in a day and a great deal of ground may be lost in trying to adhere to the sort of inflexible techniques and rigid timeframe advocated by some training books. Basic obedience training (at the very least) is a must for any Bull and Terrier. It helps to maintain control in unexpected situations. Because of their impulsive natures, the other cardinal rule of Bull and Terrier ownership is "always think ahead." An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

Although relatively problem-free, Staffordshire Terriers sometimes exhibit hereditary problems and susceptibilies that can range in degree of seriousness from mild to life-threatening: Brachycephaly Any brachycephalic (short- or broad-headed breed such as the Bulldog) may be prone to breathing problems because of foreshortening of the nasal passage. Cleft palate is sometimes found in puppies and such puppies are usually humanely destroyed; they cannot draw milk properly and if not abandoned by their dam, may starve. Some dogs are born with an elongated soft palate. If not extreme, it may not be noticeable or bothersome to the dog. However, extreme cases identifiable by respiratory distress and infection, stentorian breathing and difficulty in eating can be corrected surgically. This surgical procedure renders a dog ineligible to be shown in AKC-sanctioned conformation classes. Congenital Epilepsy Congenital epilepsy occurs at 3 to 5 years, and can result from trauma. Although little understood, once diagnosed, it can be controlled with medication. Juvenile Cataracts Although cataracts are considered an affliction of older dogs, some Stafford pups develop them. The condition should be diagnosed by an eye specialist.

In England, the Stafford is known by the affectionate nickname, "The Children's Nursemaid" or "The Nanny Dog." Their tolerance of, and affection for, children is well known. That doesn't mean, however, that it's a wise idea to put the puppy and child together without supervision. Children should learn to respect the dog and neither should indulge in play that is too rough. Some Staffords - even the males - have a "mothering instinct" and will stick right by the little ones, whether they are puppies or kids. A Stafford, "tough" and not as quick to react to pain or discomfort, is likely to make allowance for the attentions of toddler, finding a refuge only when things become too overwhelming. Can I keep a Staffordshire Bull Terrier in an Apartment? How much exercise will she require? Staffords can make a home with you anywhere; they are happy as long as they are with you. They are an athletic dog, however, and need more exercise than most dogs. Bursting with energy, they need vigorous exercise every day! A long, brisk walk on leash (or harness - a useful alternative for some) will give you both a workout. Staffords love the heady freedom of being allowed offlead for a run, hike or romp and it's delightful to watch them. Of course, it's a good idea to make sure that they'll come back when you call them, first. Are Staffords a noisy breed?_Staffords, in general, are not noisy dogs. They may bark or "talk" while playing, or to alert you of a visitor. However, they are "quick studies" and if you have another dog in residence and THAT dog is a barker, your Stafford will probably pick it up. Can I keep a Staffordshire Terrier with another dog or with a cat? Staffords, like members of any other breed, are individuals. While some may live peacefully with other animals, some will not. Puppies brought up with cats and other dogs generally do well. If bringing an older Staffordshire Terrier into your home, first introduce the dogs away from the house in a neutral area. It should be easier to bring a Stafford into your home than bringing a strange dog into the home of a Stafford. Encounters should be supervised and the dogs observed to determine how a heirarchy develops. Should I consider a male or a female? Both will offer much love and affection. Females tend to be better watchdogs; males tend to be larger. No matter which sex you select, spay or neuter if you have decided not to breed or exhibit your Stafford. What sorts of toys are safe to give my Stafford?_There are no such things as "indestructible dog toys" for Bull and Terrier breeds. But some have tried these: bowling balls or big Nylabones. Anything else might be chewed up, swallowed or destroyed in short order.

Beriadanwen · Trimis: 16/12/2009 16:34 Titlul subiectului:

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