The American Staffordshire Terrier (or Am Staff) shares much of her history with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Pit Bull Terrier, which were developed during the late 18th century. The ancestors of both the Am Staff and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier were used in bull- and bear-baiting. Later, when those bloodsports were outlawed, they were used as the main attraction in dog-fighting rings.
The American Staffordshire Terrier was accepted as a recognized breed by the American Kennel Club in 1936. The name change from Staffordshire Bull to American Staffordshire Terrier was meant to reflect the heavier American type of dog.
Am Staffs are a strong, loyal, courageous breed. H they are generally friendly, though they can be fiercely loyal to their families, defending them at any cost. Their strength and athleticism allow them to excel at agility competitions, obedience trials and tracking. Their will, muscle power and intelligence combine to provide an excellent opportunity for strong leaders to take charge in a gentle manner.
Although strong and athletic, American Staffordshire Terriers are still prone to hereditary and congenital conditions that may adversely affect their health – as well as your family budget. Some of the conditions and illnesses Am Staffs are prone to include joint conditions such as luxating patellas and elbow and hip dysplasia; neurological diseases such as cerebellar abiotrophy; thyroid conditions such as hypothyroidism; and eye conditions such as distichiasis.
Thankfully, Petplan pet insurance covers all hereditary and chronic conditions as standard. Which means if your Am Staff inherits anything more than a strong loyalty to his two-legged family members, you’re protected.