Breeds
American Staffordshire Terrier: Temperament, Size & Care
An American Staffordshire Terrier, or AmStaff, is a confident, affectionate, people-focused dog that bonds strongly with its family. AmStaffs are easy to groom and keen to please, but they are strong, can be reactive with other dogs and need consistent, positive training and structure. Here is what VCA Animal Hospitals and the AKC say about the breed's size, health and care.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 14, 20264 min read3 sources
American Staffordshire Terrier temperament and personality
VCA describes the AmStaff as confident, affectionate and people-focused, bonding strongly with its family. It notes some may be reactive toward other dogs and that without structure they may become pushy.
The AmStaff is a distinct AKC-recognized breed, though it is often grouped with other pit bull-type dogs. Most are clownish, loving companions with their own people. Their strength and possible dog reactivity mean they need thoughtful handling in public.
How big do American Staffordshire Terriers get?
VCA gives a height of 17 to 19 inches and a weight of 40 to 70 pounds, and the AKC's breed weight chart lists the same 40 to 70 pounds. Neither source sets separate ranges by sex.
AmStaffs are stocky and heavily muscled for their height. Keep them lean to protect the hips and knees, which VCA notes are prone to joint disease, and ask your vet to check body condition regularly.
AmStaff lifespan and common health issues
VCA gives a lifespan of 12 to 16 years and lists hip dysplasia, cranial cruciate ligament disease, skin allergies, mast cell tumors, progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts, noting a tendency to joint disease in the hips and knees.
Ask a breeder for hip and eye results on both parents and any DNA tests the national breed club recommends. Ask your vet which lumps to have checked. A sudden hind-leg limp, a new or changing skin lump, or constant scratching should be seen promptly.
Exercise needs
VCA rates energy as moderate and says AmStaffs need daily exercise such as walks, play and structured activities to stay physically and mentally balanced. An hour or so a day suits most adults.
Tug, fetch, flirt-pole games, weight pull and agility suit the breed. Avoid off-leash dog parks if your dog is reactive, and use a secure yard for free play.
Mental work tires an AmStaff as well as physical exercise does. Short training games, scent work and puzzle feeders on rest days keep a strong, smart dog content.
Grooming and shedding
VCA rates grooming needs as low and shedding as low to moderate, and recommends weekly brushing with baths as needed. A rubber curry brush keeps the short coat glossy.
Check the skin when you brush, since VCA lists skin allergies for the breed. Keep the nails short, clean the ears as needed and brush the teeth several times a week.
Short coats show skin problems quickly, so use grooming time to check for redness, bumps or hair loss. Note any lump's size and position and show it to your vet.
Training an American Staffordshire Terrier
VCA says AmStaffs respond best to consistent, positive training. They are eager to please, and food and play are strong motivators.
Start puppy classes early and keep socializing with calm, well-mannered dogs. Teach loose-leash walking, a solid leave it and calm greetings, because a strong dog that pulls or jumps is hard to manage.
Keep training fun and short, with plenty of praise and food. A good recall and a calm settle on a mat make everyday life with a strong, enthusiastic dog much easier.
Are American Staffordshire Terriers good with kids and other pets?
VCA says AmStaffs are generally good with children when supervised. Many are very affectionate with their family's children, but their strength and exuberance call for supervision with small kids.
VCA notes they may need careful management around other pets. Introduce new dogs slowly and on neutral ground, and supervise around cats and small pets.
Teach children not to tease or wrestle with the dog, and give it a quiet place to rest. Clear rules and supervision protect children and the dog alike.
What an American Staffordshire Terrier needs at home
A secure fence, a sturdy crate, a durable bed and a well-fitted harness and strong leash are the basics. Heavy-duty chew toys and tug toys and puzzle feeders give a strong dog an outlet.
For care, keep a rubber curry brush, nail grinder, ear cleaner and dog toothbrush, plus a coat for cold walks. Ask your vet about joint health and skin care.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
How long do American Staffordshire Terriers live?
VCA gives a lifespan of 12 to 16 years. Keeping your AmStaff lean protects its hips and knees, which VCA notes are prone to joint disease.
Is an American Staffordshire Terrier a pit bull?
The AmStaff is a distinct AKC-recognized breed, though it is often grouped with pit bull-type dogs. It has its own breed standard, size range and history.
How big do American Staffordshire Terriers get?
The AKC lists males at 18 to 19 inches and 55 to 70 pounds, and females at 17 to 18 inches and 40 to 55 pounds.
Are American Staffordshire Terriers good family dogs?
They can be. VCA describes AmStaffs as affectionate and people-focused and generally good with supervised children, but some are reactive with other dogs. Your vet can advise on what suits your own pet.
Do American Staffordshire Terriers shed?
VCA rates shedding as low to moderate and grooming needs as low. Weekly brushing with a rubber curry brush and occasional baths keep the short coat glossy and healthy.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.
