The American Staffordshire Terrier is a great breed of that is known for being very strong despite its medium size. With their brains and brawn, they can be trained to become dogs that can be kept in apartments or buildings. However, it is necessary for them to engage in exercise like jogging and walking daily to keep them from being frustrated indoors. Though they could be quite aggressive in the presence of other dogs, they can be trained to become gentle with other people, especially with little children. It is also recommended that they be trained as puppies so that they will grow up to be more sociable and decrease their tendency of being aggressive.

While this dog could be quite aggressive, one cannot question their intelligence and intense desire to please the owner. Once they have been trained by their owner or owners, they will recognize the authority and will do everything to obey their orders. With their happy and fun temperament, these dogs get the job done quickly and are great companions for singles or even for families.

Though the American Staffordshire can be trained by the owner or through an obedience school, housebreaking could be quite a difficult task. However, after the exercise, the owner can teach simple housebreaking methods like entering and exiting the door properly. At this point, the dog is already calm and all the attention is in the owner. When this happens, it would be easier to train the dog how to act around the house. Once they are housebroken, things will be easier at home and your dog will prove to be an obedient pet.

The American Staffordshire Terrier is known to be a great guard dog. They will guard their owner and their property until the end. They are extremely loyal and will remain obedient to their owners. Their senses are also sharp and their bodies are agile, proving them to be the perfect guard dog for your home and family. While they are reputable guards, they are also great companions who will remain loyal.  

Our 4 Paw Rating – to the suitability of the American Staffordshire Terrier for your home and lifestyle:

Size 
Shoulder height 17-19 inches, weight 57-65 lbs

Coat Care 
Short and smooth coat, regular brushing.

Family Life 
American Staffordshire Terriers get along well with children and other animals when properly trained, but are suitable as a guard dog

Lifestyle 
American Staffordshire Terriers will adapt to the lifestyle of your family with training, love and consistency

Health 
Life expectancy around 15 years
Test for heart murmurs, thyroid problems, skin allergies, tumors, hip dysplasia, hereditary cataracts and congenital heart disease.

Exercise 
American Staffordshire Terriers need plenty of exercise, and enjoy being taken on long walks and jogging. This also makes them calmer indoors.

Training 
American Staffordshire Terriers are easy to train, learn quickly, are eager to please and love to work once they recognize the owners authority. However, they could be difficult to housebreak.