American Staffordshire Terrier (Amstaff, Pitbull Terrier)

 🐾 Express story  

The American Staffordshire Terrier (or Amstaff) is the result of the crossing of dogs used for fighting, primarily from the now-extinct Bull-and-Terrier and Blue Paul Terrier breeds. Although its origins date back to England in the early 19th century, it was developed in the United States in the early 20th century. The Amstaff has long been associated with dog fighting, but its temperament has evolved, and it is now valued as a companion and guard dog.  

 🐕 Portrait of the breed  

The Amstaff is a medium-sized, muscular, and powerful dog. Its robust appearance can impress many, but it is often a gentle and affectionate dog with its loved ones, once properly trained. Although it maintains a protective and sometimes reserved temperament, it is a loyal and intelligent companion. It adapts to indoor life but needs regular outings to expend energy.  

 🔍 In short  

- Hypoallergenic : No  

- Weight: 25-30 kg 

- Size: 45-48 cm (male), 43-45 cm (female)  

- Life expectancy: 12-14 years  

- Need for physical activity: 1.5 to 2 hours per day  

 ❤️ Personnality & compatibility  

- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  

- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Protector: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  

- Player: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Obedient: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Sporty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

Compatibility:  

- With the children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- With the animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- With the unknows: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- In apartment : ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

> Good to know: The Amstaff can live in an apartment, provided it can go out regularly and has a space where it can expend energy.

 🛠 Hygiene & care  

- Maintenance difficulty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆  

- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆  

- Maintenance frequency: ⭐⭐☆☆☆  

> The short and smooth coat of the Amstaff requires little maintenance, with a weekly brushing to remove dead hair being sufficient. Baths should only be given when he is really dirty.  

 💰 Budget  

- Purchase price: 500 to 1000 €  

- Average annual cost: €450 to €950 (veterinarian, accessories, food)  

💡 Fun fact: The Amstaff, although having a sometimes negative reputation, is a dog of great loyalty to its owners. It needs a firm and balanced owner for training, but once well-trained, it becomes a gentle and protective companion for the whole family.