Stafford or American Staffordshire Terrier, refers to fighting dog breeds. These dogs were bred in the 19th century by crossing a bulldog with a terrier. This is a rather aggressive breed that requires proper upbringing.
Description of the breed and character
Staffords have a short, thick coat of varying color. Such dogs can be either monochromatic or spotted. They are distinguished by strength and endurance, they can conquer high obstacles, climb with nails and pull themselves up on their mighty paws. These tetrapods jump 2 meters. Their height reaches half a meter, and their weight can be 30 or more kilograms. These dogs weigh so much because of their large muscle mass.
The Staffordshire Terrier is aggressive but safe for its owners if properly trained. Dogs of this breed are not only brave and courageous, but also loyal, like terriers. Although staffords can play too much and harm a person, because fighting blood flows in them. Through hard training, the dog will understand how to behave in order to be a friend and protector for his owners and their children. In case of danger, Stafford will save the owner from both an attacking intruder and a whole flock of stray dogs. It is worth noting that female staffords are less aggressive and do not tend to show themselves as leaders, like males of this breed.
Care features
The training of the animal must be started before the puppy reaches the age of one year, and preferably even up to six months. During training, a special role should be given to socialization so that the dog understands that not all people around him are going to harm her or the owner. First, vaccinate the puppy, then quarantine and take it to the dog grounds. Make sure that the stafford does not show excessive aggression, growl or rush at other dogs. There are special courses for training dogs of this breed, with the help of them you will know how to behave with a pet.
Care of the stafford's coat is not difficult as it is short. Brush it out with a stiff brush. Dogs of this breed love water treatments. Examine your dog for cuts and damage to the skin before bathing. When they are there, it is better to postpone the procedure. If your dog smells bad after taking a bath, it may be sick. See your veterinarian for advice. Walk your dog more, keeping it on a leash and muzzled.
Staffords are in good health and have practically no predisposition to hereditary diseases. However, cancer, deafness, volvulus, dysplasia, cataracts, and arthritis are on the list of potential diseases. Getting vaccinated on time will help you keep your pet healthy. Staffords can live to be 12-14 years old.
Dogs of this breed do not require special nutrition. They love offal, liver, lamb, beef, chicken heads and necks. The stafford's diet can include boiled fish and dairy products, as well as oatmeal, corn grits, buckwheat and wheat grits.
