American Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier dogs are part football player and part ballet dancer. They are stocky and muscular, but also agile and graceful.

Here are the characteristics of the American Staffordshire Terrier breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.

American Staffordshire Terrier's Behavior

Recommended for: house pets

Special note: American Staffordshire Terriers tend to be territorial, sometimes towards humans but especially towards other animals. Some dogs can even be aggressive toward other animals, though on the whole they are not aggressive toward humans. This kind of behavior is common in many breeds of dogs.

Remember that breed only provides a general clue as to any individual dog's actual behavior. Make sure to get to know dogs well before bringing them into your home.

American Staffordshire Terrier's Physical Characteristics

* Size: male: 18-19 inches (at shoulders); females: 17-18 inches (at shoulders)
* Coat: Short, close, stiff, and glossy.
* Color: More than 80 per cent white, black and tan.
* Eyes: Dark and round
* Skull: broad.
* Muzzle: Medium length, rounded.
* Nose: black.
* Tail: Short, low.