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American Staffordshire Terrier |
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The American Staffordshire Terrier's ancestor, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, was developed in England and brought to the United States in the mid-19th century to compete in the fighting pits. "Cockney" Charlie Lloyd is credited with bringing over "Pilot," "Paddy" and other dogs who figured in the formation of the American strain. Breeders increased the size and height of the British version, and ears were cropped to accentuate the more massive head and to prevent them from being ripped in a fight. Over the years, this dog has been labeled with a variety of names: Bull-and-Terrier, Half-and-Half, Pit Dog, Pit Bull Terrier, American Bull Terrier and even Yankee Terrier. While some of their brethren were sentenced to life in the pits, other more fortunate American Staffordshire Terriers guarded the frontier families and homesteads. In 1900, dog-fighting
was generally outlawed in America, and a group of fanciers, who were opposed
to any association with the crime, wanted to promote other characteristics
of the breed. The American Staffordshire served its country during WWI,
with "Stubby" becoming the most decorated war dog and earning
the rank of sergeant. It was important to the new breed image to avoid
breed names associated with the pits. Breeder Joe Dunn headed the movement
to bring together a club, which resulted in the name (and the breed) Staffordshire
Terrier being recognized by AKC in 1936. The word American was added,
in 1972, to differentiate from AKC's newly recognized Staffordshire Bull
Terrier. A modest demand for AmS-taffs exists in America, but they are
rarely seen in Canada.
During the breed's
early years of AKC competition, an engaging group of kids entertained
American children. These "Little Rascals," (or "Our Gang")
had a constant pal in "Pete," their black-eyed Staff, also claimed
as a Pit Bull.
Even at the
nadir of dog-fighting, the hostility was toward other dogs, not to people.
This dog was specifically chosen for his acceptance of being grasped
or restrained by his handler, even during the frenzy of a fight.
The modern
version of the American Staffordshire Terrier is affectionate and reliable
with people and, in fact, the high tolerance which served them well
in the blood sport gives them unusual patience with children. They barely
notice an infant chewing on their ear or a toddler playing "horsie."
An occasional bump with a crutch or wheelchair is taken with good humor,
making them good companions for the handicapped. Despite this amiability
with humans, some Staffs retain their terrierlike pugnacity toward other
animals, and owners must be capable of maintaining control.
Their coat
requires only a couple swipes with the brush to stay neat. The American
Staffordshire Terrier breed has an uncanny ability to discern between
friend and foe. All these qualities, plus their robust good health,
make them a good choice whether on farms or in apartments.
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