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I have an American Staffordshire Terrier and my family...

<< Back to: rec.pets.dogs: American Pit Bull Terriers Breed-FAQ, Part 2/3

Question by BeckLes
Submitted on 11/28/2003
Related FAQ: rec.pets.dogs: American Pit Bull Terriers Breed-FAQ, Part 2/3
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I have an American Staffordshire Terrier and my family doesnt trust him because they say he is a pitbul and they are not trustworthy. Should i trust that my dog wont bite or should i be cautious?


Answer by Brian T.W.
Submitted on 12/3/2003
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Your pitbull will not bit you unless you use physical abuse towards it.

 

Answer by Ryan
Submitted on 12/29/2003
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you dog is not a pittbull although the pit comes from the certain breed they are not the same dog. notice that a pit can not be AKC reg. to where the Amstaff can be. you dog will not attack nor show any threat to you unless you miss-treat it. they are just like kids they love to play ALOT and love attention. dont worry as long you you treat you dog very good it will treat you good. just make sure not to wrestle around the dog with a stranger cause the dog will assume your are being attack and will more than likly defend you by attacking them.

 

Answer by Pittstaff
Submitted on 1/4/2004
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In our experience doing Amstaff and Pitbull rescue we have found that the vast majority of the dogs are very sweet and exceptional with people. Just like kids, it is how you raise them and socialize them that counts along with proper training. Never encourage rough play and never use negative/physical abuse while training.  The Amtaffs are very affectionate and seem to figure out where the bed is right off the bat and want to be with you at all times. They all have very different personalities, but have all been exceptional dogs in our estimation. Additionally, I trust my Amstaff with children more that my other big dogs as he is more gentle and seems to respect the small childrens size better

 

Answer by Allibear
Submitted on 1/11/2004
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I have the same type of dog, and even though I trust him, it is people I do not necessarily trust, and therefore I am cautious with my dog. I would be no matter what breed he was. When we go for walks I keep him on a short leash and do not let strangers pet him. Even though he has never been aggressive, I do not want to risk someone provoking my dog, and then blaming the dog if he bites. No matter what breed of dog you have, use common sense, and hopefully there will be no problems.

 

Answer by Lovinsgtmjr
Submitted on 1/27/2004
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I have the same type of dog. I've had him for almost a year. I got him in NJ and he was at a sheltor. My parents adoor him and he misses them when we leave their home. He knows them by Nana and Papa. He goes crazy when I ask him if he wants to go visit them. I had a 14 month old play with him. SGT MJR had never played with a child before and he is a gentle as a Teady Bear. Then my 2 year old cousin played with him for the first time and they became best friends in minutes. They fell asleep lying next to each other. My dog loves attention from anyone. He is very protective of his home. I am very troubled that people label my dog as a Pit. He may be a cousin breed to it but is not a Pit Bull. There is no reason why we should be denied housing just on this breed either. I think it's unfair to label the breed. Also when you get an apartment they should evaluate the individual dog itself.

 

Answer by stellargirl
Submitted on 1/29/2004
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I have been raised with am staffs my entire life; when I was a child I was growing up with a puppy and lived with all of her pups. Every dog has been exceptionally gentle yet very protective not only of just one person, but the entire family. They love anyone that does not give them abuse or show harm towards the family. I now have my own 8 month old am staff that I have had since 6 weeks. She is just as lovable as the dogs I had as a child and is extremely smart. I have no problem with her around my kids, they love her and she is great with them!

 

Answer by New Traininer
Submitted on 2/15/2004
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I have two  American Staffordshire Terrier, and just got them, they was born in Nov. and it is now Feb. So they are new to us, but it is hard to house train them. Any tips??

 

Answer by aimee
Submitted on 2/16/2004
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try crate training your puppies.  It is always harder with two.

 

Answer by rita
Submitted on 2/17/2004
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i have an american staf. terrier., his name is rocky, had him since he was 6 months old. he is 9 now..luv him to death..... we lived in the states with him up until 2 years ago.we moved to mexico...... (semi retired) and HE LUVS IT HERE, the beach, the walking, the house.... ( the heat)ha ha.
anyway, he is so so affectiate..... sleeps with us... eats with us... he is so so protective of us... and our home.
we traveled from pa. to cozumel mexico with rocky...was not easy.. mexican hotels would not allow rocky in...so we just slept with him in our truck..... he traveled on a ferry boat to our island...and has been luving it since.
you did have a few run ins iwht strays..however, he was NEVER WENT TO THEM., they always approched rocky.
he doesnt look for trouble.... and we will not even travel the states together..because we will not leave him alone...even though our yard, ( with a pool which he luvs). is gated, and has high walls.... Which does have its pros and cons., since we have not traveled together home... since we arrived here., can't find a sitter.... for Rocky !
our kids, in their 20's have been here, and BELIEVE ME he remembers them, kisses, hugs etc.
i know these dogs have a bad rep.... but, its all in the training..... and the care.
Rocky luvs chicken, (which he gets all the time fresh) and filet migon.. oh yeah, he eats regular dog food too.
sleeps right with us every nite (in our bed) even though  he has a guest room.,  which he will not go in , unless we have guests...then he sleeps with them ....
he luvs the beach.... we always walk him with a leash.. however, we go to the beach area every day... where there are no tourists, and he luvs to run after a old beat up soccer bad.. jump and waves., and run the beach.
then we carry containers of water., wash him off, hops in the truck and off we go.. luvs to ride around town, looks out the window...just like a little kid wanting to go for a ride.....
SO.... let me just say..... from Penna. to Mexico.....  How much do we luv our rocky.
rita and tom tomassian cozumel, mexico

 

Answer by Dana
Submitted on 3/20/2004
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They are great dogs.  You should get rid of him if he will not be loved and appreciated, like he deserves.

 

Answer by Loving Sabre
Submitted on 4/16/2004
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I just want to say Bravo to Lovin Sgt Mjr. I to am discouraged when these breeds of dogs are compared to Pit Bulls, my son got a Amstaff when he was 2 months old, he is a year now, his name is Sabre, and we love him to death he is the joy of our lives, and we can tell he loves us just as much. It really bothers me when i walk him and people look at him like he's a monster, and they walk way around you. People have the wrong idea about these dogs, and if they would read and get to know these dogs like we did, they would see how gentle and loving these dogs really are. I am currently looking to move, and i know it will be hard to find a place to live where he will be accepted. Where Sabre goes we go, even if it takes forever.

 

Answer by CH
Submitted on 4/19/2004
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You all act like the pit bull is a monster and the amstaff is a saint.  The fact of the matter is that they have almost the same temperment.  The only difference is that a pit bull isn't afraid of anything, can herd cattle, do search and rescue, save a kid from drowning, discover a german spy and hold him until help arrived, do therapy work with the elderly and inferm, make great drug sniffing dogs, and can whip any animal on the block (but only when they have to).  The amstaff on the other hand has been bred to pose, look pretty, and accept a ribbon.  They look like the pit bull to some degree but that's the end of the similarities, The thought of pit bulls being confused with amstaffs makes me sick.

 

Answer by tigercats12
Submitted on 4/22/2004
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"You all act like the pit bull is a monster and the amstaff is a saint.  The fact of the matter is that they have almost the same temperment"

NO the REAL fact of the matter is..THEY ARE THEY SAME DOG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GEEZ WHY IS THAT SO HARD FOR YOU TO UNDERSTAND.. AN AMSTAF CAN BE DUEL REGISTERED AS AN AMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIER, AND VICE VERSA... GEEZ!!!

WHEN PEOPLE SAY A TRUE PIT, THAT JUST SIMPLY MEANS IT WAS NOT BRED FOR CONFORMATION, BUT ABILITY AND GAMENESS.. YOU CAN HAVE AMSTAFFS THAT ARE GAME AS WELL THOUGH IT IS RARE.. MOST(NOT ALL) AMSTAFF BREEDERS BREED FOR SHOW CONFORMATION..  PEOPLE TEND TO SAY THEY ARE DIFFERENT DOGS BECAUSE TODAY FOR THE MOST PART THEY WERE BRED FOR 2 DIFFERENT THINGS, ABILITY AND CONFORMNATION.. BUT IN FACT THEY ARE THE SAME DOG..........

 

Answer by CurrlieGirrlie21
Submitted on 4/28/2004
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I am a proud owner of the most sweetest, kind hearted, smart, funny and ofcourse great looking AMSTAFF! I feel that people should do extensive research on this breed before they choose to buy one. These dogs are known to be loyal, smart, and protective, but if they are not bred and raised properly they may do damage to the family and the surrounding, since they are pretty strong! My answer to the question, is that one must be fully aware, prepared and open to own this breed, if you feel that the dog may b e aggressive only because he looks a certain way then you should stick to a poodle. P.S> for anyone that has any confusion between Amstaff and Pitbull can check out www.realpitbull.com!

 

Answer by Loving Sabre
Submitted on 5/4/2004
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I wanted to clear something up, i didn't mean to make the american pit sound like a monster. I know any dog period is not a  saint. That's just how people percieve these type of dogs and with good reason. But they are not all alike. With a good loving family, you'll have a good pet. And i agree research should be done on this breed. If my son would of got a pit we would have loved him the same, and i still would be upset at how people look at these dogs. That's what really makes me mad. So, I apologize for the misunderstanding.

 

Answer by donna uk
Submitted on 5/11/2004
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Hi, im from the uk and i bought an american staff in november and i love him to bits. the problem is that im not clear on the fact that my dog is a pitbul or not. i am not bothered if he is cos the way i see it, a dog is a dog right! what bothers me is that there are laws on having a pitbul in the uk and there is no law if you have an amstaff. well i bought him as an amstaff and many people have approched me recently and asked me if he is a pitbul. apart from the fact that no one can make their mind up whether the pit and the amstaff are the same dog or not, all im worried about is that one day i might have to prove that he is an amstaff and not a pit in order to keep him. im not sure on the laws of pitbuls in uk and i dont want to draw attention to my dog by tryin to find out, and with no papers when i bought him and just the goodwill of the seller sayin hes an amstaff im not sure what to do!!! my questions are 'is an amstaff and pitbul the same dog or not!' and 'if not how can i tell the bloody difference!!' SOMEONE HELP ME PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!

 

Answer by Dan
Submitted on 5/24/2004
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Donna, type in American staff on google and there are lists of sites which explain the origin of the amstaff. I'm almost certain that the pitbull and the American staff can be registered as the same breed though, but it is worth looking into.

 

Answer by Bmac
Submitted on 7/13/2004
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Hey people.  I realize that you all own and love your dogs.  I rescued an "amstaff"  from a shelter and I love her more than anything.  She's a sweetheart, a strong sweetheart.  She goes to work with me, my baseball games etc.  When people ask me what she is, I say either a pit or an amstaff. I don't know, or care.  People shoot me looks on the street.  Screw them.  Let them be scared.  I'm the one who enjoys her company, not them.  If they met her, they'd love her.  So all you out there pondering the difference in the breeds, stop denying the fact that they are both bully breeds, from the bulldog and terrier mix.  YOU OWN a dog that has a bad rap.  Come to terms and be PROUD, because properly trained, this will be the best friend and companion that you will have in you whole life.  

 

Answer by AMSTAFFVR6
Submitted on 8/4/2004
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You obvoiusly own this American staffordshire Terrier, therefore you must have interacted with him/her before. You sound as if you don't know anything about your dog to be listening to what others say about his/her temperment. The important thing in dog ownership is to get a bond or relation with your dog. As far as American Staffordshire Terriers go they can be a bit stubborn yet when that relationship is biult they do nothing but want to please you. The American Staffordshire Terrier is a breed of dog that is strong, therefore we see the media quick to Label it as a "Pitbull". In fact There is no breed  called the "Pitbull" there is only the UKC's"American Pitbull Terrier". An interesting fact is that the UKC'sfirst recognized breed was the American Pitbull Terrier, this was the dog that would help lay the foundations for one of the biggest kennel clubs in the world. However, The Amerian Pitbull terrier isn't recognized in the AKC, so if you have a real prue breed American Staffordshire terrier you have a dog that can have double membership and it therefore can be a American Pitbull Terrier in the UKC, however pitbulls can not be Amstaffs (American Staffordshire Terriers abv). The American Staffordshire Terrier was born from a fighting backround, with the advent of blood sports in england and ireland. In staffordshire England bull baiting was a very popular sport in which dogs would attack a bull. These dogs where brough over to america and breed to be bigger. Ironically enough we see that an american staffordshire Terrier is more unlikely to bite a human due to it's fighting backround. In the dog ring, or pit, any dog that would attack a owner would be shot or killed, therefore evolution made them human friendly do to all the fact all the human aggressive amstaffs were killed. They are still somewhat aggressive towards other dogs, unless properly socialized yet as far as poeple go they are one of the most loyal trustworthy dogs out there. You have nothing to worry about as long as you train your dog well, and make sure to take extra good care of it. American Staffordshire's are good with children, and all types of poeple. DON'T GET THE DOG SO YOU FEEL TOUGH get the dog so you can have a friend to protect and love you and your family. The above does not apply to mixed breed dogs that show traits of American Staffordshire Terriers , since so many poeple are breeding for money or power.

 

Answer by bender
Submitted on 8/31/2004
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i'mfrom the phils. at our country there are no amstaffs just pitbulls and we love them. I THINK PITS ARE ONLY FOR SPECIAL PEOPLE AND NOT FOR SISSIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Answer by Hamana
Submitted on 9/11/2004
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I have 2 amstafs their both great with  people and really good dogs, well behaved obedient, I've been breeding the same line for ten years now, they are really good dogs, never gave a reason to doubt them, but I still wouldn't leave my dog with another person,they are exceptional dogs but I'm daddy, anyone else, even people they know, they won't listen to, as well as if it's me. All I'm saying is it's all in the upbringing, and there are times when you got to be firm, if they are bad say bad dog or no,the dog will know they are doing something wrong every time you have that tone, when you call you're dog make sure it comes to you all the way up, because if you don't, when the dog is doing something wrong and you call him/her they won't come to you, because they know it's OK not to go back, when they don't come go get them put them on a leash,  and say bad dog, if they come back say good dog rub their head and  let them go play. that's how I teach my dogs  ALWAYS KEEP AN EYE ON YOUR DOG, the devil was a saint once.

 

Answer by marc
Submitted on 9/13/2004
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it's people like you who give am staffs and pit bulls a bad name,I'm not a big fan of pitbulls and american staffs,but what you'rdoing is wrong.these two breed are best suted outside,and not inside an apartment.aggresion is within the nature of these dogs,no matter what you do.if these dogs get exited,they WILL BITE,like any other fighting breed.

 

Answer by ongoingpain
Submitted on 10/6/2004
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You should always keep your Am-staff leashed when outdoors, and watch him closely when around other dogs, animals and children that aren't members of your family. An unleashed Am-staff attacked my yellow lab, and both of my hands were injured as a result of a natural behavior to try to save my dog. It took two months and surgeries for my dog to heal, and I'm about to have a second surgery on my dominant hand. The incident happened almost 5 months ago, and I hadn't planned on spending the last 5 months in pain. Please give your dog lots of love, be responsible with him, and pay attention to his behavior.

 

Answer by marty and rocko
Submitted on 10/21/2004
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I have owned my staff for four years and on a daily basis he is in my truck and i see people of all walks of life looking over and smiling,nudging the kids to look over to see this beautiful staff,at parks everybody comes up to him and seem to walk away in a better mood as when they arrived due to the fact that he is a very social and happy dog because i socialized him as much as possible on a daily baisis,and as a responsible owner it is my duty to tell  children that they cannot assume that all dogs can be so freely approached as they approached rocko. To sum up what i am saying is us responsible, loving pitt owners need to focus on our own accomplishments and keep giving our all to our best friend.

 

Answer by marty and rocko.....again
Submitted on 10/21/2004
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In my opinion the best thing someone can do is socialization,such as having people of all age, size, and color around your puppy as much as possible from the get go,putting their hands in the food as he eats,hand contact with his fovorite toy as he is playing with it and so on,that includes other dogs should be around them also.You do that on a regular basis he wont run into any suprises in his adult life.As an adult dog that will automaticily be looked at as a bad breed, at least he will see everybody as "cool another friend,right on!" and walk away a better species as thoes that will pre judge him.

 

Answer by marty and rocko.....again
Submitted on 10/21/2004
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In my opinion the best thing someone can do is socialization,such as having people of all age, size, and color around your puppy as much as possible from the get go,putting their hands in the food as he eats,hand contact with his fovorite toy as he is playing with it and so on,that includes other dogs should be around them also.You do that on a regular basis he wont run into any suprises in his adult life.As an adult dog that will automaticily be looked at as a bad breed, at least he will see everybody as "cool another friend,right on!" and walk away a better species as thoes that will pre judge him.

 

Answer by Paul from uk
Submitted on 11/8/2004
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I am buying a AM staff pretty soon and would like to no how you go about registering it in the uk as a staff bull terrier...thanks....

I love these dogs...

 

Answer by dymond wytch
Submitted on 11/12/2004
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I have been a vet nurse for 15 years and i can tell you any bully breed is worth its weight in gold.actually the "pitbull" is a combination of several breeds(English bull dog, mastiffs,and several other terrier breeds) they were created by cross breeding by the minors in the Yukon during the gold rush. dog"pit"(hence the name) fighting was big entertainment then and they needed a breed that was small, compact and above all loyal to the owner. the pit bull was born. the am staff is a few steps up the ladder but only the well bred one. the Americans are simple breeding experiments from 100 years ago. so let it go people.A dog will act how you treat it, never let it forget whose the alpha and you won't have an aggression problem. I'm the proud owner of a rescued red nose pit and she's the best little watch dog in town.

 

Answer by Jess
Submitted on 11/16/2004
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Hi there...I am the proud new owner of an 8 week old Amstaff.  She is incredibly sweet...most of the time...occassionly she gets so excited to play that she can be a little rough.  I was just wondering if anyone had any tips or examples of things they did to train their Amstaff when they first brought her home.

 

Answer by jsears1979
Submitted on 11/29/2004
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Hello,
I would just like to say that I too have rescued an AmStaff from a shelter. She is probably the sweetest thing that I know. She loves to play and give people a kiss. I also have a 4 year old son, a 7 year old stepdaughter and a 2 year old niece. I must say that this dog is probably one of the most tolerable things that I have ever known.
Great dog and great friend

 

Answer by i want a pitbull
Submitted on 12/7/2004
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OK, i live in the UK and there are laws against pit bulls. I would really like one and i just wanted to know if i could pass it off as an American staff? Most people i know can hardly tell the difference  between the two breeds so would it work? a few more things, if i have to take my pit to the vet ,for whatever reason, could i trust my vet not to rat me out to the authorities or could i simply go in get what is needed and leave? One more thing, is it safe to let a pit or staff off the lead in a public place? I have a large forest area right near my house which always has people walking there dogs etc. Is it safe both for the the dog and other people/pets? SOMEONE PLEASE HELP!!!!

 

Answer by annie uk
Submitted on 12/9/2004
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I would really love to know where i can get an am staff in the UK. I already have a Irish staffy and i would love to get an American. can anyone help me with any breeders in the UK or any site to check out. All your views are really interesting, I love all staffy's i think they make superb and loyal pets.

 

Answer by t diddy
Submitted on 1/14/2005
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hey i have a pitbull and i just bought another pitbull and the new pitbull is american pitbull terrier and american staffordshire, and they are the same type of dog!!

 

Answer by matt
Submitted on 2/1/2005
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it won't bite unless u miss treat it!!! and screw youre family.

 

Answer by michpal
Submitted on 2/2/2005
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brown dog

 

Answer by Dee026 FLA
Submitted on 2/3/2005
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I have recently just adopted an American Staff mix from the local humane society. He is adorable and I do agree that with a lot of other commenters of how people judge your dog without even knowing him. He is really lovable and playful. The only issue with him that concerns me sometimes is that he has not been very friendly with children of any ages. He growls or tries to nip them. I have been told that training will help him. Is this normal? I have read everywhere that these dogs are great with children. I want my dog to be the same. Any suggestions.

 

Answer by viper
Submitted on 4/6/2005
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yo yo yo,
i have a american pit terrier crossed with a staffordshire pit and it iz vicous an1 hu goes near it it attacks them ecept me!!!
iv got dogs u no 15 of them all crossed(american pit).



yo i waz only jokin hahah

 

Answer by kev reid
Submitted on 4/6/2005
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can a pitbull and amstaff share the dame house

 

Answer by STIRCK
Submitted on 4/10/2005
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HELLO I'M FROM TENN. WE HAVE A BRINDLE MALE AM STAFF. WE GOT HIM FROM THE POUND ABOUT MONTH AGO. I WANTED PUPPY . BULLSEYE IS HIS NAME HE IS 11 MONTHS OLD.NOT REALLY A SMALL PUPPY. WE ALSO HAVE A POM 7-8 LBS HER NAME IS ROXY. LAST YEAR OUR OTHER POM WAS KILLED BY THE DOG NEXT DOOR .AN AKITA.MY WIFE WAS NOT HAPPY I WAS GOING TO THE POUND TO LOOK FOR PUPPYS FEARING ANOTHER ATTACH BY BIGGER DOGS. WHEN I FOUND BULLSEYE SHE BROUGHT ROXY TO THE POUND TO SEE HOW THEY GOT ALONG . THEY WERE GREAT FROM THE VERY FIRST MEETING. BULLSEYE HAS SUCH A GOOD SPIRT HE PLAYS SO GENTLE WITH ROXY THAT MY WIFE NEW AS I DID THAT HE WAS THE RIGHT DOG FOR US. ITS BEEN A MONTH SINCE HE CAME HOME WITH US AN EVERYTHING IS GREAT . SHE HAS HER CRATE AN HE HAS HIS. THEY PLAY IN THE BACK YARD SO WELL .THAT ITS LIKE WE HAD HIM FOR YEARS . WHEN HE WENT TO GET HIS SHOT AT THE VET .THEY THOUGHT I HAD HIM FOR YEARS . THE ONLY THING I CAN SAY IS THAT IT SEEM TO ME THAT AMSTAFF HAVE SUCH A GREAT SPIRT THAT THEY KNOW HOW TO ACT WITH CHILDREN, SMALL DOGS, GOOD STRANGERS. HE ONLY SHOW AGRESSION WHEN A UNLEASHED DOG CHALLENGES HIM A FEW FEET AWAY.THERE QUIET HARDLY BARK. HE NEVER CHEW ANYTHING IN THE HOUSE. HE IS ALWAYS BY MY SIDE. HE LAYING RIGHT NEXT TO ME RIGHT NOW AS I RIGHT THIS ANSWER.IF YOU GIVE HIM GOOD TRAINING SPEND TIME WITH HIM HE WILL ALWAYS BE THERE FOR YOU. WE ARE SO HAPPY WITH HIM I CAN'T BELIEVE THE STORYS THAT THE PRESS AN THE PUBLIC HAVE ABOUT THE BREEDS AMERICAN STAFORDSHIRE PITTBULL TERRIERS. THERE MUST BE SOME PEOPLE THAT HAVE ACTTED IRRESPONSIBLY FOR ANY PITTBULL TO MISBEHAVE. NEVER FEAR YOUR DOG JUST GET A BOOK OR SIGN UP FOR DOG TRANING CLASS THEY LOVE TO DO TRICK FOR YOU. PETSMART IS CHEAP CLASS AND IS FUN TO GO TOO. GOOD LUCK  P.S. HOUSEBREAKING AND THE OTHER STUFF YOU NEED TO LEARN ARE EASY TO LEARN .THERE NEVER A BAD DOG JUST ONE THAT NOT BEEN TAUGHT HOW TO ACT. REMEMBER THAT HE IS A DOG .SO LET HIM KNOW WHAT EXSPECTED OF HIM IN A POSTIVE WAY . HE LOVES TO PLEASE BUT HE CAN'T READ MINDS

THANKS  EDWARD STRICKLIN  MURFRESSBORO TN  

 

Answer by tron
Submitted on 4/13/2005
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I was under the impression that the pitbul or amstaff was the same dog.  AKC registered as American Staffordshire Terrier and UKC registered as American Pitbull Terrier.. Someone. please clarify.

 

Answer by bully breed lover
Submitted on 4/22/2005
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We adopted our amstaff almost 3 years ago now.  My husband and I love our guy more than words can say.  He is great around people and exceptional with children and babies.  He loves most every dog he meets.  My Question is this:  We want to get him a sister, and we will only adopt as I do not believe in breeding.  Does anyone have any suggestions on getting a younger v. older dog? Has anyone brought a second dog into their home, and how has it worked out?

 

Answer by kuki
Submitted on 5/3/2005
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ja rule has an american staff in frizinhall and it is friendly with his dad

 

Answer by pat
Submitted on 5/31/2005
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ive raised 3 am staffs from pups& socialized them with people & outher dogs & cats ect. this should make them non aggresive. when at 1 year old or so 1 became hostile to outher dogs it was just in his, magnums bloodline .now romeo is sweet the neighbors little boston terrier comes under the fence and has niped romeo on 4 ocassions sweet romeo just looks at em .hes passive to all dogs to a point.but dont try to rough house or spank a child around him or else. just raise um with love gentelness&you will most likely have a fine dog.please dont do anything to make um agressive. when matured thir great family protectors instintivly.espically good with kids. but theres IDIOTS who do s*^t to make um agressive and ruin um. vary few bad dogs-vary many stupid bad dog owners. an IDIOT can ruin any dog rott,shep,lab,chow,poodle,ect i  got a rescue staffy two the girl at the vet that contracted with animal control to put em down thought hes so sweet we broke em out .4 yrs now hes the smartest loyalist best staffy not one problum. he sleeps in my bed likes to get under the covers .vary O>Beadient retrives, great tracker,ect and i know any  of my staffys would lay down his life to protect his family without regret.  

 

Answer by Madman Jeff
Submitted on 6/20/2005
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Dan I believe you have a valid point that the two are indeed the same breed or alike enough to be registered as in the same category. all documented history I've been able see leads me to this conclusion. People often would say that my is Pit, Cool let that be. Because the feedback that I get is most people are often quite surprised by loving nature and obedience that she naturally shows. It does not matter if your dogs is pit, Am staff or poodle it will always project its owners characteristics. And as to law in this country and responsible owner would be drawing any unwanted attention. My dog is seen on the road regular by the local police and most seemed smitten by her charm.

 

Answer by Ashley
Submitted on 7/17/2005
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Everyone thinks pits r soo mean well guess wht they are the sweetest dog in the world i have 3 and they are just wonderful

 

Answer by james
Submitted on 7/17/2005
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Im just wondering, im from england.

are pit bull's legal in the UK or not?

 

Answer by Marty
Submitted on 7/19/2005
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To all- there is confusion about registering these dogs.  Someone above said that they can be registered as either, and this is NOT the case.  An AmStaff can be registered as a Pit, because the standards for a Pit allow ALL colors and nose colors, and don't have size limitations.  

The inverse is not true, however.  A Pit cannot be registered as an AmStaff because AmStaff standards have size, color, and nose color stipulations.  I hope this helps clear it up a bit.  I LOVE the bully breeds, and they are wonderful dogs IF they are properly trained.  This goes for any dog, in my opinion- poodles, chihuahuas, labradors, whatever.  I have met some NASTY cocker spaniels and poodles, and some wonderful bullies, dobermans, and rottweilers.  It's all about responsible ownership and proper training- plain and simple.

 

Answer by Marty
Submitted on 7/20/2005
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To all- there is confusion about registering these dogs.  Someone above said that they can be registered as either, and this is NOT the case.  An AmStaff can be registered as a Pit, because the standards for a Pit allow ALL colors and nose colors, and don't have size limitations.  

The inverse is not true, however.  A Pit cannot be registered as an AmStaff because AmStaff standards have size, color, and nose color stipulations.  I hope this helps clear it up a bit.  I LOVE the bully breeds, and they are wonderful dogs IF they are properly trained.  This goes for any dog, in my opinion- poodles, chihuahuas, labradors, whatever.  I have met some NASTY cocker spaniels and poodles, and some wonderful bullies, dobermans, and rottweilers.  It's all about responsible ownership and proper training- plain and simple.

 

Answer by shaky
Submitted on 10/8/2005
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im looking 4 a amstaff i live in mids uk any help would be a appricated cheers my email addy is shakkykkt72@tiscali.co.uk

 

Answer by krucial
Submitted on 10/29/2005
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i have a 6 month old lab im about to get a amstaff in december will they get along if i raise them together

 

Answer by Jeri
Submitted on 11/24/2005
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hey rita!  My Am Staff is Rocky too!!  Also got him at 6 months and wouldn't trade him for the world. He's the best dog I've ever had and I mean ever. He even tells me he loves me.  For REAL!!!  Just wanted to put my two cents worth in.

 

Answer by Lakaisha
Submitted on 2/7/2006
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Hi,

One of you is living in the UK: Donna.
Donna or someone else living in the UK, could you please help me... I own an 8 years old Am staff (got him since he was 8 weeks old)...the company I am working for wants to transfer me to the UK ( I am presently living in Paris)...now when I look on Internet, it says that even though Am staff are not part of the Banned Dogs List, whoever brings one in the Uk can have to prove in a court that his/her dog is not a pit bull...I do have my dog's CKC papers and everything..

However my main question here is: can any harm be done to my dog if I move in to the UK???!

Thanks for helping me.
I am kind of stressed out right now.. I wrote to the responsible ministry in the UK, they did not reply...

 

Answer by markie
Submitted on 2/10/2006
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Donna I live in the uk and both the Pitbull and the Am Staff are both Banned in this country as i found out whilst trying for ages to find a breeder I also confirmed this with the authorities so if I was you I would not go asking to many questions just wish i could get ahold of one as the normal staff is to small and I prefer the amstaff over the American bulldog which is legal over here :(

 

Answer by John
Submitted on 2/12/2006
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Anybody that owns a pit, or a Am Staff, or any of the "Bully" breed dogs for that matter, has hopefully accepted the responsibilty that goes along with it. Just got my first Am Staff, too young to pick up how aggressive he's going to be towards animals. But you know what, I'm prepared if he is. Let's be blunt, it's in their blood, and you have to accept the fact that your new puppy might have a very high prey drive towards other animals as an adult. I've had a Doberman, two Dogue De Bordeaux's, a Rottweiler, three pits, and this Am Staff (you might have noticed I like the "tough" dogs). Some have been passive towards other animals, others have been the extreme the other way, no matter how much you socialize them. It makes me very mad to hear of someone who has been irresponsible with one of these breeds, it causes a problem (and some of them are horrific), and the whole breed catches flack, when it should be turned around and aimed at the specific owners instead. One thing I will not have is a people-aggressive pet,that's just asking for trouble. Guarding your property and your family is one thing, to actively go after someone that doesn't deserve it is another. I can deal with the animal stuff, you just have to be aware of it. That means you watch it when they're loose, have a sufficiently secured yard if they're kept there, and aren't placed in situations out of your control. That's a responsible dog owner, regardless of the breed. Know your four legged family member!

 

Answer by dog
Submitted on 2/19/2006
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pit bulls are confiscated by the cops and all dogs are humalely put down
but amstaffs are legal
only a trained eye will be able to tell the difference

 

Answer by p
Submitted on 2/21/2006
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I have 2 Amer. Staff. brothers and got them at 10 weeks old.  Yes, it is a little tricky in the beginning with training.. but they will learn quickly.

Tip:  take them out as soon as they wake up, after play, after dinner and before bed.  In the beginning we took them out very frequently and it did not take that long. One dog learns from the other.

Tip:  If you have a house, put up a dog run with a 6' high fence (with bars along the bottom so they don't dig underneath) and concrete the bottom.  We leave clean up tools in there all the time (Home Depot big plastic container with a lid, lined with plastic bag, little broom and shovel).. and clean up immediately.  Hose down concrete with a little soapy water.. and this works out wonderfully.  It makes it so easy.

Tip:  Just love them and be kind to them.. they are "wonderful" dogs.. very kind and warm-hearted dogs.  

My dogs are now almost 5 years old.. and are the best thing that we ever did!!!!  They are very spoiled and sleep on piles of comforters and pillows in our bedroom. But - they are definitely worth spoiling.

Hang in there.. they will bring you years of joy and happiness to you and your family.


 

Answer by annon
Submitted on 2/24/2006
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i like pitbulls and staffs, and there are plenty of them around. mostly crosses but there are many full blooded ones, mostly around 70lbs maybe a bit more

 

Answer by tizz25079892
Submitted on 3/9/2006
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my army number

 

Answer by tizz25079892
Submitted on 3/9/2006
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i live in merthyr tydfil south wales im looking to get a american staffordshire terrier if anyone knows of breeders in the u.k could you please let me know thanks

 

Answer by cindy
Submitted on 3/13/2006
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I just got a puppy from a shelter. she is a mix american staff. she seems so sweet. I hate it when people are always talking bad about these dogs! I have two cats, and to tell you all, it seems as if my cats are  more aggressive then her!

 

Answer by Audrey
Submitted on 3/20/2006
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Donna... I'd be interesting in hearing more on the laws in Europe on AmStaff's... I'm in the military and I'm trying to figure out what countries I can take my AmStaff to without a whole lot of red tape.

 

Answer by biglyx60
Submitted on 4/14/2006
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just so you all know. the pitbull is just like any other dog. they attack when they feel the need. that is what animals do. they bit like all dogs at some point in time. thats like all dogs do the same thing. it's just that some are better at it.

 

Answer by Dixie
Submitted on 5/2/2006
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Regardless of what most people say AmStaffs and American Pit Bull Terriers are the same dog as the AmStaff line was a descendent of the Colby line of Pit Bulldogs from J.P. Colby of Boston.  The AmStaff people had stiff opposition from the Bull Terrier people and to avoid confusion named the breed American Stafforshire Terrier to be accepted in the AKC in 1935.  I have owned six American Pit BUll Terriers registered with the ADBA and UKC over the years and can honestly say that they when they are raised in a family environment are absolutely the most loving and loyal of dogs. These are the dogs coming from so called "pit" stock.  Now I also had contact with Jerry Rooney of Rowdytown Kennels in Michigan in the 1990's and he had some great dogs.  I treat both breeds as the same.  The more time and love you give the dog and with obedience training you will have a lifelong companion for you and your family.

 

Answer by manda
Submitted on 5/3/2006
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i have an american staffy and he is great there is a big diff between the too an american staff ancestor is the staffy bull terrier,although it is taller, heavier,and generally more substantail.    

 

Answer by mikex83x
Submitted on 6/5/2006
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who cares a dog is what you make it.
you could have a killer yorkie!
just wont do as much damage.
make sure you socilaise it and traint it from a young age.
be aware tho all dogs will protect the "alpha" human aka the owner.

 

Answer by John
Submitted on 7/3/2006
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I just recently purchased a red nose pitbull puppy from the animal shelter and have had many people tell me the same thing, that it is not trustworthy.  I would just like to say that I did plenty of research and these dogs were bred to be extremely aggressive towards other animals, but also extremely gentle towards their handler.  Of course these are just their hardwired genes and socialization could overcome dog on dog aggression (some dogs however it can not).  My only recommendation is, LOVE YOUR DOG, and it will show love in return.  But ... no matter how much you trust your dog. Keep it on a leash, be cautious around new people and new dogs, and SOCIALIZE SOCIALIZE SOCIALIZE.  Also dog parks are not a good idea ... at all.  They are way too hectic and their are too many things that could go wrong, and no matter whos fault it is your dog will always get the blame.  Anyways, i would never want a dog that is not a bully breed, they are truly the best, you've made a good choice.  (go get some books, they will educate you alot)

 

Answer by John
Submitted on 7/3/2006
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I just recently purchased a red nose pitbull puppy from the animal shelter and have had many people tell me the same thing, that it is not trustworthy.  I would just like to say that I did plenty of research and these dogs were bred to be extremely aggressive towards other animals, but also extremely gentle towards their handler.  Of course these are just their hardwired genes and socialization could overcome dog on dog aggression (some dogs however it can not).  My only recommendation is, LOVE YOUR DOG, and it will show love in return.  But ... no matter how much you trust your dog. Keep it on a leash, be cautious around new people and new dogs, and SOCIALIZE SOCIALIZE SOCIALIZE.  Also dog parks are not a good idea ... at all.  They are way too hectic and their are too many things that could go wrong, and no matter whos fault it is your dog will always get the blame.  Anyways, i would never want a dog that is not a bully breed, they are truly the best, you've made a good choice.  (go get some books, they will educate you alot)

 

Answer by a true pit bull owner
Submitted on 7/4/2006
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ok guys and dolls lol i have a true pit and a pit cross 2 dogue de bordeauxs  and the all stay with me in my house and get on very very well a pit bull is only bad wen its been treated bad dog aggressiv? well 60%-70% ov dogs are dog agressive its the numb sculls that made the pit bull have its bad reb  nost ov the atacks is cos ov bad owners .

 

Answer by Mel
Submitted on 7/18/2006
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I have a staff x pitbull and a pitbull.  It really fu(ks me off when i hear bull sh!t like that... Any dog is only as good as its up bringing!!!!!! I think the owners need to be in question rather than the dogs.

 

Answer by amstaff lover
Submitted on 8/1/2006
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I myself have an amstaff. His name is Ace and he just turned a year. He is the most loyal dog we have ever had. People say they are aggressive towards other dogs, we also have a cat in the house and a pure bred boxer named hunter. We had them both since eight weeks and they are the best of friends. I have had pitbulls in the past and even though its how You raise your dog i can tell you there temperment is quit different.

 

Answer by Nat
Submitted on 8/3/2006
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I have had my heart set on getting a american staff for ages, and im finally getting one, but one of my friends said there is a law in the u.k saying Am.staff's must wear muzzles all the time when they are out - is this true?

Thankyou

 

Answer by 4 dog owner
Submitted on 8/31/2006
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hi i have 2 pit buls and 2 dogue de bordeaux  4 kids and we on get on brill its not the dog its how u bring it up stupid peeps get the dogs to do stupid things and thats why they have a bad rep to many peeps breeding them and not caring where or who they sold them to.

 

Answer by shan
Submitted on 10/7/2006
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'donna' how the heck did u get a pit in the uk, there illgeal ( that means amstaffs also) and ANY dog that look like its a bull bull ( but not staffordshire bull terriers of course even tho they are part pit bull so to speak)  basically if it looks like a stafordshire bull terrier tbut taller and bigger, its illegal. id be careful if were you if somebody reports it you dog is D.E.A.D

 

Answer by Kolya
Submitted on 10/13/2006
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HELP people!

Can i buy Am staff in England??? because I know what some dogs is illegal in some Country (sorry for my English)

My email nazar_kolya@mail.ru

 

Answer by Doglover22
Submitted on 12/8/2006
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A American Staffordshire Terrier is totally different then a Pitt bull.I been doing alot of research and yes they are different.They have different temperaments,for example the Am Staff is safer to have then a pit bull and none of the terriers have lock Jaws

 

Answer by pitbul_apbt
Submitted on 12/19/2006
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Google can give you answers. You can search there for this!
<a href="www.pitbull-apbt.com">Pitbull Dog</a>

 

Answer by Worm
Submitted on 1/11/2007
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Its all in how u raise them my pit weighs almost 100 pounds is a little over two years old and is the biggest baby if u make them mean they will be mean think about it the so called fighting dog the pitbull was trained by a human to kill other animals not people half the stories u hear about on the news arent even pit bulls they are muts most of the time kept by irresponsible people

 

Answer by EMONEY
Submitted on 1/12/2007
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The fact of the matter is, the two dogs are different yet the same breeds. they are both bred from bull terriers, bull mastiffs, english staffordshire bull dogs, several other bulldog types, a little bit of terrier and dalmation....but, the staffordshire has a bigger head and broader chest........this comes from breeding w/ boxers to give them stronger heads, yet the pitbulls are more gamey and will do more damage, even though they are smaller.....basically, yes, the same dog, but at the same time....different.....you can't really compare the two to each other beacause they are bothbred from many different types of bulldogs.....they are the generally the same dog, and for the record the AKC will not dual register the pit as a staffordshire, nor will they register the pit at all......but the UKC dual registers them both as pits/staffordshires...

 

Answer by scott
Submitted on 3/26/2007
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The AKC recognizes Amstaffs but not Pits. An Amstaff can be dual registered, but a Pit cannot.

 

Answer by Roberto
Submitted on 3/26/2007
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Hello,I'm an Italian boy,I'm 24..I have the possibility to have a Amstaff, he is probably 1 year and some month old...What do you think?I don't know what he did before..what kind of education he receved..
Can you help me??What should i do?..Do you think that it could be difficult to have a dog like that??If you can answer to my mail rbersa20@hotmail.com if would be fantastic..Thanks!!Sorry for my English..

 

Answer by manny
Submitted on 7/9/2007
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well my pit is nice to people and loves to play arouned but not nice to some ather dogs

 

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