Page 215 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

TERRIERS 215

AMERICAN STAFFORDSHIRE TERRIER

A LARGER VERSION OF THE ENGLISH STAFFIE, THIS IS A COURAGEOUS AND COMPANIONABLE DOG AKC

Height range Developed from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier (opposite), this dog was Very prominent
17–19 in (43–48 cm) recognized as a separate breed in the United States in the 1930s. Apart cheek muscles
Weight range from being more heavily built than its English counterpart, the American
57–66 lb (26–30 kg)
Staffordshire Terrier shares all the characteristics of the original
Life span 10–16 years “Staffie.” It is bold and intelligent and makes a loyal family pet.
Origin US

Powerful,
Other colors muscular thighs

Dark eyes Heavy neck,
set low and slightly arched
Variety of colors wide apart

Short, stiff,
shiny, blue-
Broad, fawn coat
deep Moderately sized,
chest compact feet

White feet

AMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIER

NOT RECOMMENDED FOR MOST OWNERS, THIS DOG NEEDS SKILLED HANDLING

Height range The ancestors of the American Pit Bull Terrier were
18–22 in (46–56 cm) dogs brought to the United States in the 19th century
Weight range by Irish immigrants. Although bred for Distinctive
31–60 lb (14–27 kg) High-set, wrinkles on
fighting, this dog became greatly semierect ears forehead
Life span 12 years loved as a working or family dog.
Origin US The breed has lately acquired
a reputation for aggression,
which is vigorously refuted
by its supporters.
Muscular,
Other colors heavy neck
Tapering tail
Any color
Merle colors discouraged. Body stockily Deep, moderately
Short, dense, built, muscular, wide chest, with
glossy, red coat and agile small, white markings

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