with dogs (including jumping up, pulling and aggressive behaviors), but must be used with care.
A training halter, including a flat collar and two straps, made of nylon and webbing, is designed for walking. There are several on the market; some are more difficult to put on the dog than others. The halter harness, with two small slip rings at each end, is recommended for ease of use.
A flexible lead is a possible option for walking adult AmStaffs that are already leash-wise. This type of leash is not typically recommended for powerful breeds, so you must be 100% sure that your AmStaff will behave well on a flexible leash. The “flexi” allows the dog to roam farther away from you and explore a wider area when out walking, and also retracts when you need to keep him close to you.
HOME SAFETY FOR YOUR PUPPY
The importance of puppy-proofing cannot be overstated. In addition to making your house comfortable for your AmStaff’s arrival, you also must make sure that your house is safe for your puppy before you bring him home. There are countless hazards in the owner’s personal living environment that a pup can sniff, chew, swallow or destroy. Many are obvious; others are not. Do a thorough advance house check to remove or rearrange those things that could hurt your puppy, keeping any potentially dangerous items out of areas to which he will have access.
Tonny van Zantvliet with her AmStaff named Lady. Lady has been trained to heel and behave politely on lead, so important with a powerful strong breed.
LEASH LIFE
Dogs love leashes! Believe it or not, most dogs dance for joy every time their owners pick up their leashes. The leash means that the dog is going for a walk—and there are few things more exciting than that! Here are some of the kinds of leashes that are commercially available.
Traditional Leash: Made of cotton, nylon or leather, these leashes are usually about 6 feet in length. A quality-made leather leash is softer on the hands than a nylon one. Durable woven cotton is a popular option. Lengths can vary up to about 48 feet, designed for different uses.
Chain Leash: Usually a metal chain leash with a plastic handle. This is not the best choice for most breeds, as it is heavier than other leashes and difficult to manage.
Retractable Leash: A long nylon cord is housed in a plastic device for extending and retracting. This leash, also known as a flexible leash, is ideal for taking trained dogs for long walks in open areas, although it is not recommended for large, powerful breeds. Different lengths and sizes are available, so check that you purchase one appropriate for your dog’s weight.
Elastic Leash: A nylon leash with an elastic extension. This is useful for well-trained dogs, especially in conjunction with a head halter.
Avoid leashes that are completely elastic, as they afford minimal control to the handler.
Adjustable Leash: This has two snaps, one on each end, and several metal rings. It is handy if you need to tether your dog temporarily, but is never to be used with a choke collar.
Tab Leash: A short leash (4 to 6 inches long) that attaches to your dog’s collar. This device serves like a handle, in case you have to grab your dog while he’s exercising off lead. It’s ideal for “half-trained” dogs or dogs that only listen half the time.
Slip Leash: Essentially a leash with a collar built in, similar to what a dog-show handler uses to show a dog. This British-style collar has a ring on the end so that you can form a slip collar. Useful if you have to catch your own runaway dog or a stray.
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