Keeping an AmStaff in proper weight requires considerable conditioning and exercise. Show dogs must always be shown at the proper weight and well conditioned.
OWNER CONSIDERATIONS
Although the reader of these pages is more likely interested in finding a companionable family animal than a show champion, there remain many serious factors governing your choice. A primary consideration is time, not only the time of the animal’s allotted life span, which is well over ten years, but also of the time required for you to care for, train and exercise your pet. If you are not committed to the welfare and whole existence of this energetic, purposeful animal; if, in the simplest, most basic example, you are not willing to walk your dog daily, despite the weather, do not choose an American Staffordshire Terrier as a companion.
Space is another important consideration. The American Staffordshire Terrier in early puppyhood may be well accommodated in a corner of your kitchen, but as he grows up and becomes larger and stronger, a bigger space certainly will be required. A yard with a fence is also a basic and reasonable expectation.
Along with these factors, there are the usual problems associated with puppies of any breed like the damage likely to be sustained by your floors, furniture and flower beds and, not least of all, restrictions to your freedom, as in vacations or weekend trips. This union is a serious affair and should be deeply considered but, once decided, your choice of a American Staffordshire Terrier is, perhaps, the most rewarding of all breeds. A few suggestions will help in the purchase of your dog.
Select an AmStaff puppy that is alert and friendly, showing no signs of fear or shyness.
FINDING A QUALIFIED BREEDER
Before you begin your puppy search, ask for references from your veterinarian and perhaps other breeders to refer you to someone they believe is reputable. Responsible breeders usually raise only one or two breeds of dog. Avoid any breeder who has several different breeds or has several litters at the same time. Dedicated breeders are usually involved with a breed or other dog club. Many participate in some sport or activity related to their breed. Just as you want to be assured of the breeder’s qualifications, the breeder wants to be assured that you will make a worthy owner. Expect the breeder to interview you, asking questions about your goals for the pup, your experience with dogs and what kind of home you will provide.
ACQUIRING A PUPPY
The safest method of obtaining your puppy, even if you are not looking for a show specimen, is to seek out a reputable breeder. The novice breeders and pet owners who advertise at attractive prices in the local newspapers are probably kind enough toward their dogs, but perhaps do not have the expertise or facilities required to successfully raise these animals. These pet puppies are frequently badly weaned and left with the mother too long without the supplemental feeding required by this fast-growing breed. This lack of proper feeding can cause indigestion, rickets, weak bones, poor teeth and other problems. Veterinary bills may soon distort initial savings into financial or, worse, emotional loss.
Inquire about inoculations and when the puppy was last dosed for worms. Also check the ears, as some movement forward and signs of lifting when the puppy is alerted are good predictors of normal development.
Color is a matter of personal choice, but whatever color you prefer, your puppy should have a dark nose and, preferably, dark toenails. This is a consideration of pigmentation, which should not be confused with color. American Staffordshire Terriers come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you have your choice. For health’s sake, dark eyes are best in any color. Look for expression in your puppy’s eyes, as this is a good sign of intelligence.
Note the way your choice moves. The American Staffordshire Terrier, even in puppyhood, should show light and swift movement with no tendency to stumble or drag the hind feet. Look at the mouth to make sure that the bite is fairly even and on target to develop into the proper close scissors bite, although maturity can often correct errors present at puppyhood. If you have any doubts, ask to see the parents’ mouths. This brings up an important point—do not purchase a puppy without first seeing at least one of the parents.
Of equal importance as health and physical soundness is friendly, stable temperament. Temperament is highly influenced by genetics, so be sure to meet the pup’s parents and other dogs of the breeder’s line to ensure that you are starting out with a sound personality. Raising him right is then your responsiblity!
A COMMITTED NEW OWNER
By now you should understand what makes the AmStaff a most unique and special dog, one that will fit nicely into your family and lifestyle. If you have researched breeders, you should be able to recognize a knowledgeable and responsible AmStaff breeder who cares not only about his pups but also about what kind of owner you will be. If you have completed the final step in your new journey, you have found a litter, or possibly two, of quality AmStaff pups.
A visit with the puppies and their breeder should be an education in itself. Breed research, breeder selection and puppy visitation are very important aspects of finding the puppy of your dreams. Beyond that, these things also lay the foundation for a successful future with your pup. Puppy personalities within each litter vary, from the shy and easygoing puppy to the one who is dominant and assertive, with most pups falling somewhere in between. By spending time with the puppies, you will be able to recognize certain behaviors and what these behaviors indicate about each pup’s temperament. Which type of pup will complement your family dynamics is best determined by observing the puppies in action within their “pack.” Your breeder’s expertise and recommendations are also valuable. Although you may fall in love with a bold and brassy male, the breeder may suggest that another pup would be best for you. The breeder’s experience in rearing AmStaff pups and matching their temperaments with appropriate humans offers the best assurance that your pup will meet your needs and expectations. The type of puppy that you select is just as important as your decision that the AmStaff is the breed for you.
SIGNS OF A HEALTHY PUPPY
Healthy puppies are robust little fellows who are alert and active, sporting shiny coats and supple skin. They should not appear lethargic, bloated or pot-bellied, nor should they have flaky skin or runny or crusted eyes or noses. Their stools should be firm and well formed, with no evidence of blood or mucus.
Even at a young age, the AmStaff pup should be a sturdy little dog, with straight legs and a broad chest for his size.
NEW RELEASES
Most breeders release their puppies between seven and ten weeks of age. A breeder who allows puppies to leave the litter at five or six weeks of age may be more concerned with profit than with the puppies’ welfare. On the other hand, some breeders of show or working breeds may hold one or more top-quality puppies longer, occasionally until three or four months of age, in order to evaluate the puppies’ careers or show potential and decide which one(s) they will keep for themselves.
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