The American Staffordshire Terrier should give the impression of great strength for his size - a well put together dog, muscular but agile, keenly alive to his surroundings. He should be stocky, not long legged or racy in outline.

The Am Staff combines power with grace and agility. He is bright and alert and has boundless courage, intensely loyal and affectionate. His endless patience and great tolerance to pain makes him the perfect childrens' companion.

The breed was recognised by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1936 as the Staffordshire Terrier, and the name was changed to the American Staffordshire Terrier in 1972 to avoid confusion with the smaller Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

It was from the fighting bulldog - terrier crosses that dedicated breeders succeeded in producing a loyal, trusting, docile animal that would function well as a family pet and did not possess aggressiveness toward people or other animals.

Although they resemble one another in looks, the Am Staff and the Pit Bull Terrier should NOT be confused for one another - they are two completely separate breeds.

The Am Staff does well in the show ring, be it conformation or obedience. Their great desire to please makes them highly competitive and their happy attitude makes them a joy to watch. All in all this is a very versatile breed.