Homebrew American Staffordshire Terrier Species Details

The American Staffordshire terrier, often called the “Amstaff,” has a heart of gold wrapped up in a very troubled past. These are close cousins to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a British classic. It’s not hard to mistake them as Pit Bulls, and for good reason. The Amstaff too was used as a fighting dog. However, responsible breeders now produce many sweet companions.

These dogs look as strong as they are. Although smaller than most fighting dogs, they are still squat and thickly muscled, with rippling muscles barely concealed by their smooth, short coats. The Amstaff comes in many colors, including black, blue, fawn, and brindle.

Protective Abilities

This breed has turned itself around from a difficult past. Today, Amstaff should not be used for protection, despite their ability to fight. They should always be kept inside the house and allowed to bond with the family. These dogs also require early socialization to make sure that they do not become aggressive, especially with strange dogs.

That being said, many individuals have a strong protective instinct. It is important to solidify their sweet nature through obedience and socialization training so that this side of them only comes out if absolutely necessary.

These dogs are not usually difficult to train. They are very happy around their owners, and enjoy learning from them. If you are able to maintain positivity, you will see quick results with your Amstaff. Some individuals even excel in tough jobs, like search and rescue. Ample praise is a great reward for these social dogs.

Ideal Home

These dogs may be well suited to athletic owners who they can join for hikes, jogs, and bike rides. However, it is important to commit to spending enough time. This is not a breed for single owners who leave the house for work all day every day.

The Amstaff will do well with children, and can get along with other family pets as long as they are properly socialized.

Survival of the Fittest

Exercise is important to keep the Amstaff healthy.

Try to give these dogs at least one vigorous walk per day. Challenging terrain can help them develop healthy muscle tone. They can easily keep up on hikes, and may also enjoy faster paces, like jogs or bike rides.

At home, this breed does best with a yard. They can vent excess energy here, and it leaves plenty of room for fun games. Many Amstaff enjoy tug of war, Frisbee, and fetch. These dogs are usually quite gentle when well trained and can safely play with older children.

 

American Staffordshire Terrier Traits

Goliaths share a number of traits in common with each other.

Ability Score Increase

Your Strength score increases by 2, and your Constitution score increases by 1.

Age

They are fairly healthy, though it is important to maintain their physical fitness and help them avoid obesity. The Amstaff can be expected to live between 12 and 16 years.

Size

These dogs stand between 17 and 19 inches at the shoulder, but can weigh anywhere between 40 and 70 pounds.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 35 feet.

Natural Athlete

You have proficiency in the Athletics skill.

Puppers Endurance

You can focus yourself to occasionally shrug off injury. When you take damage, you can use your reaction to roll a d12. Add your Constitution modifier to the number rolled and reduce the damage by that total. After you use this trait, you can’t use it again until you finish a short or long rest.

Powerful Build

You count as one size larger when determining your carrying capacity and the weight you can push, drag, or lift.

Languages

You can speak, read, and write Bork and Scentscript.