Pit Bull and Staffordshire Terrier: the main differences

Amstaff and pit bull have similarities, due to which many confuse them and even believe that this is the same breed. This opinion is erroneous, since the dogs are different, have their own characteristics, which intersect in some respects.

Amstaff has English roots. His ancestors were bulldogs - dogs that could even cope with a bull. When the fashion for dog fights began, the bulldog was mixed with terriers, which gave the dogs lightness and agility. Crossing was carried out with a white and tan terrier, which now no longer exists. From the same breed came the bull-and-terrier, who was called the king of dog fights.

The ancestors of Amstaff in the 19th century participated in battles that took place in a pit with bulls or wild boars. Later, dogs became the rival of the breed. For these services, the American Staffordshire Terrier has earned the title of fighting.

Animals underwent special training: practiced orientation in space, dexterity, developed fearlessness, along with absolute benevolence towards people. Before the fight, any person could examine the dog, pick it up or even wash it - the animal should not be aggressive. After the battle, the dogs were also separated by people.

Many people believe that the pit bull terrier and staff are one and the same. This opinion can be understood, since the ancestors of the staff are the pit bulls, who were trained in the pit. In the 30s of the XX century, the selection of the most beautiful and balanced representatives from these pits began. So two lines of the same breed appeared. The pit bull was only a fighter, and the staff became a companion of man. Some dog handlers call Staffa a decorative branch of the pit bull terrier.

In 1936, American cynologists divided the breed into two. As a result, Stafford was registered as an independent breed and received the name by which he is known at the moment. The American pit bull terrier also became a separate breed, but its reproduction was prohibited, since fighting between dogs was not approved by law.

At the moment, the pit bull is also not registered with cynological organizations. He received recognition only in an alternative club, but he is often hired by the American police. Dog handlers are working on amstaff, trying to completely remove aggressiveness towards animals from the breed.

In the XX century, both breeds began to be in demand in the criminal world. People began to deliberately develop anger and cruelty in animals, choosing muscular and beautiful individuals.

Staff and pit are medium in size, different in power and strong skeleton. Despite the fact that both breeds are similar to each other, their differences are significant.

Other features can be observed by external data, which immediately indicates the difference between the breeds.

International Dog Training Standard The following exterior requirements are put forward.

• The height at the withers should be 40-42 cm.
• The coat can be of any color. If spots are present, there is no size requirement on them.
• On the paws are claws strictly black. The color of the lobe and eyelids can have any pigmentation, which is combined with the main color of the animal.

For this breed are nominated following requirements.

• These individuals are larger than pita. The height at the withers is 48-50 cm.
• All colors are allowed, except for white, black and tan, liver. If white spots are present on the body, their number should not exceed 80%. Otherwise, these animals are disqualified.
• The color of the claws is white, and the lobe with eyelids can only be black.
• The facial muscles are clearly defined, the cheekbones are square in shape, with a sharp outline.
• The chest is wide.
• The limbs are long.

Both breeds are not very different in character. If we make a comparison, it can be noted that the breeding of animals came from the same breed, which was endowed with powerful qualities of a fighter. Since in the past it was fighting qualities that were paid attention to, at the moment dogs are the most aggressive and cruel among other varieties.

However, anger and bloodthirstiness are the result of human manipulations with the character of the dog. Most owners of amstaffs admire the desire of pets to fight, believing that the game can be proved only in the ring. However, a game that aims to fight with other dogs can develop bloodthirstiness in a pet in relation to others.

Just because people start to train staff or pit as a bodyguard, often information appears about the attacks of this breed on a person. Most often, such information can be heard on the territory of Russian cities, because in many European countries fighting breeds can only be acquired for the police or for military structures.

Staff and pit are by nature peaceful creatures that treat children well. Four-legged friends have exceptional devotion to their master and see him as their comrade and companion. They not only love children, but adore them. They are ready to forgive the baby all his mischief, they will protect a little friend even risking their life.

Despite the love of children, it is recommended to start such a breed not earlier than the child goes to school. This is due to the fact that the dog, which has great power and activity, can inadvertently hurt a child and injure him.

Amstaff is distinguished by incredible intelligence, honesty and playfulness. The pit bull is characterized by activity, curiosity and cheerfulness. He will be happy to spend time in the house, as well as engage in sports.

The dog can perceive other animals as prey. You should immediately accustom the pet to ensure that he does not touch the animals living with him under one roof. However, even if the dog treats its housemates adequately, care must be taken that it does not chase cats, birds or squirrels.

There is a misconception that Stafford is better than pita getting along with other animals. This is not true: both representatives are endowed with a pronounced instinct for the hunter, but both can be loyal to those with whom they grew up together.

The content of the pita does not differ from the requirements for the content of amstaff. Dogs need systematic bathing along with combing. You can wash it once a month using shampoo intended for dogs, which can be bought at any pet store. Comb should be 3 times a week. With this action, you can eliminate insects and bacteria.

Both breeds can live in an apartment or a private house. Street content for the breed is unacceptable, as short hair will not survive the frost. Walking your pet in winter, you should wear a warm jumpsuit.

Mucous membranes, ears, claws should be regularly examined. Dental plaque is removed using a cotton pad dipped in a solution of boric acid. Inanimate wool is collected with a rubber mitten.

A competent upbringing can make a dog a loyal friend and protector. Both breeds need great physical exertion. Also, they do not like spacious rooms - they feel discomfort in them. Dogs should not be kept on a chain, as they become aggressive.

Amstaff is easier to train than a pit. The second can be handled by an experienced training instructor. You should not force the pet to carry out the commands - it will oppress him and he will begin to spoil objects in the house, spoil the apartment and refuse to put on a muzzle. It will be in every possible way to express their protest.

When training representatives of both breeds, the following rules should be kept in mind.

• The owner should often praise his pet. He is greedy for good words and will try for his master.
• Up to 1.5 years the dog must be socialized. During walks, she must be friendly to other dogs.
• You can’t be rude to a dog and raise your voice at her. You should remain patient and insist on your own. You can’t follow the dog who will try to gain leadership in the house.
• Aggression should be eliminated in the bud. There are no situations that would justify an aggressive attitude, because if you praise an animal once, it will constantly allow such behavior.

Many people wonder what breed is best: pita or staffa. First of all, you should decide for what purpose the pet starts up. If the owner wants to choose a promising puppy for an exhibition career, the American Staffordshire Terrier is suitable for this option, since the pit bull does not participate in exhibitions.

The price tag for the puppy will depend on the pedigree of the animal, its external data and the reputation of the nursery. Since the pit bull terrier will not have a pedigree with a promising career, its cost is significantly lower.

For people with an active lifestyle who love sports, a pit bull terrier is suitable. He is more mobile, but requires competent education in order to be adequate and educated. Lack of proper training can lead to the dog becoming uncontrollable. For a quiet category of people who do not plan an active pastime, amstaff is suitable. If you want to buy a larger animal, you should take a closer look at Staffordshire, because according to its external data it is more powerful.

Both breeds will need tenderness, attention and care, along with a solid upbringing. If the dog is not provided with such conditions and be cruel in the upbringing, the pet will turn into a bloodthirsty creature. You should be aware of this before you buy and weigh your options. To an inexperienced person, staff or pit will not work.

You can look closer at the pit bulls and Staffordshire terriers further.