For those aspiring dog owners who are looking for a dog breed that’s perfect for cuddling, frequent playtime, and best companion for outdoor activities, then you may be looking for the American Staffordshire terrier! Before you misunderstand them from myths you may have read or heard from other people, the American Staffordshire terrier is actually perfect as pets due to their extreme loyalty and affection to their owners.
What Makes An American Staffordshire?
The American Staffordshire terrier is like a ball that’s always full of energy with strong muscles to run and play around with. They may be large and tough-looking, but they can be clingy and won’t hesitate to climb on your lap for hugs and cuddles. They’re naturally friendly and can be civil with meeting new people.
One thing that makes them distinctive, though, is they don’t like smaller spaces. Due to their naturally high energy levels, it’s their constant need to exercise, move around, and play as much as they can in wider spaces. They also become rambunctious and stubborn if they’re not getting enough exercise and attention.
So to keep them in good shape, here are five tips to keep your American Staffordshire terrier (AmStaff) happy, healthy, and active.
- Take Them To The Beach
As mentioned earlier, these dogs aren’t fond of small spaces. Your lawn may not even be enough for their needs. So to keep your American Staffordshire terrier happy and satisfied, take them for a trip to the beach. The beach is a perfect place for them to really let themselves go and run as far as they can. Other dog owners may also take their dogs to the beach, which means your AmStaff can freely socialize, interact, or play with them if they want to.
Furthermore, the beach sand is also a safe place for your dog to play around compared to letting them play on pavements and other concrete. The sand will serve as a cushion for their joints, so you need not worry about them when they’re having the time of their lives running and chasing around other dogs.
- Keep Them In Company
Unlike other dog breeds, the American Staffordshire terrier prefers it best to be with company. They may not feel very comfortable indoors, but they can have fun and enjoy as long as they’re indoors with their family or, specifically, with you, the one closest to them. So don’t be startled if your dog is constantly following you around the house.
For their bed or shelter, make sure you place it in a spot where he feels comfortable and he doesn’t feel alone. Moreover, ensure that the bed you pick is wide and comfortable enough to cushion their joints and keep their muscles relaxed as they need enough rest and sleep after a long day of playing and running around. You can check out dog beds online like the Bunty Pet Products Dog Beds and from other dog shops and pick the one spacious enough for your dog to sleep in.
- Play Hide And Seek With Them
The point of playing this game with them is to not only encourage more outdoor exercise but to challenge their cognitive skills. These dogs love it when they’re challenged, and it even makes them more hyper and energetic. So try playing hide and seek with them by getting them to stay put and you can quickly run and hide before calling them back again. This will surely boost their mood and enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Most of all, not only is your dog getting the exercise but so are you.
- Take Them For A Hike
AmStaffs are a perfect hiking companion. They can easily keep up with you on any trails and mountainsides you decide to hike. So if you got no one to go with you on a hiking trip, then take the AmStaff with you. It’ll be a fun experience for them, and they can also be your protector while you’re out in the woods. Better yet, you can take your dog camping too!
- Introduce Water Games
Another way to keep your AmStaff happy is by introducing them to some fun and active water games. These dogs feel naturally excited when they interact with water, be it on a pool, at a beach, or from a hose. It’s also ideal to teach your AmStaff how to swim by the time they’re six months old. From there, you can freely play water games with them, especially when the sun is up.
For instance, you can start by having an inflatable swimming pool and fill it with water. Then you can toss dog toys for them to chase, pick them out from the water, return it to you, and then repeat the cycle. Another water activity is by taking your dog with you for a boat ride. However, make sure you don’t venture too far from shore for your safety.
Takeaway
The American Staffordshire terrier is an active, energetic, intelligent, and very loyal pet. Their breed will need regular exercise to prevent them from contracting health problems or becoming obese. So try out some of these tips, and don’t forget to take your AmStaff with you when going outdoors, as not only is this best for their health, but this will also help strengthen your bond.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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