If we already have an American Staffordshire Terrier or are considering adopting one, it is very important to know the characteristics and qualities that this dog offers, to know what the most effective training methods are and how we should apply them to achieve a he althy, sociable and balanced adult dog.
In this article on our site we will give you some basic advice that you should take into account, before adopting it or now that it is your dog, in order to properly educate the Staffordshire.
Keep reading to learn more about how to train an american staffordshire terrier:
Characteristics of the American Staffordshire Terrier
Although it is not excessively large, the American Staffordshire Terrier stands out for being a dog with a compact, square build and muscular bearing. It is considered a potentially dangerous breed dog, for this reason, once it is an adult, the amstaff must always wear a muzzle and leash outside the home. Find out on our site which is the best muzzle for your dog.
Usually we talk about a calm dog inside and outside the house, and although he is somewhat shy with strangers he allows himself to be touched, caress and fondle with gratitude. The American Staffordshire Terrier has many qualities and among them we highlight his loy alty, his sensitivity when dealing with children, his patience and his vigilant attitude, he is a protective dog and a great companion.
In addition to what we have mentioned, it is necessary to add that the amstaff is a dog with medium exercise needs that, properly socialized, will get along well with other dogs and pets. Not because it belongs to the breeds considered PPP it is an aggressive dog, on the contrary, the American Staffordshire Terrier is an excellent dog and appropriate for all types of families.
Puppy Education
All dogs start learning from the moment they are born either by imitating their parents or us, depending on the case particular. If we have another well-behaved and calm dog at home, our puppy will learn all these qualities from him, although if we are not so lucky, we ourselves must be his example. Tranquility, patience and positivity must be the pillar of his education so that he reciprocates us in the same way.
It is important that before adopting an American Staffordshire Terrier (or any other dog) the whole family agrees to set guidelines and general rules such as not allowing them to get on the sofa or others, this it will depend on each person.
The fundamental pillar for to achieve a balanced dog in the future is to start as soon as possible with the socialization of the puppy. It is a gradual process in which we introduce the dog to his environment: people, dogs, other pets, etc. It is very important to carry out this stage to avoid a reactive or fearful dog in the future.
We must take precautions in this process and avoid a negative encounter so as not to cause future trauma, even so, we can affirm that the more variety finds the puppy in socialization the better it will accept it in the future.
Correct bad behaviors
If we have never had a dog before, it is important to point out that dominance techniques, excessive punishment, the use of spiked collars or physical aggression are totally inappropriateand it is that our puppy can develop very negative behaviors in the future if he suffers this type of techniques.
We must ensure our pet's well-being, physically and emotionally, for this reason it is advisable to use positive reinforcement and a simple "No" if it does something that we don't like.
Positive reinforcement is carried out by rewarding the dog's appropriate attitudes such as: sleeping in its bed, urinating in the street or having a social attitude with other pets. We don't always have to use treats (although they are a wonderful tool), we can also use caresses, kisses and even a kind word "Very good!". This technique can take time but it is undoubtedly the most appropriate and the one that will make our dog feel true love towards us.
Basic Commands
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a faithful and obedient dog, although due to its marked character it is essential that it be properly educated and at an early age thus avoiding teaching him aggressive or unsociable behaviors.
Educating a dog is more than just teaching him to sit or give his paw, it is everything related to his behavior that must be affective and positive. Teaching basic commands is a perfect tool for our dog to create a positive bond with us as well as being a technique that will make him feel useful within the family nucleus We also highlight that training an amstaff will allow us to guide their behavior and ensure their safety.
What should I teach an American Staffordshire Terrier?
When he is still a puppy it will be very important to teach him to relieve himself outside the house. It is a long process in some cases but essential for good hygiene at home.
Once he has figured out where he has to relieve himself, it will be extremely important to teach him the five basic commands for dogs: sit, stay, stretch, come here and walk next to you.
You must teach him all these commands little by little and one by one practicing every day for at least ten minutes using positive reinforcement. Making him respond correctly to your requests will help you make him feel mentally active and later rewarded by gradually realizing him in his adult stage. It will also be useful when you decide to go on an excursion, when you are washing your house, if the leash breaks… Through training commands we not only communicate with our dog, we help him in his safety.
Advanced commands
Once our American Staffordshire Terrier understands the basic commands, we can begin to teach him more options such as shaking his paw, bringing the ball, etc. Playing and teaching in a positive way will help your dog remember and apply what you teach. Remember that in addition to what we have mentioned, it is essential that you meet your dog's basic needs.
If after learning the basic commands you feel like more, we encourage you to experiment with another type of activity with your dog, such as Agility for dogs, promoting not only obedience but also physical activity.
Rides, juices and fun
The amstaff is an active, sociable and sometimes tireless dog. It is very important that you walk your dog avoiding the most frequent errors of the walk, such as pulling on the leash, among others. Being a dog with great needs for physical activity, we recommend walking him at least three times a day adding a total of 90 minuteswalk diaries.
Unlike what many people think, the walk of the amstaff (and any dog) should be relaxed and beneficial for him. You should not pressure him to walk by your side or focus on you, it is his recreation time You must allow him to move freely and explore the environment so he can enjoy. Once the walk is over and you have relieved yourself, you can dedicate time to obedience.
Finally you should know that the amstaff is a very playful dog. Until his last years of life you will be able to enjoy a very active dog, so incorporating games on the walk, house or pipi-can is essential in this race. Chasing each other, using teethers or balls are some options. Inside the house you can offer him the kong (the black one, because his jaw is very powerful) and other objects that he can nibble at will, it is something that he loves and with which he enjoys a lot.
Do you have any tips you want to share? Feel free to comment and explain what your amstaff is like!
