The distinguishing features

An American Staffordshire Terrier should radiate strength proportionate to its size. It is a strongly built dog, muscular, but at the same time agile and graceful. It is square and should absolutely not have long legs.

The shoulder height of he-dogs is usually between 45.7 and 48.4cm. For bitches this is between 43.2 and 45.7cm. More importantly, its weight must be proportionate to its height.

American Staffordshire Terriers have a short, shining coat. Essentially all colours are permitted, but black tan, liver or plain white are less popular colours. The most usual colours are smooth red and beige, with or without white spots.