If you're interested in bringing a spirited and strong terrier into your household as a loving pet, then an American Staffordshire Terrier may be one of your options. In selecting an appropriate pet for your home, health and life typical expectancy are a couple of very important factors to consider.
About the Staffordshire Terrier
The Staffordshire Terrier is an all-American breed that is often revered for its robust and sporty trademark physique. The breed was first officially acknowledged by the American Kennel Club back in 1936, although it has a history that dates back to the 1800s. Some notable features of the Staffordshire Terrier include the prominent head, short and shiny fur, striking muscles and overall broad build. The terriers can appear in all different colors. Although dogs from the breed are typically household pets today, in the past they were frequently used for dog fighting purposes.
Typical Life Expectancy
On average, owners can anticipate Staffordshire Terriers to live between 9 and 15 years. However, all members of the breed are indeed individuals with different medical circumstances, so these numbers often greatly vary. Some Staffordshire Terriers may live less than 9 years, while others may surpass 15 years by a mile.
Health
When trying to determine a breed's general lifespan, it is important to think over some of potential health issues. Certain breeds are more susceptible to various ailments than others. Although the Staffordshire Terrier is at the core a sturdy and lively breed, some of the dogs are especially vulnerable to health issues including congenital heart disease, progressive retinal atrophy, heart murmurs, genetic cataracts and hip dysplasia. Some of these ailments may indeed have an effect on lifespan, so take note.
Diet and Exercise
A nutritionally balanced, proper diet and sufficient daily exercise are both key to making sure a Staffordshire Terrier lives as long and healthy a life as possible. These terriers may become rambunctious if deprived of meaningful physical fitness on a daily basis, whether through extensive outdoor runs or walks. Consult your veterinarian about putting together a healthy, protein-rich diet plan to suit your specific dog's needs -- and always take age into consideration.