Activities For American Staffordshire Terriers
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Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Introduction
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a dog that is closely related to the Pit Bull, and the breed is strong and stocky. Nicknamed the "Amstaff," the American Staffordshire Terrier is a working dog. This dog enjoys spending time with their family, and they will enjoy doing things with you. The Amstaff is prone to developing osteoarthritis, so you should choose activities that will not put a great deal of pressure on the joints of the dog. In addition, because the breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, you should wait until they are at least a year of age before introducing strenuous exercise in any fashion.
Water Games
Most Popular
1 Vote
Hot Day
Cheap
Easy
60 min
Items needed
Doggy Life Vest
sturdy toys
dowel rods
Activity description
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a dog that is naturally happy in the water. Certainly, you can teach the Amstaff to swim when the dog reaches six months of age. However, there are more games that can be enjoyed by both you and your Amstaff when the sun is out and in full force. You can utilize the shallow areas of the water to throw dowel rods, and you can run along the shore for extra exercise as you play in the water. You can also train your pup to ride in a boat should you want to venture a little farther from the shore.
Step
1
Collect game pieces
First, decide exactly what type of items you'll be tossing in the water for your Amstaff. While some owners are satisfied with grabbing an old tree limb or other stick, we recommend purchasing a few dowel rods as they will not splinter and they don't break easily, which could injure your pup's mouth.
Step
2
Running on the beach
The Amstaff loves a good game of chase. However, it might be possible to cause undue joint damage by running on concrete or other pavement. This is not the case should you take a jog on the beach. The sand provides a bit of a cushion for the joints of both you and your Amstaff.
Step
3
Boating safety
Just as you would teach a child boating safety, your pup must also be taught the correct protocol for riding in the boat. You should always have your pup fitted with a doggy life vest regardless of the dog's swimming ability. Before the boating event, introduce your pal to the vest by having them wear it for short periods around the house in the days leading up to the boating fun.
Get Physical
Popular
1 Vote
Sunny Day
Cheap
Normal
45 min
Items needed
rope toy
flirt pole
Activity description
When we say "get physical," you are literally creating the play for your pup. The Amstaff is very loyal, and the pup enjoys spending time with their family members. So, in order to bond more with your pup, you can organize some playtime that will promote bonding between you and your dog in addition to getting physical activity. You can encourage your pup to chase you through the house or in the yard, if you prefer. You can utilize the flirt pole to get your dog moving. You can also use a rope toy to play a game of tug-of-war.
Step
1
Let's play chase
Your dog will enjoy a raucous game of chase initiated by you. While you might not want to play chase indoors, you can take your Amstaff out to the backyard and have a ball running together and encouraging the dog to chase you. No backyard? No problem! Take your pup to the park. Both of you will enjoy the time outdoors.
Step
2
Flirt pole
You can purchase a dowel rod and make a great flirt pole for your own use. In fact, the Amstaff is so strong that you might want to make your own simply to avoid having to spend more money on a second flirt pole. Attach a favorite toy to the end of the pole and tease your pup into a fun game of chase the lure.
Step
3
Tug of war
The naturally strong American Staffordshire Terrier will love any game that allows them to tug on something. Keep in mind that you'll need a strong rope toy. Some Amstaffs will need to be taught to "give," and you'll need to ensure that you are in control of the game at all times (even if you do let your pup "win" from time to time).
Dog Park Fun
Popular
0 Votes
Sunny Day
Free
Easy
60 min
Items needed
leash
doggy waste bags
Activity description
The Amstaff is a rather social breed, and the dog park is the perfect place for you to give your pup some exercise and practice social interaction. Many dog parks are enclosed, so you can take your American Staffordshire Terrier off their leash and allow them to run and play at will. There are often agility platforms or obstacles within the park that you and your pup can utilize for training or just for fun play. It is always a good idea to check out the park before taking your dog there, so take the time to scope it out before attending. Overall, the dog park often provides your pup with the opportunity to play with other dogs freely in a safe place.
Step
1
Read the reviews
Before you take your pup to the dog park, read reviews from local users regarding the park. Find out everything you can about the park. If possible, visit the park alone so that you can see for yourself what the park has to offer. Is there plenty of shade? Do they separate the big and small dogs into different enclosures?
Step
2
Utilize the walking area
Some dog parks have a track that you can utilize for walking. This is especially great if your neighborhood has a good bit of traffic and you don't feel confident walking your pup on the street. If the park is enclosed, you might be able to let Fido off their leash for some free-play time on the track.
Step
3
Agility exercises
The dog park often has a few pieces of equipment which can be utilized for agility exercises. You may find "boulders" which are easy to climb (for your pup). You may also find platforms that, if your pup was performing in a dog show, they would have to stop on and demonstrate the mastery of some commands. Grab some treats and coax your pup through the course.
More Fun Ideas...
Hiking
You might be surprised to find that the Amstaff is a great hiking companion. Furthermore, the Amstaff will serve as a great protector while you are out on the trail.
Swimming
The Amstaff is a natural swimmer! However, just as you would with any breed, you should start slow and ensure that your pup has a swim vest for safety. Teach your pup to swim by placing your arms under the dog's belly and ensure that the dog is paddling with all four feet.
Conclusion
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a loyal, intelligent, and fairly active dog. The breed needs regular exercise in order to avoid becoming obese; however, due to possible growth impediment issues, be sure that you do not push strenuous exercise on the Amstaff until the pup is at least one year of age. This guardian will enjoy accompanying you anywhere outdoors, and any activity in which you can promote bonding between you and your pup is good for your Amstaff's health.