The American Standford has an imposing appearance and cruel origin as a dog used in fights, which has earned him a bad reputation for being violent and aggressive. Physically he is big, robust and strong but popular wisdom about his character is full of myths and false truths. However, as with many other races, may not be the best option for any type of owner. We tell you about its characteristics and needs so that you can discover if there can be match each other in the event that you are considering adopting an amstaff (as they are colloquially known).
Agile, strong and sociable with humans
Although, due to their original utility as fighting dogs, breeders were looking for a strong and muscular appearance, it was also taken into account that they were sociable with humans and not turn against them. In fact, any of these animals that challenged their owner, the opponent’s or the referee in the competition, was immediately disqualified and, in general, sacrificed as useless.
Once fighting was outlawed, the amstaff began to be used to defend borders, herd cattle, and as hunting companions. And they are famous for being extremely aware of its owner and display an attitude permanent alert. That is, he is always attentive to what is happening around him and is protective of his family and home. In addition, of course, to be very agile.
As we said at the beginning, it is also a dog that has a reputation for being violent and aggressive, but the truth is that for this it is necessary to previously stimulate its aggressiveness. In fact, many owners of amstaffs they affirm that it is a calm animal, good and Sociable if he is educated from a puppy.
Taking all these characteristics into account, it is not difficult to deduce that it is a breed that needs owners with previous knowledge about dogs and who, in addition, can satisfy the high demand for physical exercise, training and stimulation what do you require.
Health problems
As it is a popular breed whose massive and uncontrolled demand has reached non-professional breeders who have crossed specimens without health tests, serious inherited health problems such as cerebellar ataxia (a neurological disease) and hip and elbow dysplasias.
PPP license and civil liability insurance
Although the denomination “Dangerous Dogs” is not entirely appropriate because the breed does not determine the character, the law requires owners who want to adopt an American Stanford to obtain the License for Possession of Potentially Dangerous Dog.
This license is personal and non-transferable. Therefore, if there are several people who are going to have or walk the pet, you must all get the license. This must be requested before the arrival of the dog and is valid for five years, renewable for periods of 5 years.
Finally, it is requested to have formalized civil liability insurance for damage to third parties with coverage of not less than €120,000. Although, in some municipalities, they can request greater coverage.
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