American Staffordshire Terrier vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison

American Staffordshire Terrier vs Basset Bleu de Gascogne - Breed ComparisonBasset Bleu de Gascogne is originated from France but American Staffordshire Terrier is originated from United Kingdom. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may grow 10 cm / 3 inches shorter than American Staffordshire Terrier. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may weigh 9 kg / 19 pounds lesser than American Staffordshire Terrier. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may live 3 years less than American Staffordshire Terrier. Basset Bleu de Gascogne may have less litter size than American Staffordshire Terrier. Basset Bleu de Gascogne requires Moderate Maintenance. But American Staffordshire Terrier requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Terrier dog
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France
United Kingdom
Height Male:
34 - 38 cm
13 - 15 inches
43 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
Height Female:
32 - 38 cm
12 - 15 inches
40 - 47 cm
15 - 19 inches
Weight Male:
16 - 18 kg
35 - 40 pounds
18 - 27 kg
39 - 60 pounds
Weight Female:
14 - 18 kg
30 - 40 pounds
15 - 23 kg
33 - 51 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 13 Years
12 - 16 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 5
5 - 10
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Blue Gascony Basset, Bleus de Gascogne
Staffy • Staffie • Stafford • Staff • Am Staff • Amstaff • American Staffy
Colors Available:
Black with white mottling and some tan
BlackBlueBrindleBrownWhiteYellow
Coat:
short and smooth
smooth, Single
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Sweet
Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Stubborn
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

History

basset bleu de gascogneThe Basset Bleu de Gascogne is an old breed and also one of the most reserved of the Basset family. The Basset Bleu de Gascogne’s history can be traced back to the 14th century, originating in the region of Gascony, France. At one time there were very few of these dogs and Alain Bourbon began doing something about this in the early 20th century, although he didn’t document his breeding practices . There are theories though and one was that he bred a few of the very first Basset Bleu de Gascognes with the Basset Saintongeois and the Grand Bleu de Gascogne.

Today the Basset Bleu de Gascogne is rarely found anywhere beyond France’s borders and there are only a few clubs for the Basset Bleu de Gascogne.

american staffordshire terrierThe American Staffordshire Terrier is a part of all the confusion surrounding the group of “pit bulls”. The American Staffordshire Terrier is directly related to the English Bull Terrier and English Terrier. The breed of the English Staffordshire Terrier was bred in the early 19th century in the West Midlands. It was not until later that the breed came from Staffordshire. These English Staffordshire Terriers are also the source of contention by breeders who insist it was the Fox Terrier, White English Terrier, Tan and Black Terrier that are the ancestors of the English Staffordshire Terrier.

These terriers (AKA pit bull terrier) came to the United States in the mid 1800’s. By the late 1890’s they were accepted by the United Kennel Club (UKC)as the American Pit Bull Terrier – a new and distinct breed. There were also some that were accepted into the AKC as the Staffordshire Terrier. In England they were still known as the American Staffordshire Terrier. When the AKC accepted the breed in 1936 they were given a new standard, new purpose and new group – the terrier. In 1969 the American Kennel Club recognized these dogs as American Staffordshire Terriers and refused to recognize the American Pit Bull Terrier. The name was changed to move the breed away from its characterization as a bull fighter and to distinguish it from the smaller English Staffordshire Terrier. All American Staffordshire Terriers are directly related to the American Pit Bull Terriers.

Description

The Most Reserved of the Bassets

basset bleu de gascogne puppy - descriptionThe Basset Bleu de Gascogne today is a striking looking hound, and is the most reserved o the Basset breeds. When you look at him, their general appearance is large but not too heavy. Long of build, his height at the withers is about 30 – 38cm, and he weighs up to 18kg.

He has short legs, thick bones, long floppy ears and dark brown, sad eyes, but is still agile and able to get around quickly. This particular Basset has a short, smooth, dense coat which is black with a white mottled pattern and some tan marking around the feet and face. You’ll most times notice black patches over his ears and sides of his head and there will typically be a white blaze on his skull.

Gentle Expression, Gentle of Nature

The attractive Basset Bleu de Gascogne is one of 6 Basset Hound breeds, and this one is an energetic, lively dog who possesses a great sense of smell. Easy to train, he slots in well with his human family, wanting to please them all the time. They just love his dark, sorrowful brown eyes and the gentle expression on his face. With his deep bark, he tries to talk to his family. He is fairly easy to train, and with socialization and training he makes an exceptional pet.

He Likes to Roam

Perhaps one aspect of the Basset family that doesn’t go down well with dog owners is their wandering nature. As a scenthound, he often gets the scent of something and wants to put his nose down and follow it. If you haven’t got a sturdy wall or fence around your property, he’ll just wander off.

american staffordshire terrier puppy - descriptionThe American Staffordshire Terrier is a strong, powerful dog – stocky, muscular and graceful. At one point in time the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier were considered to be the same breed. Even today there are those that make that argument, but they have been recognized outside the AKC as separate breeds. The AKC only recognizes the American Staffordshire Terrier and not the APBT. However – even though there have been decades of separation in breeding the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier are the very same dogs genetically.

The American Staffordshire Terrier has a broad skull, high set ears and pronounced cheek bones. Their ears should not be cropped by AKC standards and their eyes are far apart, round and dark. With a medium sized muzzle and a heavy muscular back, they are as powerful as they look, if not more so. Most have black noses. The AmStaff has a broad, deep chest with wide set forelegs and compact feet. The tail is short and tapered and it should not be docked.

Characteristics

basset bleu de gascogne dog - characteristicsThis smooth-coated breed with his low-set ears, his sad eyes, out-turned paws and gentle but intelligent pet make this dog an awesome, companionable pet. He is loyal, affectionate and devoted. They’re good with children and other pets, and can even make superb pets for older- or frail people who may lead a more sedentary lifestyle.

The Basset Bleu also sheds a bit less than their Basset Hound counterparts, although they do tend to shed throughout the year. He will require training, just like any dog really, but you don’t want to be harsh with training, as he is a gentle, sensitive dog.

Laid back, this dog which has always been an excellent hunter in days gone by, will make anyone a devoted, loyal friend.

american staffordshire terrier dog - characteristicsThe American Staffordshire Terrier is a loving, gentle dog that wants nothing more than to be with and please his people. Contrary to his reputation as a “killer”, this dog is actually a lover. They are great with children and want to be a part of the family. They even think they are lap dogs, regardless of their size. They are never going to be aggressive toward people and even though they are not one-person dogs, they are loyal, and they are devoted to the family and the “leader of the pack”.

This breed can tell who is their friend and who is not. They are not aggressive, but they will protect their own. They are courageous, confident, attentive, bold and strong-willed. The AmStaff gets along with other dogs most of the time, but they will never back down from a challenge and should never be left unsupervised with another dog. They should not be loose in a neighborhood or at a dog park. No matter how much you trust your American Staffordshire Terrier they can be killers in any fight with another dog.

In addition to this you must socialize and train your AmStaff. You need to be the pack leader and be in control. The AmStaff wants to please you so for a strong leader they will respond positively to positive training. They are intelligent and pick up quickly on what you want them to do. However, they are incredibly strong physically so training them to heel and walk with you obediently is a must. A well trained and exercised American Staffordshire Terrier is a happy dog and a loyal family dog.

Health Problems

basset bleu de gascogne puppies - health problemsA great aspect with Basset Bleus is that they have very few health issues and are quite laid back. They can easily get to 14 years of age and older with good nutrition and exercise. Nothing is set in stone however, and every breed can suddenly develop health problems.

Dogs like this with a deep chest can be prone to a condition known as gastric dilatation volvulus or bloat. This is a condition not to be taken lightly as it can be life threatening. Gastric dilatation volvulus means twisted stomach because of excessive gas or flatulence and your dog will require prompt treatment.

american staffordshire terrier puppies - health problemsFor the most part the American Staffordshire Terrier, like most of the “pit bulls” is a hearty, healthy dog. They have a few tendencies that breeders should test for including hip dysplasia, allergies, and heart issues. They can test for Cerebellar ataxia, which has affected the AmStaff with a progressive decline in their ability to control their muscles and coordination.

Caring The Pet

Coat

basset bleu de gascogne dogs - caringWith his short coat, shedding isn’t a huge issue with the Basset Bleu. He sheds seasonally and then you will definitely have to brush him at least twice a week to get rid of all that loose hair.

Slobbering

Some dog owners don’t get used to the slobbering of these dogs. Certainly, you will need to change his drinking water often because of this slobbering of his. It can result in the water containing viruses and bacteria which can cause infections in your dog.

Exercise

These dogs tend to be lazy at home, so it will be up to you to see that he gets a good quota of exercise to prevent him becoming fat and prone to more illnesses. The backs, especially with added weight, can cause problems and this kind of dog shouldn’t be encouraged to jump off beds and couches.

american staffordshire terrier dogs - caringfeed You can feed your American Staffordshire Terrier either commercially purchased food or food you make yourself if the quality is high, nutrition is good, and the amount eaten is determined by the owner. Do not free feed. The AmStaff has the tendency to become obese. Its ok to use treats for training and rewards, as long as its use is controlled.

Health issues

As previously mentioned the American AmStaff Terrier has a tendency toward a few health issues. Hip Dysplasia – this condition causes a lot of pain and disability. It leads to different types of arthritis and degenerative joint disease. Cardiac Issues – Congenital heart disease consists of vessel malformation and lesions.

Allergies

Thyroid Issues

The AmStaff can be susceptible to Autoimmune Thyroiditis. This is a form of hypothyroidism developed by dogs. It is usually seen between 2 and 5 years of age. Continual retesting is recommended.

Cerebellar Ataxia

This is the most dangerous disease possibility that the American Staffordshire Terrier faces. There is a test for this condition which causes the AmStaff to display an inability to control their muscles and a loss of balance, to the point of falling. This is a progressive disease that often leads to euthanasia. The Staffordshire Terrier Club of America suggests that AmStaffs carrying the NCL genes should never be bred.

Exercise and games

The American Staffordshire Terrier is an energetic, and athletic dog that loves to play and needs plenty of exercise. This breed is oriented to people and should never be left alone in the yard all day as a way for her to exercise. She needs you to play with her. If you cannot do this, then you should not own this breed of dog. This breed also loves to play canine sports. They thrive on games like dock diving, agility and obedience competitions. They excel at search and rescue. These are competitive dogs that want nothing more then to please their people.

Comparison with other breeds

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  5. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  9. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
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  13. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
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  20. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
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  25. Basset Bleu de Gascogne vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. American Staffordshire Terrier vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. American Staffordshire Terrier vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. American Staffordshire Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. American Staffordshire Terrier vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. American Staffordshire Terrier vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. American Staffordshire Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison