Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison

Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed ComparisonAmerican Staffordshire Terrier is originated from United Kingdom but Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is originated from France. American Staffordshire Terrier may grow 9 cm / 3 inches shorter than Griffon Bleu de Gascogne. Both American Staffordshire Terrier and Griffon Bleu de Gascogne are of same weight. American Staffordshire Terrier may live 4 years more than Griffon Bleu de Gascogne. American Staffordshire Terrier may have more litter size than Griffon Bleu de Gascogne. American Staffordshire Terrier requires Low Maintenance. But Griffon Bleu de Gascogne requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Working dog
undefined
United Kingdom
France
Height Male:
43 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
48 - 57 cm
18 - 23 inches
Height Female:
40 - 47 cm
15 - 19 inches
48 - 57 cm
18 - 23 inches
Weight Male:
18 - 27 kg
39 - 60 pounds
16 - 27 kg
35 - 60 pounds
Weight Female:
15 - 23 kg
33 - 51 pounds
16 - 27 kg
35 - 60 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 16 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
4 - 7
Size:
Large
Medium
Other Names:
Staffy • Staffie • Stafford • Staff • Am Staff • Amstaff • American Staffy
Blue Gascony Griffon
Colors Available:
BlackBlueBrindleBrownWhiteYellow
Mottle white, black and grey
Coat:
smooth, Single
Longish and wiry
Shedding:
Minimal
Minimal
Temperament:
Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Stubborn
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

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.

griffon bleu de gascogneThe Griffon Bleu de Gascogne dog hails from France and is descended from crosses between the Bleu de Gascogne as well as the Griffon Nivernais. Dog experts tell us that the Grand Griffon Vendeen is also part of the mix.

Raised as working dogs, with his good nose and alertness, he has always been used as a single hunting dog or being used as part of a pack.

It was in 1920 that the first Griffon Bleu de Gascogne breed standard was written in France, and over the decades, the dog hasn’t changed much in looks except that it is slightly taller.

This is a rare breed not much seen outside of France, but breeding attempts have taken it from ‘close to extinction’ to a popular pet today.The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne was recognized by the United Kennel Club in 1991.

Description

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.

griffon bleu de gascogne puppy - descriptionThis is a medium to large sized scenthound. He stands at anything between 48 to 57cms and weighs between 16 and 27kg.

He has a long, wiry type of coat which is usually a mottled white and black, taking on a blue hue look. There are tan marking above the eyes and around the muzzle. The ears of the dog are long and floppy, he has that typical soulful look in his brown eyes and the tail is long with a curve at the point.

Temperament:

The Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is an intelligent dog breed, capable of learning quickly and therefore will do well with training and socialization.

This popular docile dog gets on well with other pets in the home as well as with children. He is alert and energetic but is known to be a loyal and loving dog, being good with children, particularly those he grew up with.

The dog isn't particularly well suited to city life simply because of his high energy. He will require a good deal of exercise, so essentially he needs a home with a fair sized garden. He will want to join you on your walks. Walks provide your pet with stimulation and are good for socializing a dog too.

Characteristics

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.

griffon bleu de gascogne dog - characteristicsYour Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is such a popular pet in France and Spain simply because he is so amicable, getting on well with everyone in the home.

He is everything that a pet lover wants – loving, protective, friendly and companionable. They get on well with other pets too and they’re easy to train, becoming super obedient. Add to that the fact that he isn’t a sickly dog and is also fairly low maintenance.

This dog has all it takes to make him the most splendid pet.

Health Problems

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.

griffon bleu de gascogne puppies - health problemsAs a healthy dog breed, your Griffon Bleu de Gascogne isn't likely to cost you much at the vet. Nonetheless there are some common dog ailments that you need to be aware of.

Some dog owners, when buying a Griffon puppy, want to see health clearance certificates to show that the parents of the puppy are free from the like of certain diseases such as hip dysplasia and von Willebrand's disease.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is a condition where your dogs thighbone doesn't fit properly into the hip joint. Your puppy can develop this condition from 4 months of age already.

With some dogs you can see the pain, and they may even become lame in one or both back legs. Hip dysplasia is hereditary, but environmental factors such as an injury or the wrong diet can contribute towards your pet succumbing to hip dysplasia.

Skin Allergies:

A skin allergy can make your pet totally miserable as they lick and scratch with discomfort, pain and irritation. All the scratching and licking can cause secondary infections and your pet can even lose his hair.

Atopic Dermatitis is when your dog is allergic to things like dust or pollen. Some people look at homeopathic treatments for dogs and are pleased with the results. The thing is you need to get help for your pet as it can cause your pet endless misery.

Caring The Pet

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.

Grooming:

griffon bleu de gascogne dogs - caringThe Griffon Bleu de Gascogne is a rough, shaggy, fairly long coated dog and is an average shedder. He will therefore require regular brushing to get rid of grass and burrs that cling to the hair, causing it to matt and tangle.It's always a good chance for you to check him over for ticks and fleas too.

He has floppy ears, so these will require cleaning to prevent infections. Check his nails too and trim them as needed. Take him to the vet for this if you're not sure how or you don't have the correct grooming tools.

Sleeping Area:

Just like his human family, a dog needs to have his own sleeping spot – a place which is warm and dry and which he can retreat too. It is a good idea to train your dog to sleep in his own place where there are some warm blankets which are clean and comfortable for him.

Diet:

You chose to bring a dog into your home, and it is therefore your responsibility to see that he is looked after well.

To keep him healthy, he will require high-quality kibble twice a day. How much your Griffon eats will depend on his age and his activity levels. Follow the feeding directions carefully on the packaging to ensure you keep him in good shape.

Remove the boredom of the same food every day by adding in some raw meat as well as cooked chicken, rice and vegetables as a tasty treat. This will keep him alert, healthy and his coat shiny. Fresh, cool water should be constantly available.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Griffon 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