Hokkaido vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison

Hokkaido vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed ComparisonHokkaido is originated from Japan but American Staffordshire Terrier is originated from United Kingdom. Both Hokkaido and American Staffordshire Terrier are having almost same height. Hokkaido may weigh 22 kg / 49 pounds more than American Staffordshire Terrier. Both Hokkaido and American Staffordshire Terrier has almost same life span. Hokkaido may have less litter size than American Staffordshire Terrier. Hokkaido requires Moderate maintenance. But American Staffordshire Terrier requires Low maintenance

History

hokkaido - historyThe Hokkaido breed originates in Japan and is also called Ainu-ken, Ainu dog, Seta or Do-ken. The last being its common name in Japan. It is believed that the Hokkaido is descendent from the Japanese Matagi-ken, meaning hunting dog, deer hunting dog or bear hunting dog. It was the Ainu peoples that brought the breed to Tohoku. Many years later the Yayoi people brought in another breed of hunting dogs. These breeds were in isolation for most of their existence and therefore they had little influence on the further development of other breeds.

The Ainu dog was used in searches as well as hunting and became in 1937 “a rare species in Japan that is protected by law”. At that time the Official Name of the breed was set in place as Hokkaido-Inu. But they are still called Hokkaid0-Ken by most Japanese people.

This is a very rare breed of dog. It is hardly known outside of Japan and in country there are about ten to twelve thousand remaining. Of those about nine hundred to one thousand are registered in Japan every year. It is guessed that less than thirty exist outside Japan.

The Hokkaido breed is the oldest Japanese breed of dogs. Today they are great indoor companions, loyal and friendly. Most people in Japan still call them the Ainu dog.

american staffordshire terrier - historyThe 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

hokkaido puppy - descriptionThe Hokkaido breed is medium in size but very strong in build. Dogs bred outside Japan tend to be smaller. They have wide, deep chests, and long thick coats compared with Japanese dogs from other breeds. It is a double coat of long fur on top and short softer fur underneath for the second coat. Their ears are triangular and small while their eyes have a triangle outline. The double coat could be sesame, white, red, black, black and tan and wolf-gray.

They are an intelligent breed with an impulsive gait. They are alert, courageous and suspicious. They were used for guarding the city gates. Their skull is flat and broad and the tongue, like the chow chow, is blueish. black. With a black nose and a wedge shaped muzzle, the Hokkaido is a handsome dog. His lips are with black and tight. High set, thick tail over the back or slightly curved to the side.

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

Children friendliness

hokkaido dog - characteristicsChildren friendliness very good with every member of the family and that includes children

Special talents

They have terrific stamina and good judgement

Adaptability

Good. They can adapt to live anywhere

Learning ability

They are intelligent and anxious to learn

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

hokkaido puppies - health problemsOften breeds that are isolated like the Hokkaido, have a pretty good health history but there are a few serious issues that they face.

CEA- Collie Eye Anomaly

1/3 of all dogs have it while 2/3 are carriers. This disease is congenital and there is no cure. It affects the sclera, retina and choroid. It can be mild or it can cause blindness.

Hip Dysplasia

Affecting joints and cause arthritis and lameness.

Luxating Patella

Floating kneecap – not as prevalent here as in smaller dogs.

Heart Mumurs

Could be mild or serious. Could require a pacemaker.

Idiopathic Seizures

Seizures of an unknown origin. Can be treated with medication not cured.

Psychogenic Polydipsia

Excessive, uncontrollable urge to drink large amounts of fluid without a stimuli.

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

Feeding the puppy

hokkaido dogs - caringThe puppy needs about 300 -400 calories per day in 3-4 servings per day

Feeding the adult

The adult dog needs about 250-350 calories a day to maintain good weight and health. Feed 2-3 times per day.

Health Factors

Strong, stamina

Games and Exercises

These dogs love exercise and definitely need it. They will get to be anxious or bored if they don’t get enough exercise. A back yard run is fine but remember that the Hokkaido is a jumper and make sure your fence is at least six feet high. They need daily walks even if you have a fenced yard. Martindale collars or harnesses are needed when walking them.

These dogs love games and competitive activities. They are good at hunting and guarding of course. There are other activities they can excel at and enjoy jogging, biking with you, and hiking. In competition they enjoy and are good at agility, flyball, lure coursing, rally, weight pull, dock diving, and obedience. They do not participate in confirmation.

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.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Terrier dog
Origin:
Japan
United Kingdom
Height Male:
48 - 51 cm
18 - 21 inches
43 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
Height Female:
20 - 30 cm
7 - 12 inches
40 - 47 cm
15 - 19 inches
Weight Male:
46 - 49 kg
101 - 109 pounds
18 - 27 kg
39 - 60 pounds
Weight Female:
17 - 27 kg
37 - 60 pounds
15 - 23 kg
33 - 51 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 15 Years
12 - 16 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 7
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Ainu-ken, Hokkaido-Ken, Dō-ken, Seta, Ainu dog
Staffy • Staffie • Stafford • Staff • Am Staff • Amstaff • American Staffy
Colors Available:
black, and wolf grey, red, sesame, brindle, white
BlackBlueBrindleBrownWhiteYellow
Coat:
double coat made up of protective, coarse outer guard hairs, and a fine, thick undercoat
smooth, Single
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Docile, Energetic, Gentle, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Responsive
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

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Sakhalin Husky vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  2. Portuguese Water Dog vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  3. Puli vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  4. McNab vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  5. Porcelaine vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  6. Hokkaido vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Hokkaido vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  8. Hokkaido vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  9. Hokkaido vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  10. Hokkaido vs German Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  11. Hokkaido vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  12. Hokkaido vs Griffon Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  13. Hokkaido vs Borador - Breed Comparison
  14. Hokkaido vs German Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  15. Hokkaido vs Canadian Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  16. Hokkaido vs Finnish Lapphund - Breed Comparison
  17. Hokkaido vs Berger Blanc Suisse - Breed Comparison
  18. Hokkaido vs Griffon Nivernais - Breed Comparison
  19. Hokkaido vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  20. Hokkaido vs Griffon Fauve de Bretagne - Breed Comparison
  21. Hokkaido vs Basque Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Hokkaido vs Istrian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  23. Hokkaido vs Jamthund - Breed Comparison
  24. Hokkaido vs Karelian Bear Dog - Breed Comparison
  25. Hokkaido vs Karelo-Finnish Laika - Breed Comparison
  26. Samoyed vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  27. Labradoodle vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  28. Cane Corso vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  29. Alaskan Malamute vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  30. Mixed vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Bullmastiff vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  32. Dogue De Bordeaux vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  33. German Shorthaired Pointer vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Bloodhound vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  35. Great Pyrenees vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  36. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  37. American Staffordshire Terrier vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  38. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  39. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  40. American Staffordshire Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  42. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  43. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  44. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  45. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  46. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  47. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  48. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Bandog - Breed Comparison
  49. American Staffordshire Terrier vs American Foxhound - Breed Comparison
  50. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds