Amstaff: A Guide to Chewing Bully Sticks

American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff)

American Staffordshire Terriers are powerful, muscular dogs with broad heads and incredibly strong jaws that came from breeding for strength and determination. These loyal, confident dogs possess some of the strongest bite forces in the medium to large dog category, combined with a tenacious personality.

Powerful Brachycephalic Bite Mechanics
AmStaffs belong to the brachycephalic--mesocephalic family; with broad, muscular heads with shortened but well-proportioned muzzles. Their skull creates exceptional mechanical advantages for bite force. Their thick temporalis muscles combined with massive masseter muscles let AmStaffs have bite forces >300 PSI—placing them among the strongest biters in the dog world.

Their dental alignment typically shows good spacing without severe crowding, but their "grip and hold" heritage means they tend to bite down with sustained pressure rather than quick, snapping movements. This sustained pressure, combined with their high bite force, makes them capable of destroying chew items that might withstand other dogs.

In Short—Which EverChew Holder?
Most adult AmStaffs will require the indestructible black nylon SuperChew holder to withstand their powerful jaws and determined chewing style. Only small puppies, senior dogs with sensitive teeth, or exceptionally gentle individuals should consider starting with the green Plus holder.

Understanding Bully Stick Benefits and Why Holders Are Essential
AmStaffs are enthusiastic chewers and that behavior serves multiple important purposes: dental maintenance, mental stimulation, stress relief, and jaw muscle exercise. Their muscular build and high energy means they benefit from having outlets for their powerful jaws, as bored AmStaffs can redirect their energy toward chewing of chair legs, door frames, car fenders, etc.

Bully sticks are pure protein treats (similar to beef jerky) that provide an ideal chewing texture for AmStaffs' powerful jaws. They're firm enough to provide satisfying resistance while gradually softening during chewing, acting like natural toothbrushes to effectively scrape away plaque and tartar buildup. The protein content also provides valuable nutrition while satisfying their natural urge to work their jaws.

Life Stage Considerations
Puppy Phase (8 weeks - 8 months): AmStaff puppies display intense chewing behaviors that combine teething relief with their developing chew instincts. Peak teething typically occurs between 3-6 months, during which they seek out firm textures to relieve discomfort. Early introduction to chews helps establish good habits and prevents fixation on inappropriate furniture.

Adult Phase (8+ months): Most destructive chewing settles around 8-12 months, but AmStaffs continue intensive chewing throughout their lives as a primary stress-relief and energy-outlet mechanism. Their guardian instincts and high intelligence mean they need consistent mental and physical stimulation to prevent problematic behaviors.

Senior Phase: Older AmStaffs maintain significant bite force even as they age, though they may appreciate slightly softer chewing options. Bully sticks provide excellent low-impact jaw exercise for maintaining muscle tone and dental health.

Selection Guidelines
Choose the Medium EverChew Plus if your AmStaff:

·         Just a baby, but expect to quickly move up to the nylon construction.

·         Is a senior dog with potentially sensitive teeth

·         Shows unusually gentle chewing behavior for the breed

Choose the Large SuperChew if your AmStaff:

·         Demonstrates typical powerful, sustained chewing

·         Has destroyed other chew toys or holders

·         Shows the classic "grip and hold" chewing pattern

·         Uses chewing for stress relief or energy management

Avoid the Small Dog holder entirely—it's not designed to withstand AmStaff jaw power.