The American Staffordshire Terrier is descended from American dog fighting breeds and was intended to be a show strain of the American Pit Bull Terrier. American Staffordshire Terriers were first recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1936. They are a member of the terrier and molosser groups, and are loyal, courageous, and tenacious in temperament. Though dogs of the same type have a reputation for aggressiveness, "Amstaffs" are normally friendly and gentle.