Welcome to Ironstone AmStaffs, Where we live for our dogs, not off of them. At Ironstone AmStaffs, we stand by the old saying: "form follows function."

 

  A true American Staffordshire Terrier should not only reflect the breed’s purpose but also be a testament to its history. We focus on quality over quantity, carefully planning each litter to produce dogs with the correct temperament and conformation.

 

   My journey with the breed began in 1998 with my long-time friend and mentor, Debra Hubbenette of Bluessence Kennel. Debra introduced me to the world of AmStaffs and guided me in showing dogs in conformation. Debra gave me the opportunity to co-own Isabelle, AKC CH Wood Forest EZ Bluessence CGC. Together Izzy and I earned her AKC conformation championship and competed Junior Showmanship. This marked the beginning of my passion for the breed. I bred my first litter of AmStaffs in 2001, and since then, I’ve only bred eighteen carefully planned litters. The goal has always been to create dogs of outstanding temperament and structure, dogs who embody both beauty and intelligence.

 

Our family has a long history in the animal world, whether it be training, breeding, or showing. My great-grandfather, John Phillips, was a thoroughbred horse breeding manager and trainer for several top stables in California, including those owned by Harry Warner of Warner Bros. My grandfather, Jim Ruggeri, was a jockey and starting gate official in Northern California during the 1950s and 60s. My great-great-grandfather, Glick, bred Beagles for hunting in the 1920s. This legacy continued with my mother, Renee, and her siblings, who all competed in 4-H, showing cattle, pigs, sheep and horses.

 

  I’ve been fortunate to learn from some of the best in the business. Kathy Miller of Sandy Oak Chesapeakes has been my mentor and friend since childhood. Her guidance in handling and training, along with her own extensive experience in the breed world, has shaped much of who I am today. Kathy introduced me to the art of showing, and my mother had the privilege of shsowing her Quarter Horses years before. I've also had the honor of learninppg fromse other esteemed mentors, including Tracy Olson of Cabaret Beagles, Marj Brooks of Manorie Dobermans, Mike Stone, Alisa Syar of Silverice Alaskan Malamutes, and many others. Their knowledge and support have been invaluable in my growth as a breeder and handler. Over the past 27 years, I’ve dedicated myself to studying the breed’s history, pedigrees, and structure. This research has shaped my understanding of what an American Staffordshire Terrier should look like and how it should behave. My goal is clear: to continue producing dogs that are not only structurally sound and intelligent but also magnificent in appearance.

 

Thank you for visiting Ironstone AmStaffs. I look forward to continuing this journey and producing exceptional American Staffordshire Terriers for years to come.