is this dog good for kids?

Question
my husband came home with an 11 week old American staffordshire terrior. i had never heard of it before so i googled it. it says that it is a type of pit bull. i have a 2 and 5 year old boys. should i be concerned with this breed? a lot of people hear "pit bull" and instincts set in that they are viscious dogs and so forth, i don't want to stereotype but now it concerns my kids. so any info would be really appreciated.

Answer
Dear Jamie,

Thank you for writing to me about your new puppy.  A dog is as good as it is raised to be.  My suggestion is to read up on puppy training and work with a trainer on making your dog into a real gem.  Amstaffs can make wonderful family dogs..they need to be raised correctly which is why I urge you to work with a trainer who uses positive reinforcement.

Additionally, children should NEVER be left alone with a dog, ever, no matter what breed the dog is.

I would also recommend, contacting breed rescue groups to get more information about this breed.  I know of many families with the most wonderful Amstaffs and Pit Bulls, so don't panic. Just do your homework, know exactly how to raise a puppy successfully and monitor your children.

Best Regards,
Shelley Davis