What’s the Difference Between the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier?

American Staffordshire Terrier: Loyal, Smart, Confident & Good-Natured

American Staffordshire Terrier

Courageous and strong, the American Staffordshire Terrier, aka the Am Staff, has an athletic build and intelligence that make him ideally suited to dog sports. He is often identified by his stocky body and strong, powerful head. This people-oriented dog thrives when he is made part of the family and given a job to do. Although friendly, this breed is loyal to his family and will protect them from any threat. Regular exercise and training is necessary.

At a Glance – The American Staffordshire Terrier:

• Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1936
• Ranging in size from 17 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing somewhere around 45 to 70 pounds
• General purpose dog
• Life expectancy: 12 -16 years

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier: Playful, Courageous, Brave & Tenacious

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, aka the Staffie, is a smooth-coated, active, and agile dog with great strength for his size. This is a courageous, extremely obedient, highly intelligent, and affectionate breed possessing a sense of humor. This, coupled with the breed’s affection for its friends—children in particular—its off-duty quietness, and its trustworthy stability, makes it a foremost all-purpose dog. He looks forward to daily exercise, and his powerful jaws enjoy a supply of sturdy chew toys. While he is a sweet-tempered, affectionate dog, his strength and determination require an experienced owner who can work with him in a firm but gentle way. The American Kennel Club notes that the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has “a special feel for kids.”

At a Glance – The Staffordshire Bull Terrier:

• Terrier Group; AKC recognized in 1975
• Ranging in size from 14 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder and 24 to 38 pounds
• Game sports
• Life expectancy: 12 -16 years

At a Glance: Key Differences Between the American Staffordshire Terrier and Staffordshire Bull Terrier (aka the Staffie):

Size

• American Staffordshire Terrier: Larger, typically weighs 45 – 70 pounds and stands 17-19 inches tall.
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier: Smaller, generally weighs 24 – 38 pounds and stands 14-16 inches tall.

Build

• American Staffordshire Terrier: Muscular, stocky build with a broad head.
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier: Compact, muscular frame with a distinctive, wider jaw and famous Staffie smile.

Coat

• Both breeds have short, smooth coats, but the Staffordshire Bull Terrier‘s coat comes in more accepted colours, from black, blue, fawn and white, brindle, and more.

Temperament

• American Staffordshire Terrier: Generally more confident and outgoing, can be protective.
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier: Known for being affectionate, good with families, and often more playful.

Origin

• American Staffordshire Terrier: Developed in the U.S. as a companion and show dog.
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier: Originated in England, originally bred for bull-baiting.

Lifespan

• Both breeds have a similar lifespan, around 12-16 years, but health issues can vary based on breeding practices.

Exercise Needs

• Both require regular exercise, but American Staffordshire Terriers may have higher energy levels and require more vigorous activities.

Recognition

• American Staffordshire Terrier: Recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier: Recognized by the AKC and the UK Kennel Club.

Are the American Staffordshire Terrier or the Staffordshire Bull Terrier the breeds for you? Read their full breed profiles here:

>> American Staffordshire Terrier

>> Staffordshire Bull Terrier