The American Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier: even experienced dog lovers sometimes get them mixed up. These muscular, athletic breeds share a similar appearance and a common heritage, which contributes to the confusion.
Despite the similarities, they are distinct breeds with their own unique traits. This article will compare and contrast the American Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Pitbull, highlighting what makes each breed special.
Our goal is to give potential owners the information they need to decide which breed is the best fit for their home and lifestyle. It’s also important to note that both breeds have suffered from negative stereotypes, largely related to their history in dogfighting. Early socialization and consistent training are absolutely essential for both the American Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier.
A Shared History: Origins and Development
The American Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier share a common, somewhat checkered, past. Both breeds were developed from a mix of Old English Bulldogs and terriers, originally bred for the now-outlawed sports of bull-baiting and dogfighting.
Sadly, this history has led to some mischaracterizations of their temperament and behavior.
The American Pit Bull Terrier came directly from the Old English Bulldog, while the American Staffordshire Terrier was bred from the American Pit Bull Terrier. In 1936, the American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the American Staffordshire Terrier as its own distinct breed.
Visual Differences: American Staffordshire Terrier vs. Pit Bull
While it can be tough to tell these two breeds apart, some general differences can help you identify them.
Size and Build
Pit Bulls tend to be a little taller and more slender than AmStaffs, while American Staffordshire Terriers are usually shorter and stockier.
Here are the typical height and weight ranges for each breed:
- American Pit Bull Terrier males: 30 to 75 pounds, 17 to 22 inches tall
- American Pit Bull Terrier females: 30 to 60 pounds, 17 to 22 inches tall
- American Staffordshire Terrier males: 56 to 67 pounds, 18 to 22 inches tall
- American Staffordshire Terrier females: 56 to 67 pounds, 17 to 21 inches tall
Head and Facial Features
American Staffordshire Terriers generally have broader heads, while Pit Bulls tend to have heads that are a little more wedge-shaped.
Coat and Color
American Pit Bull Terriers can come in pretty much any color except merle. American Staffordshire Terriers come in solid colors — white, black, blue, gray, fawn, buckskin, cream, tan, red, and brindle — with or without markings. White markings can’t cover more than 80% of the body.
Temperament and Personality: What to expect
When it comes to personality, American Staffordshire Terriers and Pit Bulls share many of the same traits.
Shared traits
Both breeds are known for being loyal, loving, and energetic family dogs. They’re intelligent, watchful, alert, self-possessed, and courageous, and they’re deeply devoted to the people they love.
It’s also important to know that both breeds need early socialization and consistent training.
Key differences
Subtle differences in temperament do exist. AmStaffs are often friendlier and more welcoming of strangers, although they can be protective of their families. Pit Bulls may be more affectionate and engaging with people they know well.
In general, Pit Bulls have been known to be more dog-aggressive than Staffies, so it’s important to supervise them closely around other dogs.
The importance of socialization
With both breeds, early socialization is key. Exposing them to a variety of people, places, and situations when they’re young can help them grow into well-adjusted dogs who are comfortable around strangers and other animals. Early socialization can also help to counteract some of the negative stereotypes that have been unfairly applied to these breeds.
Training and exercise needs
Both the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Pit Bull are smart, eager to please, and generally easy to train. But both breeds also need an owner who is committed to consistent, positive reinforcement training.
Training requirements
Because Pit Bulls can sometimes be aggressive toward other dogs, they may need a little more focused training and socialization than AmStaffs. Both breeds are known to be strong-willed, so patience and consistency are key.
Exercise requirements
Both breeds need daily exercise to stay healthy and avoid destructive behaviors. A good rule of thumb is to give your American Staffordshire Terrier two walks of 20 to 30 minutes each day.
In addition to walks, both breeds enjoy active play and need durable chew toys to keep them from chewing furniture and other belongings. Fetch, agility training, and even just a good game of tug-of-war can help your AmStaff or Pit Bull burn off energy and stay happy.
Health and Care Considerations
AmStaffs and pit bulls are prone to some of the same health problems, so you’ll want to keep an eye out for these conditions.
Common Health Issues
Both breeds are susceptible to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). They also tend to gain weight easily if they’re allowed to overeat.
Diet and Nutrition
A balanced diet is key for both breeds. Be sure to monitor their food intake and adjust it as needed to prevent obesity. Those soulful eyes can be pretty convincing when they’re begging for a treat, but try to resist!
Grooming Needs
The good news is that both AmStaffs and pit bulls have short coats that don’t require a lot of grooming. A quick brushing now and then will remove any loose hair and keep their coats healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Staffordshire Bull Terrier the same as a pitbull?
This is where it gets tricky! The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is not the same as the American Pit Bull Terrier, though they share ancestry. The “pitbull” isn’t actually a specific breed recognized by major kennel clubs, but rather a term applied to dogs with similar physical traits and lineage, often including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and sometimes even the American Bully.
What two breeds make a staffy?
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s history can be traced back to a mix of the Old English Bulldog and various terriers. These crosses were bred in England to produce a smaller, faster, and more agile dog than the larger bulldogs of the time, primarily for bloodsports like bull-baiting and dogfighting.
Is an American Staffordshire Terrier a bully?
Whether an American Staffordshire Terrier is a “bully” depends on what you mean. They are part of the “bully breed” group, which refers to dogs bred for bull-baiting and other similar activities. However, that doesn’t mean they are inherently aggressive or mean. With proper training, socialization, and responsible ownership, AmStaffs can be loving and loyal companions. Their strong build and history just mean they need a confident and experienced owner who can provide the right guidance.
Key Takeaways
The American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier share a common heritage and many admirable qualities. However, they also have subtle differences in appearance, temperament, and training requirements. Before choosing one breed over the other, it’s wise to do your research and understand their specific needs.
No matter which breed you choose, responsible ownership is essential. Early socialization, consistent training, and a loving home environment are crucial for helping these dogs thrive. Responsible ownership also helps challenge negative stereotypes and promotes the welfare of these powerful dogs.
If you’re considering bringing an AmStaff or a Pit Bull into your life, think carefully about your lifestyle, living situation, and preferences. Both breeds can make wonderful companions for the right people who understand and meet their needs.