The American Staffordshire Terrier vs. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier: Here’s how to tell the difference between these commonly confused breeds. (For the record, neither are Pit bulls, which is not an officially recognized breed, but rather a bit of a catch-all for bully breeds in general). Read on for the differences (appearance, personality and more!) between the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

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

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

This people-oriented dog thrives when they are made part of the family and given a job to do.

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

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. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier looks forward to daily exercise, and this breed’s powerful jaws enjoy a supply of sturdy chew toys. While this is a sweet-tempered, affectionate dog, their strength and determination require an experienced owner who can work with them in a firm but gentle way. The American Kennel Club notes that the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has “a special feel for kids.”

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s affection for its friends—children in particular—its off-duty quietness, and its trustworthy stability, makes it a foremost all-purpose dog.

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.