Staffordshire Terrier vs Pit Bull

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American Staffordshire Terriers

American Staffordshire Terriers

Many people do not know that there is a distinction between the Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier. Although they share the Pit Bull genes‚ today, they classify as separate breeds. Staffordshire Terriers are often known as AmStaff for short. They are originated from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier but with some genetic modifications to give them a bulkier appearance and a bigger head. The American Pit Bull Terrier is said to have also originated from the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. I suppose you could say that both of these dogs are cousins of each other.

It is also interesting to note that the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not register the American Pit Bull Terrier as a recognized breed in their dog breed listing, but the United Kennel Club (UKC) does.

Staffordshire Terrier vs American Pit Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Terrier is bred for show purposes while the American Pit Bull Terrier is a non-show type dog. There is a significant difference in the size of these two dogs‚ the Amstaff is a much heavier and bulkier dog than the American Pit Bull Terrier. The Amstaff shares a more massive bone structure than its cousin the American Pit Bull Terrier.  A male Staffordshire Terrier can weigh up to 90 pounds whereas the male Pit Bull Terrier weighs around 70 pounds. You may find some Pit Bull Terriers weighing more than this, and it only means that they have a mix of another dog in them such as a Mastiff.

The Amstaff will do great in canine sports such as weight pulling, and Pit Bulls will do well in agility training.  In both breeds, the female dogs weigh slightly less than male dogs. Both breeds share good genetics and can live up to 15 years if well cared for.

Common diseases affecting both dog breeds include hip dysplasia, cataracts, and heart disease.  The Staffordshire Terrier is more prone to heart murmurs and thyroid issues. Grooming is effortless on both dog breeds‚ only a light brushing is needed every week or so. Both dog breeds are capable of producing five to ten puppies in a litter.

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Staffordshire Terrier vs Pit Bull Temperament

American Pit Bull Terriers

American Pit Bull Terriers

Both the Staffordshire and the Pit Bull Terrier are people friendly dogs. It is the dog owners responsibility to keep the dog as the lowest pack member in their family. As long as you follow this rule, they will get along with everyone in your household, including kids. Staffies and Pit Bull Terriers are both also very courageous dogs and will go to extreme measures to protect their human family. As an American Pit Bull Terrier owner myself, I know that these dogs are very protective of their owner’s property. These dogs have a high tolerance for pain so you will find some Pit Bulls not even bothered by electric fences. From what I observed, females in both breeds are more protective and stay closer to their owners than males.

Staffordshire Terrier vs Pit Bull | Which Dog to Get?

While deciding between the Staffordshire Terrier vs. Pit Bull, it merely comes down to personal preference. These are both excellent dogs that only know to love their human owners. Both dogs will return twice the love an attention that you show them.

Don’t be fooled by the media that says every dog who bites a human is a Pit Bull. I can vouch for the American Pitbull Terrier because I am an owner of one. My American Pit Bull Terrier is now eight years of age, and she has yet to bite a single human being or animal.

Ultimately, you, as the dog owner, help shape canine behavior. It is due to this fact it is much harder to train an adopted or abused adult Pit Bull vs. a Pit Bull puppy. With some persistence, nothing is impossible. I have seen many dogs from abused backgrounds that have made a full recovery.

Staffordshire Terrier Vs. Pit Bull: My Personal Favorite

I very much like the American Pit Bull Terrier compared to the muscle-bound build of the Amstaff. I also own a piece of history by owing the American Pit Bull Terrier.

Did you know that the Pit Bull Terrier served in the military during World War I and World War II?

I know of many people who love the muscle-bound look of a Staffy more, so it all comes down to personal likes. If you are into showing your dog or sports such as weight pulling, then get a Staffy. If you want a loving dog and a family companion, stick with an American Pit Bull Terrier. Both of these dogs are amazing, and please spay and neuter your dogs at a year of age to avoid unwanted pregnancies. It is heartbreaking to see that so many of these loving dogs end up in shelters. Many dogs wait a very long time for their forever homes, and if none comes forward, they are often euthanized.

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