Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Pit Bull: How They Differ

Side by side

Size: AKC gives the Staffordshire Bull Terrier 14 to 16 inches and 28 to 38 pounds for males, 24 to 34 for females. The UKC standard gives American Pit Bull Terrier males 18 to 21 inches and 35 to 60 pounds, females 17 to 20 inches and 30 to 50 pounds. Lifespan: the AKC lists 12 to 15 years for the Staffie; the UKC standard gives no lifespan figure. Coat: both are short, smooth and easy to groom.

Energy: both are high-energy, athletic dogs that need a daily walk plus running and play. Training: both are intelligent and eager but can be stubborn, and both need early socialization. With dogs: VCA warns Staffies can be dog-aggressive, and the UKC says most pit bulls show some level of dog aggression. With people: both are noted for loving children and being friendly with strangers. Best for: experienced owners with a fenced yard and no plans for dog parks.

Where the names come from

Both breeds trace back to the same history. In 19th-century England, bulldogs were crossed with terriers to combine strength with terrier tenacity, and the dogs were used in blood sports before those were banned. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier stayed close to that original type and was recognized by the AKC in 1976.

Immigrants brought bull-and-terrier crosses to the United States, where farmers and ranchers used them as catch dogs for cattle and hogs, for hunting and as family dogs. The United Kennel Club was the first registry to recognize the American Pit Bull Terrier, assigning UKC registration number 1 to an APBT in 1898. The breed does not appear in the AKC's rankings of the breeds it recognizes. In everyday speech, pit bull is also used for any muscular, broad-headed dog, which is why shelter labels are often guesses.

Size and build

The visible difference is scale. A Staffie is short and stocky, nicknamed the keg on legs, standing no more than 16 inches with a broad chest and powerful jaws. An American Pit Bull Terrier is taller and rangier, with front legs roughly equal to half its height at the shoulder. The UKC stresses balance over size and faults dogs that are excessively large or bulky.

Weights overlap at the low end: a small female pit bull at 30 pounds is the size of a large male Staffie. A big male pit bull at 60 pounds is nearly twice the weight of an average Staffie, though, and that difference matters for leash strength, car space and how easily the dog can knock over a child or an older adult.

Temperament with people and other dogs

VCA describes the Staffie as loving its family with a passion, with a legendary devotion to children, while warning that this devotion does not extend to strange dogs: a well-bred Staffie will not start a fight but will not back down from one, and VCA calls the dog park a poor idea. The UKC describes the American Pit Bull Terrier as eager to please, enthusiastic and noted for its love of children, and says aggression toward humans is uncharacteristic of the breed.

The UKC is equally direct that most APBTs show some level of dog aggression, and that their power means they need an owner who will socialize and obedience-train them carefully. Neither breed makes a good guard dog, because both tend to be friendly with strangers. Plan on controlled introductions with other dogs and close supervision with cats and small pets.

Exercise, chewing and containment

VCA rates the Staffie's exercise needs as high, with a walk every day plus some running and play, and notes that daily exercise helps curb its notorious chewing. Choose sturdy toys over flimsy, squeaky ones. Pit bulls need at least as much activity, and the UKC notes they excel at agility, dock jumping, weight pulls and obedience, which make good outlets.

The UKC also calls the APBT one of the most capable canine climbers, so good fencing is a must. Check that a yard fence is tall, solid and free of footholds. For both breeds, a secure harness and a short, strong leash are more practical than a long line in busy areas, because both are strong for their size.

Health, local rules and which to choose

VCA lists hip dysplasia, cataracts and entropion, an inward-turning eyelid, among common Staffie health issues, and advises buyers to see hip and eye clearances for both parents. VCA also notes that bully breeds are targets of breed-specific rules, so check local ordinances, rental leases and homeowner's insurance before bringing either dog home.

Choose a Staffordshire Bull Terrier if you want a compact, affectionate dog that fits a smaller home, with the caveat that it may not tolerate other dogs. Choose an American Pit Bull Terrier if you want a larger, athletic partner for sports and long outings and can commit to training and secure fencing. Either way, meet the dog first: many pit-type dogs in shelters have known temperaments that tell you more than any label.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.