Side by side
Put a few breeds side by side before you make up your mind.
Pick up to four. The URL updates as you go, so you can send this comparison to whoever you are arguing with.
| Breed |  American Staffordshire Terrier |  Bull Terrier |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United States | Developed in mid-nineteenth-century England by James Hinks, who crossed the Bulldog and terrier stock of the fighting pits with the now-extinct White English Terrier and possibly Dalmatian, producing the all-white 'gentleman's companion'. The coloured variety was recognised later, and the Miniature Bull Terrier followed as a separate standard. |
| Group | Terrier | Terrier |
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Coat | Short | Short, flat, harsh coat in pure white, or coloured: brindle, black, red, fawn and tricolour |
| Weight | 24 to 34 kg | 20 to 36 kg |
| Height | 43 to 48 cm | 45 to 55 cm |
| Lifespan | 12 to 16 yrs | 10 to 14 yrs |
| Exercise need | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Affection | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Grooming needs | 2/10 | 3/10 |
| Barking | 4/10 | 5/10 |
| Good with children | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Good with other dogs | 3/10 | 4/10 |
| Trainability | 7/10 | 5/10 |
| Prey drive | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Copes alone | 3/10 | 5/10 |
| Drool | 3/10 | 3/10 |
| Shedding | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Flat fit | 5/10 | 6/10 |
| Running cost | €76 / month | €152 / month |
American Staffordshire Terrier verdict
The people-loving powerhouse
Get one if
- · Experienced owners who will train and socialise seriously
- · Active singles, couples and families wanting a deeply affectionate companion
- · Households where the dog lives inside as part of the family
Think again if
- · First-time owners unwilling to invest in training
- · Homes where the dog would be left alone for long working days
- · Multi-dog households without very careful management
Bull Terrier verdict
The egg-headed clown with a terrier heart and a medical footnote.
Get one if
- · Experienced owners who understand terrier stubbornness and strength
- · Households wanting a devoted, physical, playful companion
- · Families with calm, respectful older children
Think again if
- · Multi-dog households unprepared for possible dog aggression
- · Homes with cats or small pets the dog has not been raised with
- · First-time owners wanting an obedient, biddable breed