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 |  Staffordshire Bull Terrier |  American Bully |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | England | Developed in the United States between 1980 and 1990, the American Bully was created as a companion-focused alternative to other bully breeds. It was established by crossing the [American Staffordshire Terrier](american-staffordshire-terrier) and the [Staffordshire Bull Terrier](staffordshire-bull-terrier), with later influences from the [Bulldog](bulldog) and Olde English Bulldogge to refine the stocky, muscular build and stable temperament. |
| Group | Terrier | Utility |
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Coat | Short, smooth, close lying coat | Short, smooth, glossy and close-lying coat in various colours and patterns |
| Weight | 11 to 17 kg | 15 to 55 kg |
| Height | 35 to 40 cm | 33 to 57 cm |
| Lifespan | 12 to 14 yrs | 10 to 13 yrs |
| Exercise need | 7/10 | 6/10 |
| Affection | 10/10 | 9/10 |
| Grooming needs | 2/10 | 3/10 |
| Barking | 4/10 | 4/10 |
| Good with children | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Good with other dogs | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Trainability | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Prey drive | 6/10 | 4/10 |
| Copes alone | 3/10 | 4/10 |
| Drool | 2/10 | 4/10 |
| Shedding | 4/10 | 3/10 |
| Flat fit | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Running cost | €81 / month | €185 / month |
Staffordshire Bull Terrier verdict
A muscular, people loving terrier that thrives on closeness and firm, fair handling.
Get one if
- · Owners who want a dog that wants to be physically close at all times
- · Families with children who can supervise play sensibly
- · People willing to manage introductions to unfamiliar dogs carefully
Think again if
- · Households with small pets such as rabbits or guinea pigs, given strong prey drive
- · Owners wanting a dog that is relaxed off lead around every dog it meets
- · People who want a low maintenance dog that tolerates long periods alone
American Bully verdict
The misunderstood companion: a people-loving heart behind a powerful, athletic frame.
Get one if
- · Experienced owners who can provide confident, positive leadership
- · Families with children who can commit to early socialisation
- · Active households looking for a loyal, 'velcro' companion
Think again if
- · First-time owners unprepared for the strength and social needs of bully breeds
- · Households where the dog would be left alone for most of the day
- · Regions with strict breed-specific legislation or insurance restrictions