American Staffordshire Terrier vs Pitbull: What’s The Difference
Last Updated on: 23rd February 2023, 01:32 am
The main difference between American Staffordshire terriers and Pit bulls is their breed standards.
American Staffordshire Terriers have taller, heavier frames with wider chest than pit bulls.
American Staffordshire terriers also have shorter muzzles and larger eyes, while pit bulls have longer muzzles and smaller eyes.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) considers american staffordshire terriers to be a separate breed from pit bulls, though both are descended from English bulldogs.
Key Takeaway:
- American Staffordshire Terriers are larger and heavier than pit bulls and their coats come in a variety of colors.
- Pitbulls generally have shorter muzzles with smaller eyes and a narrower build than American Staffordshire Terriers.
- American Staffordshire terriers are usually bred for companionship while pit bulls may be bred for fighting.
- Both American Staffordshire terrier and Pitbull are descended from English bulldogs.
- The american kennel club recognizes american staffordshire terriers as its own breed, while pit bulls are not.
What is an American Staffordshire Terrier
American staffordshire Terriers (ASTs) are American-bred dogs that were originally bred for fighting in the 1800s. ASTs are stocky, muscular dogs that stand between 17 and 19 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh an average of 60 to 70 pounds. Their coats come in a variety of colors, including white, black, tan, red and brindle. ASTs have a strong build but they are also known for their intelligence and loyalty.
What is a Pitbull
Pit bulls are American-bred dogs that were originally bred for bull baiting in the 19th century. They are generally smaller than american staffordshire terriers, standing between 14 and 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 40 to 65 pounds.
Check out the difference between the american terrier and the american staffordshire terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier vs Pitbull: History
American staffordshire terriers and pit bulls were both descended from english bulldogs, which were used for hunting and bull baiting in the 19th century. During the 1800s, american breeders began to develop their own versions of these dogs, leading to the american staffordshire terrier and the pitbull. Both breeds have been used as working dogs over time, but they are now more commonly kept as family pets.
American Staffordshire Terrier vs Pitbull: Similarities
Both american staffordshire terriers and pit bulls have strong personalities that make them loyal companions. They also share similar exercise needs; both need regular walks or runs to stay fit and active. Additionally, american staffordshire terriers and pit bulls have similar grooming needs and both breeds shed lightly throughout the year.
Physical Characteristics of American Staffordshire Terriers and Pitbulls
American Staffordshire Terriers and Pitbulls are both muscular, medium-sized breeds with short, dense coats. The Amstaff has a broad head and a short, powerful muzzle. Its ears are usually cropped, but can be left natural. Its eyes are usually dark, almond-shaped, and intelligent. The Amstaff has a muscular body and a long, thick tail that is usually docked.
The Pitbull has a similar appearance, but is larger than the Amstaff. Its head is slightly narrower with a longer muzzle and its ears are usually left natural. Its eyes are also dark and almond-shaped, but its body is more slender than the Amstaff’s. The Pitbull has a short, tapering tail that is usually docked.
American Staffordshire Terrier vs Pitbull: Size
The american staffordshire terrier is a larger breed than the pitbull, standing between 17 and 19 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing an average of 60 to 70 pounds. Pit bulls are typically 14 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 40 to 65 pounds on average.
American Staffordshire Terrier vs Pitbull: Temperament
American staffordshire terriers and pit bulls are both known for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong personalities. American staffordshire terriers can be a bit more stubborn than pit bulls but they still make excellent companions with proper training and socialization. Both breeds have been bred for fighting in the past so it is important that owners give them plenty of mental stimulation through training or puzzle
American Staffordshire Terrier vs Pitbull: Color
American staffordshire terriers come in a variety of colors, including white, black, tan, red and brindle. Pit bulls generally have short coats that range from black to fawn.
American Staffordshire Terrier vs Pitbull: Build
American Staffordshire terriers are stocky and muscular, with a wide chest and shorter muzzle. Pit bulls have longer muzzles and smaller eyes than American staffordshire terriers, as well as a more narrow build.
American Staffordshire Terrier vs Pitbull: Face
American Staffordshire terriers have a short, boxy muzzle while pit bulls have a longer muzzle that is slightly more pointed than the American Staffordshire terrier’s. The American Staffordshire terrier’s eyes are set wider apart than the pit bulls, which have smaller eyes that are closer together.
American Staffordshire Terrier vs Pitbull: Breeding
American staffordshire terriers are generally bred for companionship and show. Pit bulls can be used for a variety of purposes, including hunting, agility, and search and rescue.
American Staffordshire Terrier vs Pitbull: Cost
American staffordshire terriers and pit bulls can vary in cost, depending on the breeder. Generally speaking, american staffordshire terriers cost more than pit bulls as they are considered a purebred breed.
American Staffordshire Terrier vs Pitbull: Exercise
American staffordshire terriers and pit bulls both need regular exercise in order to stay healthy. American staffordshire terriers should get at least two 30-minute walks a day, while pit bulls can benefit from one to two 45-minute walks daily. Both breeds also have similar energy levels, so they will need plenty of mental stimulation as well as physical activity.
Training American Staffordshire Terriers and Pitbulls
American Staffordshire Terriers and Pitbulls are both intelligent breeds that are eager to please. They can both be trained to obey commands and can learn tricks quickly.
Training should begin as early as possible and should be consistent and positive. Training should be done in short sessions and should focus on rewarding the desired behavior. Both breeds are also prone to stubbornness, so it is important to be firm but fair.
Health Considerations of American Staffordshire Terriers and Pitbulls
American Staffordshire Terriers and Pitbulls are both generally robust and healthy breeds. However, they are both prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, allergies, and eye diseases.
It is important to have your dog checked regularly by a veterinarian to ensure that any potential health issues are caught and treated early. A good diet and regular exercise can also help prevent health problems.
