Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Pit Bull

While the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is an AKC recognized breed, the Pit Bull isn’t technically a breed at all. In fact, the term “Pit Bull” is recognized as an all encompassing term for many of the bully breeds such as the American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Bully, American Bulldog, and even the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. But who’s who in this confusing world of Bully breed terminology? Read on to learn the true differences between a recognized Staffordshire Bull Terrier and a Pit Bull.

 

Closer Look at the Staffordshire Bull Terrier

A Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one of the smaller of the recognized bully breeds with a detailed breed standard. They are short, stout, and absolutely adorable.

• Other Names: Staffies or Staffords
• Height: 14-16 in (at the shoulder)
• Weight: 28–38 pounds (male), 24–34 pounds (female)
• Coat Color: Red, fawn, white, black, blue, brindle— plus any of these colors with white
• Coat Length: Short dense fur with no undercoat
• Build: Muscular, broad, stout
• Other Attributes: Square head, pronounced cheek muscles, natural un-cropped ears

 

Closer Look at the Pit Bull

When it comes to Pit Bulls, they have a similar appearance and build to a Staffordshire Bull Terrier— except some tend to differ in size and can be tall or lean. Although the Pit Bull is a “catch-all term”, a registered American Pit Bull Terrier or APBT is UKC recognized. The APBT breed standard stresses balance in the dog’s proportion. Meaning the dogs should be balanced with proportions of weight to height that avoid rangy, leggy dogs, or overly squat, broad dogs.

• Other Names: Pittie or Pibble
• Height: 17-21 inches (at the shoulder)
• Weight: 35-60 pounds (male), 30-50 pounds (female)
• Coat: Red, fawn, white, black, blue, brindle— plus any of these colors with white.
• Coat Length: Short dense fur with no undercoat

Breed History: A Savage Past

As with all bully breeds, these two breeds evolved from the horrible tradition of “blood sports” in the United States. Bull baiting and bear baiting were replaced by pit fighting where dogs would fight other animals for our entertainment. for humans to bet on them. Luckily, these unfathomable “sports” are illegal, but pockets of pit fighting still exist illegally here in the states.

As a result, pit bull types were bred to be well behaved around people and non-aggressive when it came to their owners— even when excited. They did, however, become known for being aggressive towards other dogs. This formerly bred-in aggression towards other dogs is still an issue when it comes to pit bullet types, that’s why it is incredibly vital that owners of bully breeds take extra care to socialize their dogs with other dogs and their owners at an early age. A well-bred, well-socialized Staffie or APBT makes for a wonderful family pet, sweet and cuddly, and great with children, other dogs and animals.

Wafer the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Collection

Teddy Jam the Pitbull Collection

 

Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Pit Bull: Temperament

Known as “the Nanny Dog” of the bully breeds, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are well-known for their patience and affection for children. They are, however, not guard dogs meaning that they will happily greet all guests as friends so as to not be overly protective of their kin.

As for their cohort, the APBT is also known to be a very friendly, affectionate bully breed. It has been noted that they tend to be more serious and less enthusiastic compared to the happy-go-lucky Staffies, but they are most definitely people dogs through and through. What’s more is that they also love the company of children and make for great family dogs with their eager to please personalities.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Pit Bull: Activity Level

Both the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and APBT are active breeds with high drive athleticism and endless energy. They are known to have inquisitive minds and enthusiasm to explore when outside or in new surroundings. However, a long, brisk walk on leash will help tire them out and give you a great workout too! If you’re a runner, it might be best to pair yourself with an APBT who can be a great jogging partner due to their longer legs. If you’re a water sport person, it might be best to look into other breeds to own as not all Staffords or APBTs like to swim. But for those who do, they are absolute sharks in the water and love to tear it up and have fun!

The Ultimate Cuddle Buddy

But at the end of the day, both Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Pit Bulls like nothing better than to curl up with their humans in a comfy space. Whether it’s sleeping next to you on the couch or curling up by your feet at the bottom of the bed (underneath the covers, of course) these pups are sweet, people-oriented, and here to please. And best of all, they're outstanding companions and make for the greatest friend you’ll ever have.

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