Alaskan Malamute vs American Staffordshire Terrier

Working · Large vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 55–70 lbs for the American Staffordshire Terrier.
  • The American Staffordshire Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The American Staffordshire Terrier sheds less.
  • The American Staffordshire Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAlaskan MalamuteAmerican Staffordshire Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
USAUSA
Height (male)
25"18–19"
Height (female)
23"17–18"
Weight (male)
85 lbs55–70 lbs
Weight (female)
75 lbs40–55 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is an affectionate, loyal, playful arctic freight dog — bigger and stronger than the Husky, equally fluffy. Originally from USA, this large working breed typically weighs 85 lbs and lives 10–14 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, loyal, playful.

About the American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a confident, smart, good-natured terrier — the AmStaff, larger cousin of the Staffy. Originally from USA, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 55–70 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as confident, smart, good-natured.

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Alaskan Malamute health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

American Staffordshire Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Skin allergies
  • Cerebellar ataxia