American Staffordshire Terrier vs Australian Cattle Dog

Terrier · Medium vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • American Staffordshire Terrier is the larger breed at 55–70 lbs (males) vs 35–50 lbs for the Australian Cattle Dog.
  • The Australian Cattle Dog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Australian Cattle Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican Staffordshire TerrierAustralian Cattle Dog
Group
TerrierHerding
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
USAAustralia
Height (male)
18–19"18–20"
Height (female)
17–18"17–19"
Weight (male)
55–70 lbs35–50 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 years12–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Australian Cattle Dog

The Australian Cattle Dog is an alert, curious, pleasant herding dog with a blue or red speckled coat — needs intense daily exercise. Originally from Australia, this medium herding breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as alert, curious, pleasant.

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American Staffordshire Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Australian Cattle Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Deafness
  • Progressive retinal atrophy