American Staffordshire Terrier vs Great Pyrenees

Terrier · Medium vs Working · Giant

Quick take
  • Great Pyrenees is the larger breed at 100 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 has higher daily energy needs.
  • The American Staffordshire Terrier sheds less.
  • The American Staffordshire Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican Staffordshire TerrierGreat Pyrenees
Group
TerrierWorking
Size
MediumGiant
Origin
USAFrance
Height (male)
18–19"27–32"
Height (female)
17–18"25–29"
Weight (male)
55–70 lbs100 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs85 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
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 Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a patient, smart, strong-willed livestock guardian — the snowy giant of the Pyrenees mountains. Originally from France, this giant working breed typically weighs 100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as patient, smart, strong-willed.

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American Staffordshire Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Great Pyrenees health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Bone cancer
  • Heart problems