American Staffordshire Terrier vs Labrador Retriever

Terrier · Medium vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Labrador Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 55–70 lbs for the American Staffordshire Terrier.
  • The American Staffordshire Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Labrador Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The American Staffordshire Terrier sheds less.
  • The Labrador Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican Staffordshire TerrierLabrador Retriever
Group
TerrierSporting
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
USACanada
Height (male)
18–19"22.5–24.5"
Height (female)
17–18"21.5–23.5"
Weight (male)
55–70 lbs65–80 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs55–70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 years11–13 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)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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 Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is america's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl. Originally from Canada, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, active, outgoing, even-tempered.

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American Staffordshire Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Labrador Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Obesity
  • Progressive retinal atrophy