American Staffordshire Terrier vs Smooth Fox Terrier

Terrier · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • American Staffordshire Terrier is the larger breed at 55–70 lbs (males) vs 17–19 lbs for the Smooth Fox Terrier.
  • The American Staffordshire Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Smooth Fox Terrier has higher daily energy needs.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican Staffordshire TerrierSmooth Fox Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
USAEngland
Height (male)
18–19"15"
Height (female)
17–18"15"
Weight (male)
55–70 lbs17–19 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs15–17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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 Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, amusing.

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American Staffordshire Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Smooth Fox Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness