American Staffordshire Terrier vs Whippet

Terrier · Medium vs Hound · Medium

Quick take
  • American Staffordshire Terrier is the larger breed at 55–70 lbs (males) vs 25–40 lbs for the Whippet.
  • The American Staffordshire Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Whippet sheds less.
  • The American Staffordshire Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican Staffordshire TerrierWhippet
Group
TerrierHound
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
USAEngland
Height (male)
18–19"19–22"
Height (female)
17–18"18–21"
Weight (male)
55–70 lbs25–40 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs25–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
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)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)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 Whippet

The Whippet is an affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too. Originally from England, this medium hound breed typically weighs 25–40 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, calm.

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American Staffordshire Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Whippet health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Heart disease
  • Eye conditions
  • Anesthesia sensitivity