Australian Shepherd vs Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Herding · Medium vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Australian Shepherd is the larger breed at 50–65 lbs (males) vs 28–38 lbs for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
  • The Australian Shepherd typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Australian Shepherd has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Staffordshire Bull Terrier sheds less.
  • The Australian Shepherd is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian ShepherdStaffordshire Bull Terrier
Group
HerdingTerrier
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
USAEngland
Height (male)
20–23"14–16"
Height (female)
18–21"14–16"
Weight (male)
50–65 lbs28–38 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs24–34 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd is a smart, work-oriented, exuberant herding dog — actually American despite the name; needs a job. Originally from USA, this medium herding breed typically weighs 50–65 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as smart, work-oriented, exuberant.

About the Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a clever, brave, tenacious bull-and-terrier — UK's beloved 'Staffy', famously gentle with kids. Originally from England, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 28–38 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as clever, brave, tenacious.

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Australian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye problems
  • MDR1 gene mutation

Staffordshire Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye conditions
  • Skin allergies
  • Patellar luxation