Border Terrier vs Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Terrier · Small vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the larger breed at 28–38 lbs (males) vs 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
  • The Border Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Border Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorder TerrierStaffordshire Bull Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
13–15"14–16"
Height (female)
13–15"14–16"
Weight (male)
13–15.5 lbs28–38 lbs
Weight (female)
11.5–14 lbs24–34 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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.
Low (2/5)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
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.

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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Border Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart problems

Staffordshire Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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