Mastiff vs Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Working · Giant vs Terrier · Medium

Quick take
  • Mastiff is the larger breed at 160–230 lbs (males) vs 28–38 lbs for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
  • The Staffordshire Bull Terrier typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitMastiffStaffordshire Bull Terrier
Group
WorkingTerrier
Size
GiantMedium
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
30"14–16"
Height (female)
27.5"14–16"
Weight (male)
160–230 lbs28–38 lbs
Weight (female)
120–170 lbs24–34 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
6–10 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Low (2/5)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.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Mastiff

The Mastiff is a courageous, dignified, good-natured giant — one of the most ancient breeds, formerly war dogs. Originally from England, this giant working breed typically weighs 160–230 lbs and lives 6–10 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, good-natured.

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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Mastiff health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Cancer

Staffordshire Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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