Russell 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 9–15 lbs for the Russell Terrier.
  • The Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitRussell TerrierStaffordshire Bull Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
10–12"14–16"
Height (female)
10–12"14–16"
Weight (male)
9–15 lbs28–38 lbs
Weight (female)
9–15 lbs24–34 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)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.
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 Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)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 Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier is a lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 9–15 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as lively, alert, inquisitive.

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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Russell Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness

Staffordshire Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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