Scottish 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 19–22 lbs for the Scottish Terrier.
  • The Scottish Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Scottish Terrier sheds less.
  • The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitScottish TerrierStaffordshire Bull Terrier
Group
TerrierTerrier
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
ScotlandEngland
Height (male)
10"14–16"
Height (female)
10"14–16"
Weight (male)
19–22 lbs28–38 lbs
Weight (female)
18–21 lbs24–34 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)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
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)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.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is an independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 19–22 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, independent, spirited.

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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Scottish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Scotty cramp
  • Von Willebrand's disease
  • Bladder cancer

Staffordshire Bull Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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