With the introduction of new breeds of designer dogs, two breeds seemed to be confused with each other more often than not. The American Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier are two such breeds that tend to be lumped together, but there are actually quite a few differences between the two.
These two breeds definitely have intertwined origins but of separate breeds. Let us lead you to know the differences between these two breeds: The American Bully Breed and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Let’s compare American Bully Breeds and Staffordshire Terrier Breeds!
Confusion surrounding these two dogs has always been there due to the commonalities of these popular breeds, like any other animals of the same family. It is indeed wise to understand both dogs’ breed history, bloodline, breed variations, attributes, health issues, diet, training, and reputation.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs. American Bully – History and Origin
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier also known as “Staffy” is a British breed that was developed in the city of Staffordshire, England for fighting dogs. The Staffy was bred for dog fighting and ratting due to their tenacious and courageous nature. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the direct descendant of the now-extinct English Bulldog and terriers of that time. They were bred to be smaller than their ancestor, the English Bulldog, so they could fight in a smaller pit. These dogs were also used for bull-baiting before it was outlawed in 1835.
Bloodsports such as fighting dogs and bull-baiting became the origin of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The English Bulldog was crossbred with a terrier to create a smaller and more agile dog that would excel in these events.
American Bully
On the other hand, The American Bully was developed in the United States in the 1990s. It is a cross between the American Pit Bull Terrier and other bulldog-type breeds. The American Bully is a large, muscular dog with a short coat. They are stocky and have a wide head with erect ears.
Their build makes them look intimidating, but they are actually very gentle and good with children.
So, Staffordshire Bull Terrier was developed in England whereas American Bully was developed in the United States.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs. American Bully – Bloodline
Both dog breeds like the American pit bull terrier share a common ancestry as they both descend from the English Bulldog. But were crossbred to other dogs.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier which is commonly called the Staffy was also known as bulldog terrier, old pit bull terrier, and bull-and-terrier dog. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the direct descendant of the now-extinct English Bulldog, Olde English Bulldog, and terriers of that time.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Lineage
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier’s lineage is a bit more confusing as it was bred for fighting and ratting. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the direct descendant of the old English Bulldog and terriers of that time.
While the American Bully is a cross between the American Pit Bull Terrier and other bulldog-type breeds such as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, the English Bulldog, and the American Staffordshire Terrier.
American Bully Lineage
As a newer dog breed, the American Bully does not have as much of a documented lineage as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. However, we do know that the American Bully has genetics from Pit Bulls and Bull Terriers such as the American Staffordshire Terriers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers.
Here are the breeds that influence the American Bully:
1. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
This breed is famous for its strength, courage, and affection towards people. They are very obedient and loving, which makes them excellent family dogs. They are also very good with children. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are very active and need a lot of exercises.
2. American Staffordshire Terriers
This breed is a mix of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier. They are very similar to the Staffordshire Bull Terrier in many ways, but they are usually slightly larger.
3. English Bulldog
The English Bulldog is a very popular breed, but they are not as active as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier or American Staffordshire Terrier. They are very gentle and loving and make great family pets.
4. French Bulldogs
French Bulldogs are a small breed of Bulldog that is very popular in the United States. They are very affectionate and make great companion dogs. They do not need as much exercise as the other Bulldog breeds, but they still enjoy playing and being active.
5. Boxers
They are a medium to large breed of dog that is known for their powerful build and athletic ability. They were originally bred in Germany in the late 1800s as working dogs.
Mastiffs
One of the oldest breeds of dogs in the world. They are very large, powerful dogs that were originally bred to guard property and defend against predators. Mastiffs are very loyal and protective of their families.
So basically, Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a more direct lineage than the English Bulldog. Whereas American Bully is a crossbreed of different bulldog breeds, including the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs. American Bully – Breed Variations
1. Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breeds
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier comes in two variations which are the Standard and the Miniature.
2. The Standard Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Standard Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the more common of the two and they range in height from 14-16 inches (36-41 cm) and weight anywhere from 24-38 pounds (11-17 kg).
3. The Miniature Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Miniature Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the smaller variation of the breed and they range in height from 12-14 inches (30-36 cm) and weight between 20-34 pounds (09-15 kg).
4. The American Bully Breeds
Like its familial breeds such as the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and other Pit Bulls, American Bully comes in four variations which are the Pocket, Standard, XL, and XXL.
5. The Pocket Bully
The Pocket Bully is the smallest of the American Bully breeds and they range in height from 13-17 inches (33-43 cm) and weight picket size is under 20 pounds (09 kg).
6. The Standard Bully
The Standard Bully is the most common of the American Bully breeds and they range in height from 17-20 inches (43-51 cm) and weight anywhere from 35-50 pounds (16-23 kg).
7. The XL Bully
The XL Bully is the larger variation of the American Bully breed and they range in height from 20-23 inches (51-58 cm) and weight between 51-75 pounds (23-34 kg).
8. The XXL Bully
The XXL Bully is the largest variation of the American Bully breed and they range in height from 23 inches and up (58 cm+) with no weight limit. They are usually the heaviest of all four variations.
American bully breeds unlike other breeds may have several breed variations. But unlike other popular breeds, Staffordshire bull terriers have only two variations which are the Standard and the Miniature.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs. American Bully – Physical Attributes
Due to their common ancestry, American bullies share physical features with Staffordshire Bull Terriers. The genetic structure causing these similarities was passed down to these two by the American Pit Bull Terriers, Staffordshire Terrier, Old English Bulldog, American Bulldog, and other breed standard dogs.
Common Physical Attributes
Both dog breeds share physical qualities such as:
- Short Coats – Both American Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier have short, single coats that are easy to groom. These dogs do not require much in the way of grooming and are considered to be low-maintenance in this area.
- Muzzles – Both breeds have a short, wide muzzle that is characteristic of the Bulldog family. This feature gives these dogs their “bully” look.
- Ears – The ears of both American Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier are set high on the head and are usually cropped (or cut) short. Some breeders and owners choose to leave the ears natural, but this is not as common.
- Tail – The tail of both American Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier is thick at the base and tapers to a point. The tail is usually left natural, but some breeders and owners choose to dock (or cut) the tail short.
- Color – Both American Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier have accepted colors that are registered by the breed standard. These colors include black, blue, brindle, fawn, red, and white.
- Skull – The skull of both American Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier is large and wide with a shortstop (the point where the muzzle meets the forehead). But are considered to have a broad skull feature.
These are several physical attributes that are shared by American Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Although they have many physical similarities, there are some physical differences between the two breeds.
Different Physical Attributes
Size
One physical difference between American Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier is size. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are considered to be a medium-sized breed, while American Bullies are considered to be large. However, both breeds are compact and muscular.
Head
Another physical difference between these two breeds is the head. Staffordshire Bull Terriers have a rounder head than American Bullies. Additionally, Staffordshire Bull Terriers have a “stop” (the point where the muzzle meets the forehead), while American Bullies do not.
Legs
Another physical difference is that Staffordshire Bull Terriers have longer legs in proportion to their body than American Bullies. This gives Staffordshire Bull Terriers a more “leggy” appearance.
Size is one of the most obvious physical differences between a Staffordshire Terrier and an American Bully breed.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs. American Bully – Health Issues
These medium-sized dogs sharing Pit Bull ancestry are considered to be fairly hearty and healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health problems.
Common Health Concerns Shared by Staffordshire Terrier and American Bullies
Here are the health issues shared by the same breed:
Cherry Eye
One health concern that Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Bullies share is “cherry eye.” This condition is caused by a prolapse of the gland in the third eyelid. Cherry eye is not painful, but it can cause irritation and tear. If left untreated, cherry eye can lead to more serious problems such as glaucoma.
Cataracts
Cataracts are another health concern that Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Bullies share. Cataracts are cloudy areas in the eye that can eventually lead to blindness. Fortunately, cataracts can be surgically removed if they are caught early enough.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint. It is caused by a malformation of the hip joint and can lead to pain, lameness, and eventually arthritis. Hip dysplasia is hereditary, but it can also be aggravated by obesity.
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is a condition that affects the elbow joint. It is caused by a malformation of the elbow joint and can lead to pain, lameness, and eventually arthritis. Elbow dysplasia is hereditary, but it can also be aggravated by obesity.
Cardiac Issues
Both Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Bullies are also susceptible to cardiac issues. These problems can range from mild to life-threatening. Some of the more common cardiac issues that these breeds experience are aortic stenosis and pulmonic stenosis.
Aortic Stenosis
Aortic stenosis is a condition that affects the aortic valve. This valve regulates the flow of blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Aortic stenosis can cause the heart to work harder, which can lead to problems such as congestive heart failure and sudden death.
Pulmonic Stenosis
Pulmonic stenosis is a condition that affects the pulmonic valve. This valve regulates the flow of blood from the heart to the lungs. Pulmonic stenosis can cause the heart to work harder, which can lead to problems such as congestive heart failure and sudden death.
Other Health Concerns
Staffordshire Bull Terriers may also be affected by von Willebrand’s disease, while American Bullies may be affected by demodectic mange.
Von Willebrand’s Disease
Von Willebrand’s disease is a condition that affects the blood. It is caused by a deficiency of a protein called von Willebrand factor. Von Willebrand’s disease can cause problems with blood clotting, which can lead to excessive bleeding.
Demodectic Mange
Demodectic mange is a condition that affects the skin. It is caused by a mite called Demodex Canis. Demodectic mange can cause hair loss, itching, and skin irritation.
As you can see, there are some health concerns that Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Bullies share. However, there are also some health concerns that are specifically seen in each breed.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs. American Bully – Grooming Needs
Both Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Bullies are fairly easy to groom. These breeds only need to be brushed once or twice a week to remove any dead hair. They also only need to be bathed when they get dirty.
Some may regularly visit dog groomers for a professional clip, but this is not necessary. Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Bullies are both moderate shedders.
Grooming Needs to Provide for Staffordshire Terrier and American Bully:
- Brushing once or twice a week
- Bathing only when dirty
- Regular visits to the groomer (optional)
As you can see, the grooming needs for Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Bullies are not very different. These breeds are both easy to groom and only need to be brushed once or twice a week. They also only need to be bathed when they get dirty.
Healthy Food Diet for Staffordshire Terrier and American Bully
No matter what bad reputation on health and aggressive tendency, a dog whether it’s a pit bull, an American bulldog, Staffordshire terrier, American Pitbull terrier, or other bully breeds, these family members deserve a good and nutritious diet just like any other dog.
A well-balanced diet is important for all dogs, but it is especially important for bully breeds. This is because these breeds are prone to obesity, which can exacerbate health problems such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing food for your Staffordshire Bull Terrier or American Bully.
- You want to make sure that the food is high in protein. This is because these breeds are very active and need a lot of energy.
- You want to make sure that the food is low in fat. This is because these breeds are prone to obesity and need to watch their weight.
- You want to make sure that the food is free of artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. This is because these ingredients can be harmful to your dog’s health.
Types of Diet for Staffordshire Terrier and American Bully
There are a few different types of diets that you can choose from for your Staffordshire Bull Terrier or American Bully.
Raw Food Diet
This is the type of diet that most closely resembles what these dogs would eat in the wild. Raw food diets are high in protein and low in carbohydrates. A diet like this may include raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables.
BARF Diet
The BARF diet stands for “bones and raw food”. This type of diet is similar to the raw food diet, but it also includes some cooked foods. The BARF diet may include raw meat, bones, fruits, vegetables, and some cooked grains.
Grain-Free Diet
This type of diet is becoming increasingly popular for all dogs, not just bully breeds. Grain-free diets are low in carbohydrates and high in protein. Grain-free diets may include raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables.
Vegetarian Diet
This type of diet is suitable for dogs who are allergic to or cannot digest meat. Vegetarian diets are high in carbohydrates and low in protein. Vegetarian diets may include cooked grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Commercial Dog Food
This is the type of diet that most people feed their dogs. Commercial dog food is available in a variety of formulas, including all-natural, grain-free, and vegetarian.
Commercial Dog Food Varieties:
- All-Natural: This type of commercial dog food is made with all-natural ingredients. All-natural dog foods are typically high in protein and low in carbohydrates.
- Grain-Free: This type of commercial dog food is made without any grains. Grain-free dog foods are typically high in protein and low in carbohydrates.
- Vegetarian: This type of commercial dog food is made without any meat. Vegetarian dog foods are typically high in carbohydrates and low in protein.
Common Commercial Dog Food Brand
- Fromm Gold Dog Food
- Orijen Regional Red Dog Food
- Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dog Food
- Wellness CORE Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
When it comes to feeding these family members, Staffordshire Bull Terrier or American Bully, you have a few options. You can feed them commercial dog food, or you can make your own homemade dog food.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs. American Bully Dogs – Training and Activities
Additional to a quality healthy diet for a wonderful dog, American Pitbull terriers, American bullies, Staffordshire Terriers, and other bully breeds, require training and activities.
Training is important for all dogs, but it is especially important for bully breeds. This is because these breeds are prone to aggression and need to learn how to properly interact with people and other animals.
- Training and Activities to Keep Staffordshire Terrier American Bully healthy:
- Obedience training – This may include commands such as sit, stay, come, down, and heel.
- Socialization – This may include exposing your dog to different people, places, and situations. Bring your puppies to dog parks for early socialization and extreme tolerance training to lessen their aggressive behavior.
- Exercise – This may include walks, runs, games of fetch, and trips to a dog park. Dogs benefit from these activities including the minimization of their aggressive behavior.
- Temperament Test – This test can help you determine if your dog is suitable for activities such as agility, flyball, or obedience competitions.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs. American Bully – Reputation
Kennel clubs vary in their recognition of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Bully.
The American Bully is not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), but it is recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the American Bully Kennel Club (ABKC). Also, American Kennel clubs have different classifications for these dogs. Staffordshire Bull Terrier is classified as a terrier while American Bully is not.
Due to different breed standards, United Kennel Club (UKC) and the American Kennel Club like the other dogs and dog breeds, differ in their recognition of Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Bully.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs. American Bully – People’s Perception
With the prejudices anchored in Pit bulls and other Bully breeds of dogs, many people see these dogs as a threat. While in reality, both dog breeds are people-oriented and good for children.
I think it is safe to say that the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Bully are two of the most misunderstood breeds of dogs.
Pit bulls, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and American Bullies are often associated with aggressive behavior. However, aggression is not inherent in these breeds of dogs. In fact, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and American Bullies are actually quite people-oriented like other dogs.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs. American Bully – Price Range
Both dog breeds’ prices may vary depending on their bloodline, breeder, and location.
Here are the typical prices of these dogs:
Staffordshire Bull Terrier (Adult) – $600 to $800
American Bully (Adult) – $1000 to $3500
Puppy (SBT) – $700 to $1000
Puppy (AB) – $1200 to $3500
We might get tempted to buy a Staffordshire Bull Terrier because they are cheaper. But we should not forget that the American Bully is a newer breed and their price will gradually decrease as they become more popular.
Where To Buy Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Bully?
These dogs are available for purchase from many different sources such as animal shelters, rescue organizations, breeders, and dog stores.
When buying from a breeder, make sure to do your research to find a reputable source.
Qualities of a Reputable Breeders
A reputable breeder must possess the following:
- Deep Knowledge of the Breed – A reputable breeder should be able to answer any questions you have about the breed. They should also be able to provide information about the dog’s history and temperament.
- A Health Guarantee – A reputable breeder will offer a health guarantee for the puppies they sell. This guarantee should cover genetic defects and illnesses.
- A Contract – A contract is a good way to ensure that the breeder is reputable. The contract should state that the breeder will take the dog back if you are unable to care for it.
- A Genuine Love for the Breed – A reputable breeder should have a genuine love for the breed and its welfare. They should be able to provide you with information on how to care for your dog.
- The Ability to Produce Healthy Dogs – A reputable breeder will only breed dogs that are healthy and have no known health problems. They should be able to provide you with information on the health of the parents and grandparents of the puppy.
- The commitment to Place Puppies in Good Homes – A reputable breeder will be committed to placing puppies in good homes. They should interview you to make sure you are a good fit for the puppy. They should also provide you with information on how to care for the puppy.
There are many things to consider when choosing between a Staffordshire Bull Terrier and an American Bully. But in the end, it all comes down to personal preference.
What Makes American Bully not a Pit Bull?
Most often than not, people think that American Bully is a Pit Bull. When in reality, American Bully is not a Pit Bull.
The main difference between these two dogs is their lineage. American Bully comes from a line of American Staffordshire Terrier while Pit Bull comes from a line of English Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
Although they have a different lineage, American Bully and Pit Bull share the same ancestor which is the English Bulldog.
American Bully vs Staffordshire Bull Terrier: Which is the better family dog?
Both the American Bully and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier make great family dogs. However, there are some differences between the two breeds that you should be aware of before making a decision.
The American Bully is a relatively new breed, so there is not as much information available about them. However, they are known to be a loyal and affectionate breed of dogs that enjoy spending time with their family.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is an older breed, and they have a reputation for being aggressive. However, with proper training and socialization, they can be gentle and loving family dogs.
Final Thoughts
When choosing between an American Bully and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier, it is important to consider your own personal preferences. Both breeds make great family dogs, but they do have some differences that you should be aware of.
Do your research and talk to breeders before making a decision.
We hope this article has helped you in your decision-making process! Good luck!