There is a lot of confusion about the XL Bully and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Some people think they are the same breed, while others believe there is a big difference.
Are you confused between the XL Bully and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier?
If you’re among the many confused people about the difference between these two dogs, then you’re in luck. This article will clear up any confusion you may have.
These two popular dog breeds may look similar, but there are some key differences that you should be aware of. We’ll guide you in deciphering the differences between the XL Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
XL American Bully vs. Staffordshire Terrier: Size
One of the most apparent differences between the XL Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier is size. When it comes to their size, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a medium-sized dog, while the XL Bully is a large dog.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier typically weighs between 35 and 40 pounds, while the XL Bully typically weighs between 70 and 120 pounds.
So, if you’re looking for a smaller dog, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a giant dog, then the XL Bully is the better option.
XL American Bully vs. Staffordshire Terrier: Temperament
Staffordshire Bull Terriers and XL American Bully are bred for companionship like the American Pit Bull Terriers. They are both gentle, loving dogs that enjoy being around people.
However, American Pit Bull Terriers, also known as American Staffordshire Terriers, are a dominant breed in the existence of the XL American Bully. As a result, the XL American Bully has many of the same characteristics.
Aggressive behavior is not expected in either breed, for both are people-oriented and highly affectionate. However, it is more likely to occur in the XL American Bully due to its large size and robust build.
American Bullies’ Inherent Behavior
These characteristics include:
- being protective of their family
- being gentle and loving with children
- being friendly with other pets
- being eager to please their owner
- being intelligent and easily trainable
Staffordshire Bull Terriers’ Inherent Behavior
These characteristics include:
Staffordshire Bull Terriers, on the other hand, are not as dominant. As a result, they are not as protective of their family and are less likely to be aggressive towards other pets.
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are also amiable and loving dogs that enjoy being around people. However, they are not as eager to please their owner as the XL American Bully is.
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are also intelligent dogs but can be stubborn and difficult to train.
XL American Bully vs. Staffordshire Terrier: Appearance
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the XL Bully look very similar regarding physical appearance. Both dogs have short, thick coats that come in a variety of colors.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier typically has a black, brindle, or blue coat, while the XL Bully can have a black, blue, fawn, or brindle coat. These popular breeds have accepted colors by the United Kennel Club.
The XL Bully also has a broad skull and chest, while the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a more narrow head and chest.
XL American Bully vs. Staffordshire Terrier: Lifespan
One feat these separate breeds have in common is their lifespan. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the XL Bully have 12-14 years.
Though their athletic build, weight, diet, training, and health issues may affect their lifespan, on average, these dogs live a long and healthy life like other animals.
These family members will provide you with years of companionship and love. So, if you’re looking for a loyal and loving dog, the XL Bully or Staffordshire Bull Terrier would make a great addition to your family.
XL American Bully vs. Staffordshire Terrier: Breed History
Tracing back to their origin and lineage, the XL Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier have a similar breed history and common ancestry.
Both dogs were originally bred in England during the 19th century. They were both bred for dog fighting, bull-baiting, and blood sports.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier comes from breeds such as the Bull Terrier, the Old English Bulldog, and the Manchester Terrier. On the other hand, the XL Bully was bred as a mix of the American Pit Bull Terrier and the English Bulldog.
Other Names for American Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier
American bullies, given that they came from the United States are also popularly known as “American Bullies.” However, they are also called “Pit Bulls” or “Pit Bull Terriers.”
On the other hand, Staffordshire Bull Terrier is commonly referred to as “Staffy” or “Staffie.”
XL American Bully vs. Staffordshire Terrier: Variations
Like any other dog breed, there are variations between the XL Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
American Bully Variations:
Standard
The Standard American Bully is the most common type. They are medium-sized dogs that weigh between 35 and 50 pounds.
Classic
The Classic American Bully is a smaller version of the Standard American Bully. They typically weigh between 30 and 40 pounds.
The Pocket American Bully is the smallest type of American Bully. They usually weigh between 25 and 35 pounds.
XL
The XL American Bully is the largest type of American Bully. They typically weigh between 70 and 120 pounds.
Aside from these, American Bully breeds can be linked with various species such as:
- The American Staffordshire Terrier
- The Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- The American Pit Bull Terrier
- The English Bulldog
- American Bulldog
- Cane Corso
- The Olde English Bulldog
Staffordshire Bull Terrier Variations:
Standard
The Standard Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the most common type. They are medium-sized dogs that weigh between 35 and 40 pounds.
Miniature
The Miniature Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smaller version of the Standard Staffordshire Bull Terrier. They typically weigh between 25 and 35 pounds.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier is also closely related to other breeds such as:
- The Bull Terrier
- The American Staffordshire Terrier
- The American Pitbull Terrier
- English Bull Terrier
The American bully breed and Staffordshire Bull Terriers are undeniably closely related. Given their shared ancestry and breed history, it’s no surprise that these two dogs share many similarities. Other dogs may be easily distinguished by their size, coat color, or build, but these two breeds can be harder to tell apart.
XL American Bully vs. Staffordshire Terrier: Diet
Diet plays a vital role in a dog’s health and well-being. Choosing high-quality food appropriate for your dog’s age, activity level, and breed is essential.
Regarding diet, there is not much difference between the XL Bully and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
When it comes to food preparation, XL bullies, like other bully breeds, often consume the following:
- Beef
- Chicken
- Fish
- Pork
- Vegetables
- Fruits
Staffordshire Terrier, like other relative breeds such as the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Bull Terrier, Pit Bulls also consume the same food items.
When it comes to food preparation, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, like other relative breeds, often consume the following:
- Beef
- Chicken
- Fish
- Pork
- Vegetables
- Fruits
Both breeds are not picky when it comes to food. They will usually eat anything that is given to them. However, it is essential to note that they should not be given table scraps as this can lead to obesity.
XL American Bully vs. Staffordshire Terrier: Health Issues
A healthy dog keeps a happy owner. That is why it is essential to be aware of the health concerns of your dog breed.
American Bully Breeds Common Health Issues
The XL American Bully, like other bully breeds, is prone to the following health problems:
Allergies
Common allergies include environmental and food allergies.
Anemia
It is a condition with a decrease in circulating red blood cells.
Anal Furunculosis
It is a bacterial infection of the anal sacs that can cause abscesses and fistulas.
Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy
It is a heart condition that can cause arrhythmias and congestive heart failure.
Cherry Eye
It is a prolapse of the tear gland in the third eyelid.
Demodicosis
It is a skin condition caused by Demodex mites.
Hip Dysplasia
A developmental abnormality of the hip joint can lead to arthritis.
Staffordshire Bull Terriers Common Health Issues
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, like other terriers, is also prone to the following health problems:
Allergies
These may include reactions to food, pollen, and other environmental stimuli.
Autoimmune Disorders
These disorders occur when the body produces antibodies that attack its tissues.
Cancer
Although any dog can develop cancer, Staffordshire Bull Terriers seem particularly susceptible to certain types of the disease, such as lymphoma and skin tumors.
Cardiovascular Disease
Staffordshire Bull Terriers may be predisposed to certain heart conditions, such as pulmonic stenosis (a narrowing of the blood vessels leading to the lungs) and congenital heart disease.
Ear Infections
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are prone to ear infections because of their long, floppy ears.
Eye Problems
Staffordshire Bull Terriers may suffer from eye problems, including cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
Also known as bloat, this is a life-threatening condition that can affect any dog but seems more common in deep-chested breeds like the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Gastric dilatation-volvulus occurs when the stomach twists on itself, trapping gas and fluid inside. It can cause the stomach to rupture and, if not treated immediately, can be fatal.
Understanding these health concerns will help you take better care of your dog and prevent or catch problems early. Regular visits to the vet, a healthy diet, and plenty of exercise will help keep your Staffordshire Bull Terrier or XL American Bully happy and healthy for years to come.
XL American Bully vs. Staffordshire Terrier: Training and Exercise Needs
Early training since puppies results to clear differences in health and behavior of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the XL American Bully.
Both pet dogs, like other popular breeds, enjoy training such as:
- Sit
- Down
- Come
- Stay
- Heel
- Weight
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is known to be more stubborn and headstrong, so they may need more patience and consistency when training. The XL American Bully is known to be eager to please and intelligent so that they may learn commands more quickly.
Both dogs will benefit from daily exercises, such as walks, runs, and playtime. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier may need more training to burn energy, while the XL American Bully may benefit from shorter, more frequent exercise sessions.
XL American Bully vs. Staffordshire Terrier: Recognition
Regarding understanding these breeds, kennel clubs are a great resource. Kennel clubs provide breed standards, which are the guidelines that describe the ideal appearance and temperament of a particular species.
The breed standard for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier:
- The Kennel Club (UK)
- American Kennel Club,
- Canadian Kennel Club
The United Kennel Club does not recognize the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
The breed standard for the XL American Bully:
- The United Kennel Club
The XL American Bully is not recognized by the Kennel Club (UK), American Kennel Club, or Canadian Kennel Club.
American Staffordshire terrier, Staffordshire terrier, and Stafford are recognized by the Kennel Club (UK), American Kennel Club, and Canadian Kennel Club but not by the United Kennel Club. Dogs owners should be aware of the differences in terminology to avoid confusion.
FAQs on XL Bullies and Staffordshire Terriers
Q: What’s the best way to train my Staffordshire Bull Terrier or XL American Bully?
A: Both dogs will benefit from daily exercises, such as walks, runs, and playtime. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier may need more training to burn energy, while the XL American Bully may benefit from shorter, more frequent exercise sessions.
Q: I think my XL American Bully/ Staffordshire Bull Terrier has hip dysplasia. What should I do?
A: If you think your dog has hip dysplasia, the best course is to take them to the vet for an examination. Hip dysplasia is a severe condition that can cause pain and mobility problems. Early diagnosis and treatment can help improve your dog’s quality of life.
Q: What are the best foods for my Staffordshire Bull Terrier or XL American Bully?
A: A healthy diet is essential for all dogs, but it’s necessary for Staffordshire Bull Terriers and XL American Bullies. These breeds are prone to obesity, so it’s vital to choose a food that is high in protein and low in fat. You should also avoid foods high in sodium, increasing your dog’s risk of developing health problems.
In Conclusion
The clear difference between Terrier and American Bully is that Terrier is purebred while American Bully is not. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are also known to be more stubborn and headstrong, while XL American Bullies are known to be eager to please and intelligent.
Lastly, kennel clubs are a great resource regarding breed standards and understanding these dogs.
May this article help you clear the confusion surrounding these two popular breeds.