American Pit Bull Terrier vs Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Your American Pit Bull Terrier would take a bullet for you but would still be a lousy guard dog. That’s because they tend to become BFFs with everyone they meet when they’re properly trained and socialized. Contrary to what you may have heard, this friendly—even goofy—breed brims over with enthusiasm for humans (even strangers), and one of their strongest desires is to please their families.

With one of these pups at your side, you should be prepared for lots of sloppy kisses and a constant shadow following you everywhere you go. You couldn’t ask for a better family companion, and their well-noted love of children is a definite plus. While untrained Pitties can have a tendency to chase after small animals like cats or squirrels (thanks to their herding history), aggression towards humans is uncharacteristic of the breed, and biting is no more prevalent than among any other type of dog. With the right amount of patience and training, your pet can live peacefully with any four-legged sibling at home, once you make the proper introductions.

Dedicated, steadfast, true—a whole thesaurus’ worth of synonyms for loyal couldn’t fully describe the level of commitment your Staffy will show you. Yes, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier does has an unfortunate history as a fighting dog, but these days, they’re better known as a fiercely faithful companion dog. These dogs are beyond devoted to their humans and would do anything to please them.

A Staffy’s temperament is boisterous and funny—they’re highly entertaining and love to make you laugh! They even have a distinctive “laugh” of their own; whenever they get excited, you’re likely to hear them erupt in a very noisy chortle.

Staffy dogs are extremely bright and practically vibrate with energy, so they need an abundant amount of both mental and physical stimulation. They’re great companions for active families and thoroughly enjoy training games, playing fetch and daily walks with plenty of sniffing opportunities. Just make sure to always keep them on a leash. With that strong prey drive, any passing critter could send them running.

If there are already multiple pets in your home, feel free to bring home a Staffy puppy; with training and socialization, they’ll be able to adapt in no time. But keep in mind that adult Staffy dogs may be more possessive, so they’re better suited as an only dog.

Staffy dogs rarely meet a person they don’t like—one of their predominant traits is that they adore human attention, whether from a family member, friend or newcomer. If you have kids at home, you’ll be happy to learn that they’re no less friendly than any other breed. In fact, their nickname in the UK is “The Nanny Dog” because of their affection for children.

The Staffy’s gentle character didn’t develop overnight; it’s the result of good breeding and a structured upbringing. Their instinct is to love, but if they’re left untrained and unsocialized, you’ll end up with Staffy ruled by undesirable behaviors.