Male vs. Female American Staffordshire Terrier: 2 Key Differences

American Staffordshire Terrier running down a road
© JakubD/Shutterstock.com

Written by Karla Lewellyn

Updated: November 18, 2023

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In General

This popular dog hails from two other breeds: the bulldog and various terriers of the early 1800s. Before the early 19th century the English bred the bulldog for the solitary purpose of baiting bulls. However, in the early 1800s, the English began breeding the bulldog with the English terrier, the black-and-tan terrier, and the fox terrier to produce what is now loved as the American Staffordshire terrier, also known as the “AmStaff.”

This well-liked breed is a muscular, intelligent, and confident companion who enjoys spending time with the families they love. Social and easy to please, the AmStaff is highly trainable. Always ready to perform a job, AmStaffs love to compete both mentally and physically. However, when it comes to male and female American Staffordshire terriers, a potential family needs to consider a few key differences.

Key Differences Between a Male and American Staffordshire Terrier

Black American Staffordshire Terrier sitting in the park

The

American Staffordshire Terrier

loves to interact with people.

©OlesyaNickolaeva/Shutterstock.com

Size

The AmStaff is considered a medium-sized dog, which is another great reason that it is a good dog for families. However, males and females vary in size. Adult males range in weight from 65-88 pounds. Conversely, adult females range from 45-68 pounds. Weight might be a consideration for this breed of dog, especially with children and smaller adults. Height differences are smaller: A male AmStaff ranges from 21-25 inches tall, and a female from 17-23 inches tall.

Temperament

While males can be more assertive, they tend to test their owners’ boundaries more than females do.

©Jay Lee / CC BY 2.0, Flickr – Original / License

Another key difference between male and female American Staffordshire terriers is their temperament. Dog temperaments can vary greatly between males and females. and this breed is no different. Since they are larger, males need more assertive training. However, males are also considered more well-rounded family dogs due to their ability to handle more variated situations. While males can be more assertive, they tend to test their owners’ boundaries more than females do.

Female American Staffordshire terriers, though, are more obedient and subservient. Although they can be more demanding, male AmStaffs are needier in terms of wanting to be by their owners’ sides at all times. One aspect of the male and female American Staffordshire terrier personality is consistent: If you want to own two of them, pick the same sex. Males get along better with other males than they do females, and vice versa.

Dog owners should consult their breeder about their AmStaff’s personality related to their lineage. As well, personality “types” will differ with each individual pup. The most important factor in determining a pet’s temperament is crucial: the pet owner. With consistent training and love, both male and female American Staffordshire terriers will be an asset to almost any family or owner!

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About the Author

Karla Lewellyn is a writer at A-Z Animals where her primary focus is on places, dogs, travel, and geography. Karla has been writing and researching for 10 years and holds a Master's degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. A resident of Tennessee, Karla loves reading, writing, and spending time outdoors in East Tennessee.

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