Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Australian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonAustralian Shepherd is originated from United States but Staffordshire Bull Terrier is originated from United Kingdom. Australian Shepherd may grow 17 cm / 7 inches higher than Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Australian Shepherd may weigh 15 kg / 34 pounds more than Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Both Australian Shepherd and Staffordshire Bull Terrier has same life span. Both Australian Shepherd and Staffordshire Bull Terrier has almost same litter size. Australian Shepherd requires Moderate Maintenance. But Staffordshire Bull Terrier requires Low Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Terrier dog
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United States
United Kingdom
Height Male:
51 - 58 cm
20 - 23 inches
36 - 41 cm
14 - 17 inches
Height Female:
46 - 56 cm
18 - 23 inches
34 - 39 cm
13 - 16 inches
Weight Male:
25 - 32 kg
55 - 71 pounds
13 - 17 kg
28 - 38 pounds
Weight Female:
16 - 30 kg
35 - 67 pounds
11 - 15 kg
24 - 34 pounds
Life Span:
13 - 15 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 9
5 - 7
Size:
Medium
Medium
Other Names:
Aussie
bully, pit bull English Staffordshire Bull Terrier • Staffie • Staffy • Stafford • Staffordshire
Colors Available:
Tri-colour - blue, blue merle, black and red merle, white markings
black or blue, white, any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white, Red, or any one of these colours with white, fawn
Coat:
thick - medium length - straight to wavy
Smooth, short and close
Shedding:
Constant
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social
Affectionate, Alert, Courageous, Curious, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Playful, Responsive, Stubborn
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

History

australian shepherdThe Australian Shepherd, known fondly as ‘Aussies’, is actually an American breed, with the first official registry being in the 1950s. Basque Shepherds from Spain settled in Australia at the end of the 19th century, later moving to the United Stated with their dogs in tow. It is from these dogs that the breed originated. In the UK too, this breed of dog has many enthusiastic followers.

For many years, the Australian Shepherd has been recognized for their wonderful abilities as stock- or herding dogs, and today in Australia they continue to work as stock dogs and often take part in herding trials.

More recently, this working dog breed has been selectively bred to develop both Toy- and Miniature Aussies, and the American Stock Dog Registry actually recognizes 3 sizes today.The Australian Shepherd Club of America was also founded in 1957 to promote the breed.

staffordshire bull terrierThe Staffordshire Bull Terrier was first developed in the northern sections of Birmingham and in Staffordshire, England. The Staffie is a cross between a Black and Tan Terrie and the Bulldog, but had other breeds crossed in over time in order to create a bull-baiting dog and a fighting dog. In the Victorian age these sports were banned but dog fighting went underground and continues on some level today.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was exceptional at these “sports” due to his build, power and jaw strength. Today’s Staffie is a descendent of those early Bull Terrier crosses. Together with the Bull Terrier and the American Pit Bull, the Staffie also traces its roots back to those original English Bully dogs. All three breeds have the Bulldog in common.

After dog fighting and bull baiting were banned the Stafforshire Bull Terrier was further developed as a companion and pet. Still their reputation as fighting dogs cost them recognition in the official kennel clubs for some time. They finally made the UK registry in 1935, but it was not until 1974 that the American Kennel Club (AKC) accepted them.

Description

Coat

australian shepherd puppy - descriptionSimilar in appearance to the Border Collie, the Australian Shepherd is a medium sized dog and has a medium length coat which is straight to wavy with a weather resistant undercoat. The range of coat colours is amazing, and you’ll find blue, blue merle, black and red merle and all of these are with or without tan points. The Australian Shepherd is a drop-eared breed where prick ears are sometimes seen. Some Aussies are born with naturally bobbed tails while most have full, long tails.

Different Eye Colour Combinations

There is variety in the eye colour too, and they are often heterochromatic, which means that they can have two different coloured eyes or the one eye can even be bi-coloured. Most times the eyes are brown, but they can be blue too.

Description

staffordshire bull terrier puppy - descriptionThe Staffordshire is a muscular, stocky and unusually strong breed, small to medium size in height and build. They have broad, powerful chests, wide set, strong legs, strong shoulders, broad head with a fairly short muzzle. Their ears are not cropped but they are short and fold over. The coat is stiff, close and short and the tail is medium and carried low. Most Staffies are brown, but they can be red, brindle with white, fawn, black, white or blue.

Characteristics

australian shepherd dog - characteristicsThe Australian Shepherd is an intelligent dog, learning quickly. As a herding dog, he also has strong guarding instincts and will make a good watch dog. The dog has a balanced, even disposition, and even though he may show some reserve, he is certainly not a shy dog and isn’t aggressive.

He Craves Human Companionship

Your Aussie is a kind, loving, and devoted pet. He loves his human family and wants to spend lots of time with them. Don’t leave him without human companionship as he craves it and forms strong bonds with his family. Provide him with good care and with lots of fun and games and you’ve got an exceptional friend for life.

staffordshire bull terrier dog - characteristics1.Children friendliness The breed adores children but care should still be taken because they are so strong and their jaws are so powerful.

2.Special talents they adore children and they one of the most powerful jaws among canines.

3.Adaptability they need exercise and space, they are not apartment dogs.

4.Learning ability very smart, but very stubborn

Health Problems

australian shepherd puppies - health problemsAussies are a healthy breed and won’t cost you a fortune at the vet. However, like every other breed, they are also prone to certain health conditions such as cancer. When choosing a puppy, always look for a good, reputable breeder who can show you health clearances.

We look at some common health ailments to be alert about

Hip Dysplasia

This is a dog ailment that can be inherited. It is where the femur doesn't fit properly into the pelvic socket of the hip joint. Also, as the dog ages, arthritis can develop.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy an hereditary disorder where the seizures your dog gets can be treated and controlled.

Osteochondrosis Dissecans, commonly known as OCD is an orthopedic condition which comes about because of improper growth of cartilage in the joints. It can cause painful stiffening of the elbow joint for instance.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy or PRA is a degenerative eye disorder that can finally lead to blindness. Reputable Aussie dog breeders have their dogs' eyes certified regularly by a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Your Aussie Puppy Needs Vaccinations

Your newborn Australian Shepherd may well be strong and healthy, but he isn’t immune from life-threatening illnesses. Vaccinations are imperative for your Aussie puppy, with vets usually recommending that puppies be vaccinated for the first time from 6 to 8 weeks of age.

These vaccinations will include the 5-in-one and includes Parvovirus, Distemper, Hepatitis and Parainfluenza. Later on the puppy will get his first rabies shot and he will also require booster vaccinations.

The breed is basically healthy, but they do have some hereditary health issues.

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia- can cause arthritis.

staffordshire bull terrier puppies - health problems• Patella luxation otherwise known as a slipped kneecap- can cause pain and some lameness.

• Skin allergies and even a tendency toward Mange which is chronic in some forms and fatal in others.

  • Heat issues and breathing issues due to their short, compressed faces.

• Like most active dogs their size, they are susceptible to bloat which can be fatal if not treated immediately.

Caring The Pet

General Grooming

australian shepherd dogs - caringWith his medium length coat, the Australian Shepherd sheds. In fact this particular breed sheds his hair the entire year round, but you’ll notice that with the arrival of Spring, he sheds more as this is when he is losing his Winter coat. You will most certainly need to brush his coat at least 2x a week to get rid of all those tufts of hair and to also prevent matting.

Feeding

A puppy will need 4 bowls of vet-recommended food a day. How much your adult Australian Shepherd gets will depend on his age, size and activity levels.The quality of food you buy will make a difference as it will keep your Aussie in good shape. Remember to include raw or cooked meat into his diet once a week or so. For more on feeding your Aussie, speak to your vet. Always ensure a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Training and Socialization

The Australian Shepherd is a strong willed dog, used to playing the dominant role with the herding of livestock. He’ll need firm training and socialization if you want to make him an amicable family pet.

Like many herding dogs, Australian Shepherds are loyal to their family and don’t easily take to strangers. Aussies make awesome companions for families with kids who have been taught how to treat dogs and other pets with kindness and gentleness. Just like a dog needs socialization, a child needs to respect a sleeping, feeding dog and to leave him in peace.

staffordshire bull terrier dogs - caring1.Feeding the puppy Don’t over feed as he grows fast. Feed a high quality dog food for medium size puppies. Feed 1-2 and a quarter cups in 3-4 meals per day.

2.Feeding the adult Don’t exercise right before or after eating due to potential for bloat. Feed 1-2 times a day a high quality medium breed dog food.

3.Points for Good Health immense strength and power.

4. Games and Exercises They are terriers after all and they dig. Need a fairly large yard with a strong fence. They love to play ball, frisbee and can excel at cart pulling.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Australian Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  6. Australian Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  8. Australian Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Australian Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Australian Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
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  12. Australian Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
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  30. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
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  33. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison