American Staffordshire Terrier vs Scottish Terrier Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Staffy or Scottie?

Compare the American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Staffy or a Scottie? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Amstaff, Staffy, Stafford

Scottie, Aberdeenie

Weight

What is the average weight of American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier?

45.0 pounds ( 20 kg )

20.5 pounds ( 9 kg )

Height

What is the average height of American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier

18.5 inches ( 47 cm )

10.5 inches ( 26.7 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier?

American Staffordshire Terrier has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.

Scottish Terrier has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are American Staffordshire Terriers or Scottish Terriers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, the American Staffordshire Terrier is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Yes

While no dogs are truly 100% hypoallergenic, Scottish Terriers are about as close as it gets, making them an ideal pet if you are an allergy sufferer.

Temperament

What are the personalities of American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier dogs?

Attentive
Devoted
Loyal
Intelligent
Courageous
Friendly
Tenacious

Independent
Alert
Quick
Playful
Selfish

Shedding Level

Do American Staffordshire Terriers shed more than Scottish Terriers, or which breed sheds more, American Staffordshire Terriers or Scottish Terriers?

American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier?

The American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.

Origin

What is the origin of American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier dog breeds?

United States

Scotland

Ancestry

What are the origins of American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier breeds?

bull terrier, mastiff

skye, cairn, west highland white terriers

Date of Birth

When were American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier breeds first developed?

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier?

Terrier (AKC:1936)

Terrier (AKC:1885 & UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier dogs?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier?

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier breeds?

Black
Brown
Red
Cream
Fawn
Blue
White
Pied
Sable
Brindle

Black
Brindle

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier breeds?

American Staffordshire Terriers have short coats.

Scottish Terriers have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier?

Straight

Wiry

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier?

12-14 puppies per pregnancy

An American Staffordshire Terrier can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

11-13 puppies per pregnancy

A Scottish Terrier can have a litter of 11-13 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier dogs generally have an average level of adaptability when it comes to adjusting to changes in lifestyle and different living environments compared to other breeds.

Health Issues

Between American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?

While the American Staffordshire Terrier breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Scottish Terriers typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier breeds?

Heart Conditions

Von Willebrand's Disease
Craniomandibular Osteopathy

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier?

Patellar Luxation
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism
Bladder Stones

Scottie Cramp
Intervertebral Disc Disease

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier breeds?

Blood And Urine Protein Screens
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays

Dna For Vwd
X-Rays
MRI
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of American Staffordshire Terriers and Scottish Terriers compare?

American Staffordshire Terriers are suitable for those with a balanced lifestyle as they have an average energy level.

Scottish Terriers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

American Staffordshire Terrier vs Scottish Terrier social needs comparison

American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

American Staffordshire Terrier vs Scottish Terrier exercise need comparison.

American Staffordshire Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Scottish Terriers need moderate physical activity and are great for families and active individuals.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier?

American Staffordshire Terriers have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Scottish Terriers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier?

American Staffordshire Terrier is an average drooler, monitor for excessive drooling which may indicate health issues.

Scottish Terrier minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do American Staffordshire Terriers or Scottish Terriers bark more/less frequently?

American Staffordshire Terriers bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Scottish Terriers are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

Territorial

Is the American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier a better guard dog?

While American Staffordshire Terrier dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Scottish Terrier dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: American Staffordshire Terrier vs Scottish Terrier?

Roaming urge

American Staffordshire Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier entertained?

Playdate, Boat ride, Walk, Run, Catch treats, Play keep away, Play, Shake, Chase, Fetch, Flyball, Dog Parks, Mushing, Dressing up, Yoga, Swim, Snuggles, Kisses, Petting, Walking, Chewing, Ball, Sniffing, Cuddling, Running, Playing, Cuddles, Pets, Getting treats, Frisbee

Fetch

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, American Staffordshire Terriers or Scottish Terriers?

Medium

Both American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier walk each week?

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For American Staffordshire Terrier, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

6 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Scottish Terrier, it's at least 6 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do American Staffordshire Terriers or Scottish Terriers require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most American Staffordshire Terriers usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

30 minutes

In general most Scottish Terriers usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, American Staffordshire Terriers or Scottish Terriers?

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

The Scottish Terrier requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier dogs?

Weekly

American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for American Staffordshire Terriers and Scottish Terriers?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Comb
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier in cups?

2.5 cups

For an average 40-50 pound (18 - 23 kg) American Staffordshire Terrier feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

0.8 cups

For an average 19-22 pound (9 - 10 kg) Scottish Terrier feed 0.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier?

$2.80 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of an American Staffordshire Terrier is somewhere $2.80 - $3.20 per day.

$1.20 - $1.40 / day

The average cost of a Scottish Terrier is somewhere $1.20 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier?

$74 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of an American Staffordshire Terrier is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$35 - $42 / month

The average per month expenses of a Scottish Terrier is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: American Staffordshire Terriers vs Scottish Terriers

American Staffordshire Terrier is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Scottish Terrier has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.

Sensitivity Level

How do American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier compare in sensitivity?

American Staffordshire Terriers have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: American Staffordshire Terrier vs Scottish Terrier?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier?

American Staffordshire Terriers can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Scottish Terriers make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do American Staffordshire Terriers or Scottish Terriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier are kid-friendly dogs. They are good with children and excellent dogs with children if they are socialized and trained at a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier?

Cat Friendly

Do American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

American Staffordshire Terriers are not cat friendly.

Scottish Terriers are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier?

American Staffordshire Terriers are not dog-friendly.

Scottish Terriers are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: American Staffordshire Terrier or Scottish Terrier?

American Staffordshire Terriers are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Scottish Terriers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between American Staffordshire Terrier and Scottish Terrier?

American Staffordshire Terriers are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Scottish Terriers have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of American Staffordshire Terriers and Scottish Terriers compare?

American Staffordshire Terriers are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Scottish Terriers are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.