American Staffordshire Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
VS
German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherd Dog

American Staffordshire Terrier vs German Shepherd Dog

Compare American Staffordshire Terrier and German Shepherd Dog side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
American Staffordshire Terrier
German Shepherd Dog
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
43 – 48 cm
61 – 65 cm
Weight
19 – 33 kg
33 – 37 kg
Life expectancy
12 – 14 years
9 – 13 years
Child friendly
4/5
4/5
Energy level
4/5
4/5
Intelligence
3/5
3/5
Trainability
4/5
4/5
Health
4/5
4/5
Grooming needs
3/5
3/5
Shedding
3/5
3/5
Barking level
4/5
4/5
Aggressiveness
2/5
4/5
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Characteristics

American Staffordshire Terrier
Great with kids
High energy
Easy to train
Large
German Shepherd Dog
Great with kids
High energy
Protective
Easy to train
Large

Summary

About American Staffordshire Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier: muscular, medium-sized, people-focused dog with a short, easy-care coat in many colors. Affectionate, energetic, and highly trainable with consistent, positive handling. Needs daily exercise, mental stimulation, socialization, and responsible management.
About German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd Dog is a medium‑large, athletic working breed, highly intelligent and trainable. Loyal and naturally protective, it needs extensive daily mental and physical exercise. It has a double coat with notable shedding and is widely used in police, military, and search and rescue roles.

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