American Staffordshire Terrier vs Australian Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
American Staffordshire Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Australian Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
American Staffordshire Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Australian Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Staffordshire Terrier: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Australian Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Staffordshire Terrier3/5
Australian Shepherd5/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Staffordshire Terrier3/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Good with Strangers
American Staffordshire Terrier4/5
Australian Shepherd3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
American Staffordshire Terrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Heart Disease: Cardiac concerns
Skin Allergies: Dermatitis issues
Thyroid Problems: Hormone imbalance
Eye Issues: Progressive retinal
CCL Tears: Knee ligament damage
Australian Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
CEA: Hereditary eye condition
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Cataracts: Vision impairment risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development
Pros & Cons Comparison
American Staffordshire Terrier
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent with children
Strong and athletic
Easy to groom
Cons
Strong prey drive
Need extensive socialization
May be dog aggressive
High exercise needs
Australian Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Versatile abilities
Strong protective instincts
Athletic and agile
Cons
High exercise needs
Intense herding instinct
Heavy shedding
Can be too energetic
Requires constant mental stimulation
American Staffordshire Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their muscular appearance, AmStaffs are often called 'nanny dogs' due to their gentle nature with children.
Australian Shepherd Fun Fact
Australian Shepherds, despite their name, were actually developed in the western United States, not Australia!
Heritage & Purpose
American Staffordshire Terrier
Origin:
Developed in 19th century America from English bull-and-terrier breeds, these dogs served as all-purpose farm dogs and family guardians throughout the American heartland.
Australian Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in western United States during the 1800s, these dogs excelled in herding livestock across challenging terrain. Their versatile skills and keen intelligence made them invaluable to ranchers.
Special Considerations
American Staffordshire Terrier
Needs early socialization, consistent training, and regular exercise. Careful introduction to other pets required. Regular health monitoring for breed-specific issues essential.
Australian Shepherd
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.