Both the AMSTAFF and APBT dog breeds are not considered to be official breeds. These two breeds come with more similarities, which makes it hard to make out a distinction.
First of all, let us look at the origin of these two breeds. The APBT or the American Pit Bull Terrier was first bred in British Isles in the 19th century. It was during this period that the APBT landed in America.
AMSTAFF or American Staffordshire Terrier has been bred out from American and UK fighting pits. First the name was just Staffordshire Terrier and it was in 1972 that the breed got the name American Staffordshire Terrier.
In size comparison, the APBT is smaller and leaner than AMSTA. It can also be seen that APBT are more energetic than AMSTAFF.
The American Staffordshire Terrier comes in a height of 17 to 19 inches and a weight of 40 to 50 lbs. The AMSTAFF comes in Red, black, white, fawn and blue with shades of white and other colours. This breed has a soft, dense and short coat.
The APBT comes in heights of 18 to 22 inches and a weight of about 30 to 60 lbs. This breed comes in almost all colours. They have a shiny, thick and short coat.
With regard to temperament, the APBT and AMSTAFF are almost similar. Both these breeds are loyal, determined, intelligent, and devoted. However, it can be seen that AMSTAFF are friendlier than APBT. Moreover, AMSTAFF are also seen to be better with kids than APBT.
Summary:
- The APBT or the American Pit Bull Terrier was first bred in British Isles in the 19th century. It was during this period that the APBT landed in America.
- AMSTAFF or American Staffordshire Terrier has been bred out of the fighting pits of America and UK.
- The American Staffordshire Terrier comes in a height of 17 to 19 inches and a weight of 40 to 50 lbs. The APBT comes in heights of 18 to 22 inches and a weight of about 30 to 60 lbs.
- AMSTAFF breed has a soft, dense and short coat. APBT has shiny, thick and short coat.
- American Pit Bull Terrier are more energetic than American Staffordshire Terrier.
- Both these breeds are loyal, determined, intelligent, and devoted. However, it can be seen that AMSTAFF are friendlier than APBT.