American Pit Bull Terrier vs Scottish Terrier

Which dog breed is right for you?

American Pit Bull Terrier

Size
30–65 lbs, 17–21 in
Lifespan
12–16 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Affectionate Energetic Confident Loyal

Scottish Terrier

Size
19–22 lbs, 10–11 in
Lifespan
12 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
No
Good with Pets
No
Independent Confident Spirited Dignified

About the American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull Terrier traces its roots to 19th-century England, where Bulldogs and Terriers were crossed to create a dog combining strength with agility. Standing 17–21 inches tall and weighing 30–60 pounds, the APBT is a medium-sized, solidly built dog with a broad chest and well-defined musculature. Their short, glossy coat comes in virtually every color and pattern — including blue, red, brindle, and merle — and is exceptionally easy to maintain.

Temperament & Personality

Despite their often-misunderstood reputation, American Pit Bull Terriers are among the most people-oriented breeds — they are affectionate, eager to please, and frequently described as "nanny dogs" for their gentleness with children. They are intelligent, loyal, and enthusiastic about training when given positive reinforcement. However, some individuals may exhibit dog-selectivity, and responsible ownership includes understanding their terrier-driven tenacity.

Pros

  • Extremely affectionate and loyal — they bond deeply with every family member
  • Highly trainable and eager to please, excelling in obedience and nosework
  • Low grooming needs with their short, easy-care coat
  • Athletic and energetic — outstanding companion for active lifestyles

Cons

  • Subject to breed-specific legislation and housing restrictions in many areas
  • May develop dog-selectivity, requiring careful management around other dogs
  • Strong and powerful — not ideal for physically frail owners
  • Prone to skin allergies, hip dysplasia, and congenital heart disease

These loving, misunderstood dogs deserve wonderful homes — browse adoptable Pit Bull Terriers on Puplister today.

About the Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier — often called the "Scottie" — is one of Scotland's oldest terrier breeds, developed in the Aberdeen area during the 18th and 19th centuries to hunt foxes, badgers, and rats underground. These compact, powerful dogs stand about 10 inches tall and weigh 18 to 22 pounds, with a low center of gravity and surprisingly heavy bone for their size. Their harsh, wiry outer coat and soft, dense undercoat come in black, wheaten, or brindle, and the breed's distinctive profile — long head, erect ears, and bushy eyebrows — is among the most recognizable in dogdom.

Temperament & Personality

Scottish Terriers are independent, dignified, and fiercely loyal to their people — often described as having an "old soul" quality uncommon in the terrier group. They tend to bond most deeply with one or two people and can be reserved or aloof with strangers, making them natural watchdogs. Scotties can be assertive with other dogs, especially those of the same sex, and their strong prey drive means small animals are rarely safe in their presence.

Pros

  • Compact and sturdy — well-suited for apartment living with regular exercise
  • Low-shedding wiry coat when properly maintained through hand-stripping
  • Loyal, devoted companion with a dignified, independent character
  • Excellent watchdog — alert and naturally suspicious of strangers

Cons

  • Stubbornly independent — training requires patience and creative motivation
  • Prone to von Willebrand's disease (a bleeding disorder), Scottie cramp, and bladder cancer
  • Can be aggressive toward other dogs, especially unfamiliar ones
  • Requires regular professional grooming or hand-stripping every 6 to 8 weeks

The Scottish Terrier's unwavering loyalty and distinctive charm are one of a kind — find your Scottie on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a American Pit Bull Terrier and a Scottish Terrier?
The American Pit Bull Terrier is 30–65 lbs, 17–21 in sized while the Scottish Terrier is 19–22 lbs, 10–11 in sized. They differ in size (30–65 lbs, 17–21 in vs 19–22 lbs, 10–11 in), lifespan (12–16 years vs 12 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, American Pit Bull Terrier or Scottish Terrier?
American Pit Bull Terrier is generally good with kids. Scottish Terrier is not typically good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, American Pit Bull Terrier or Scottish Terrier?
The American Pit Bull Terrier has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Scottish Terrier has a lifespan of 12 years.

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