American Staffordshire Terrier vs Bloodhound

Which dog breed is right for you?

American Staffordshire Terrier

Size
40–70 lbs, 17–19 in
Lifespan
12–16 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
No
Loyal Courageous Good-natured Smart

Bloodhound

Size
80–110 lbs, 23–27 in
Lifespan
10–12 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Gentle Patient Determined Friendly

About the American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier — often called the AmStaff — was developed in the United States from crosses between Bulldogs and Terriers, earning AKC recognition in 1936. They stand 17–19 inches at the shoulder and weigh 40–70 pounds, presenting a stocky, muscular build that radiates power and confidence. Their short, stiff coat comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including blue, fawn, brindle, and black, and requires only minimal grooming.

Temperament & Personality

AmStaffs are known for their courage, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty to their families — they are genuinely affectionate dogs who love being at the center of household activities. They are typically excellent with children and are known for their patience and tolerance with youngsters. Proper socialization from puppyhood is critical, as they can be assertive with other dogs, and their strength demands a handler who can provide calm, confident leadership.

Pros

  • Incredibly loyal and protective of their family without being overly aggressive
  • Smart and highly trainable — they excel in obedience, rally, and therapy work
  • Short coat makes grooming a breeze
  • Sturdy and athletic, perfect for active families who enjoy outdoor activities

Cons

  • May face breed-specific legislation and insurance restrictions
  • Requires early and ongoing socialization with other dogs and animals
  • Prone to hip dysplasia, cardiac disease, and skin allergies
  • Their strong jaws and determination mean they can destroy toys and furniture quickly

AmStaffs make incredible family companions when given the right home — search for adoptable American Staffordshire Terriers on Puplister.

About the Bloodhound

The Bloodhound is a scent hound of unparalleled tracking ability, with origins dating back over a thousand years to monasteries in medieval Belgium and France. These large, noble dogs stand 23–27 inches tall and weigh 80–110 pounds, with a loose-skinned, powerful build and famously droopy ears and facial folds that help channel scent toward their nose. Their short, dense coat comes in black-and-tan, liver-and-tan, and red, requiring minimal grooming beyond regular wrinkle cleaning.

Temperament & Personality

Bloodhounds are gentle, patient, and affectionate — despite their imposing size, they are among the most docile and tolerant of all breeds. They are wonderful with children and other animals, displaying remarkable patience even with rough handling from toddlers. However, when they catch an interesting scent, they become single-minded and nearly impossible to redirect — they have been known to follow a trail for over 130 miles.

Pros

  • Possesses the most powerful nose in the canine world — their trailing results are admissible in court
  • Gentle, patient, and affectionate with all family members including young children
  • Excellent with other dogs and household pets
  • Calm and easygoing indoors, content to lounge when not working

Cons

  • Copious drooling — their loose jowls produce significant slobber, especially after eating and drinking
  • Strong, determined pullers on leash who can be nearly impossible to control when trailing a scent
  • Prone to bloat, hip and elbow dysplasia, and ear infections due to their long, pendulous ears
  • Relatively short lifespan of 10–12 years and susceptible to skin fold dermatitis

These gentle giants have hearts as big as their noses — explore adoptable Bloodhounds on Puplister today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a American Staffordshire Terrier and a Bloodhound?
The American Staffordshire Terrier is 40–70 lbs, 17–19 in sized while the Bloodhound is 80–110 lbs, 23–27 in sized. They differ in size (40–70 lbs, 17–19 in vs 80–110 lbs, 23–27 in), lifespan (12–16 years vs 10–12 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, American Staffordshire Terrier or Bloodhound?
American Staffordshire Terrier is generally good with kids. Bloodhound is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, American Staffordshire Terrier or Bloodhound?
The American Staffordshire Terrier has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the Bloodhound has a lifespan of 10–12 years.

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