What is the difference between a American Staffordshire Terrier and a English Setter?

The American Staffordshire Terrier is 40–70 lbs, 17–19 in sized while the English Setter is 45–80 lbs, 23–27 in sized. They differ in size (40–70 lbs, 17–19 in vs 45–80 lbs, 23–27 in), lifespan (12–16 years vs 12 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, American Staffordshire Terrier or English Setter?

American Staffordshire Terrier is generally good with kids. English Setter is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, American Staffordshire Terrier or English Setter?

The American Staffordshire Terrier has a lifespan of 12–16 years while the English Setter has a lifespan of 12 years.

American Staffordshire Terrier vs English Setter — Breed Comparison

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 English Setter

The English Setter is one of the oldest gun dog breeds — developed in England over 400 years ago to locate game birds by crouching or "setting" to indicate their position. Standing 23–27 inches tall and weighing 45–80 pounds, these graceful dogs are renowned for their beautiful feathered coat in distinctive "belton" patterns — blue belton, orange belton, tricolor, lemon belton, and liver belton. Their elegant appearance, with long, silky ears and a gently flowing coat, has earned them the title of the most beautiful sporting breed.

Temperament & Personality

English Setters are gentle, sweet-natured dogs with a calm indoor demeanor that belies their energetic field abilities. They are exceptionally good with children — patient and tolerant even with rough toddler play — and generally accepting of other dogs and household pets. Their affectionate, people-oriented nature makes them poor kennel dogs; they need to live as part of the family to thrive emotionally.

Pros

One of the gentlest sporting breeds — excellent with children of all ages and other pets
Calm and quiet indoors when given adequate outdoor exercise
Friendly toward strangers — makes a welcoming family dog without guarding tendencies
Versatile field dog that transitions beautifully from hunting companion to couch cuddler

Cons

Feathered coat requires regular grooming — brushing 3–4 times weekly to prevent tangles
Prone to elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and congenital deafness
Strong hunting instincts — will bolt after birds and small animals if not in a secure area
Can be slow to mature mentally — puppy-like behavior often persists until age 3 or beyond

Discover the beauty and gentleness of the English Setter — find one waiting for a home on Puplister.

American Staffordshire Terrier vs English Setter