Welsh Sheepdog vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed Comparison

Welsh Sheepdog vs American Staffordshire Terrier - Breed ComparisonBoth American Staffordshire Terrier and Welsh Sheepdog are originated from United Kingdom. American Staffordshire Terrier may grow 8 cm / 3 inches shorter than Welsh Sheepdog. Both American Staffordshire Terrier and Welsh Sheepdog are having almost same weight. Both American Staffordshire Terrier and Welsh Sheepdog has almost same life span. Both American Staffordshire Terrier and Welsh Sheepdog has same litter size. Both American Staffordshire Terrier and Welsh Sheepdog requires Low Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Terrier dog
Herding dogs
undefined
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Height Male:
43 - 48 cm
16 - 19 inches
51 - 56 cm
20 - 23 inches
Height Female:
40 - 47 cm
15 - 19 inches
48 - 54 cm
18 - 22 inches
Weight Male:
18 - 27 kg
39 - 60 pounds
16 - 25 kg
35 - 56 pounds
Weight Female:
15 - 23 kg
33 - 51 pounds
14 - 22 kg
30 - 49 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 16 Years
12 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
5 - 10
Size:
Large
Medium
Other Names:
Staffy • Staffie • Stafford • Staff • Am Staff • Amstaff • American Staffy
welsh collie
Colors Available:
BlackBlueBrindleBrownWhiteYellow
blue merle and tricolored Black and white • Red and white
Coat:
smooth, Single
soft undercoat short to moderately long, and it can be coarse or soft.
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate
Temperament:
Alert, Courageous, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Playful, Stubborn
Alert, Courageous, Independent, Intelligent, Protective, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Hard
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

History

american staffordshire terrierThe American Staffordshire Terrier is a part of all the confusion surrounding the group of “pit bulls”. The American Staffordshire Terrier is directly related to the English Bull Terrier and English Terrier. The breed of the English Staffordshire Terrier was bred in the early 19th century in the West Midlands. It was not until later that the breed came from Staffordshire. These English Staffordshire Terriers are also the source of contention by breeders who insist it was the Fox Terrier, White English Terrier, Tan and Black Terrier that are the ancestors of the English Staffordshire Terrier.

These terriers (AKA pit bull terrier) came to the United States in the mid 1800’s. By the late 1890’s they were accepted by the United Kennel Club (UKC)as the American Pit Bull Terrier – a new and distinct breed. There were also some that were accepted into the AKC as the Staffordshire Terrier. In England they were still known as the American Staffordshire Terrier. When the AKC accepted the breed in 1936 they were given a new standard, new purpose and new group – the terrier. In 1969 the American Kennel Club recognized these dogs as American Staffordshire Terriers and refused to recognize the American Pit Bull Terrier. The name was changed to move the breed away from its characterization as a bull fighter and to distinguish it from the smaller English Staffordshire Terrier. All American Staffordshire Terriers are directly related to the American Pit Bull Terriers.

welsh sheepdogThe Welsh Sheepdog is sometimes referred to as the Welsh Collie, but it is not a collie in anyway. It is the cross between the Border Collie and Welsh Sheepdog that is actually the Welsh Collie. The sheepdog was bred for herding not appearance and they are not all consistent in looks and size. They are a collie type but do not have recent collie ancestors. In fact the Border Collie has basically replaced the Welsh Sheepdog in herding sheep in Wales. The Welsh Sheepdog is still being bred as an indigenous breed. They are still prized for their ability to work independently and herding cattle, pigs, horses and goats as well as sheep. They were originally drovers.

In the 18th century there were many different Welsh herding dogs and one drover might have 4-6 different types of sheepdogs as guard dogs, herders and hunters. Most of these breeds were taller than the Welsh Sheepdog. By 1940 there aere only a couple of breeds doing these jobs in Wales. The purebred Welsh Hillman and Black and Tan Sheepdog were on the verge of extinction at that point.

At that time the most common dogs were descendants of the Black and Tan Sheepdog and the Border Collie. The Welsh Sheepdog was still working in central Wales and in the north country. They were purely a working breed and not a show breed in any way. They remain that today.

They are a landrace and very rare today. They have been around for more than 800 years with no effort at standardization for this working dog. They are only registered with the WSS or Welsh Sheepdog Society and the DRA Dog Registry of America.

Description

american staffordshire terrier puppy - descriptionThe American Staffordshire Terrier is a strong, powerful dog – stocky, muscular and graceful. At one point in time the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier were considered to be the same breed. Even today there are those that make that argument, but they have been recognized outside the AKC as separate breeds. The AKC only recognizes the American Staffordshire Terrier and not the APBT. However – even though there have been decades of separation in breeding the American Staffordshire Terrier and the American Pit Bull Terrier are the very same dogs genetically.

The American Staffordshire Terrier has a broad skull, high set ears and pronounced cheek bones. Their ears should not be cropped by AKC standards and their eyes are far apart, round and dark. With a medium sized muzzle and a heavy muscular back, they are as powerful as they look, if not more so. Most have black noses. The AmStaff has a broad, deep chest with wide set forelegs and compact feet. The tail is short and tapered and it should not be docked.

welsh sheepdog puppy - descriptionBred for their herding abilities not their appearance, the Welsh Sheepdog can vary in color, build and size. They have long legs, broad chests and wide muzzles. They are all around bigger than the Border Collie. They come in black and white, tricolor, red and white and merle. The coat can be short or long and the ears pricked and folded at the top.

They look most like the Border Collie with a taller, broader, more solid build. They typically are stronger than the Border. Their head is distinctly collie shaped, flat and broad with the wide muzzle. The nose is black and the eyes are oval and brown. The merles can have striking blue eyes.

This is an athletic dog and you can tell by looking at her. Well muscled, broad back and neck with a long upward tail. Their tough paws are perfect for the rough terrain and Wales mountainsides.

Characteristics

american staffordshire terrier dog - characteristicsThe American Staffordshire Terrier is a loving, gentle dog that wants nothing more than to be with and please his people. Contrary to his reputation as a “killer”, this dog is actually a lover. They are great with children and want to be a part of the family. They even think they are lap dogs, regardless of their size. They are never going to be aggressive toward people and even though they are not one-person dogs, they are loyal, and they are devoted to the family and the “leader of the pack”.

This breed can tell who is their friend and who is not. They are not aggressive, but they will protect their own. They are courageous, confident, attentive, bold and strong-willed. The AmStaff gets along with other dogs most of the time, but they will never back down from a challenge and should never be left unsupervised with another dog. They should not be loose in a neighborhood or at a dog park. No matter how much you trust your American Staffordshire Terrier they can be killers in any fight with another dog.

In addition to this you must socialize and train your AmStaff. You need to be the pack leader and be in control. The AmStaff wants to please you so for a strong leader they will respond positively to positive training. They are intelligent and pick up quickly on what you want them to do. However, they are incredibly strong physically so training them to heel and walk with you obediently is a must. A well trained and exercised American Staffordshire Terrier is a happy dog and a loyal family dog.

Characteristics

welsh sheepdog dog - characteristics1Children friendliness not really – aloof and concerned with job- all this dog wants to do is work.

2.Special talents -independent worker

3.Adaptability – Not an inside dog in any way. They need several hours of exercise per day.

4.Learning ability Highly intelligent but stubborn, independent

Health Problems

american staffordshire terrier puppies - health problemsFor the most part the American Staffordshire Terrier, like most of the “pit bulls” is a hearty, healthy dog. They have a few tendencies that breeders should test for including hip dysplasia, allergies, and heart issues. They can test for Cerebellar ataxia, which has affected the AmStaff with a progressive decline in their ability to control their muscles and coordination.

welsh sheepdog puppies - health problemsUsually an indigenous rare breed does not have a lot of genetic or hereditary health concerns. This is a little different with the Welsh Sheepdog can suffer from any of these conditions.

• Epilepsy – Most respond well to medication and others might not even need medication.

• Collie Eye Anomaly – This is common in collie breeds like the rough coated collie. The development of the Choroid is impaired resulting in harm to the circulation of blood to the eye.

  • Hip Dysplasia – Can lead to lameness or arthritis.

• Atopic Dermatitis – Allergic skin disorder irritating paws, ears, and perineum.

• PRA Progressive Retinal Atrophy - deterioration of the retina can lead to blindness. Inherited.

  • Diabetes Mellitus – Damages pancreas, high blood sugar. Can be treated.

Caring The Pet

american staffordshire terrier dogs - caringfeed You can feed your American Staffordshire Terrier either commercially purchased food or food you make yourself if the quality is high, nutrition is good, and the amount eaten is determined by the owner. Do not free feed. The AmStaff has the tendency to become obese. Its ok to use treats for training and rewards, as long as its use is controlled.

Health issues

As previously mentioned the American AmStaff Terrier has a tendency toward a few health issues. Hip Dysplasia – this condition causes a lot of pain and disability. It leads to different types of arthritis and degenerative joint disease. Cardiac Issues – Congenital heart disease consists of vessel malformation and lesions.

Allergies

Thyroid Issues

The AmStaff can be susceptible to Autoimmune Thyroiditis. This is a form of hypothyroidism developed by dogs. It is usually seen between 2 and 5 years of age. Continual retesting is recommended.

Cerebellar Ataxia

This is the most dangerous disease possibility that the American Staffordshire Terrier faces. There is a test for this condition which causes the AmStaff to display an inability to control their muscles and a loss of balance, to the point of falling. This is a progressive disease that often leads to euthanasia. The Staffordshire Terrier Club of America suggests that AmStaffs carrying the NCL genes should never be bred.

Exercise and games

The American Staffordshire Terrier is an energetic, and athletic dog that loves to play and needs plenty of exercise. This breed is oriented to people and should never be left alone in the yard all day as a way for her to exercise. She needs you to play with her. If you cannot do this, then you should not own this breed of dog. This breed also loves to play canine sports. They thrive on games like dock diving, agility and obedience competitions. They excel at search and rescue. These are competitive dogs that want nothing more then to please their people.

Caring for Dog

welsh sheepdog dogs - caring1Feeding the puppy active dog feed high quality high protein food. 3-4 x day 1-2 cups

2.Feeding the adult Active dog feed high quality high protein 2x day 2 cups a day.

3.Points for Good Health stamina and intelligence

4. Games and Exercises This is an extremely active breed that needs a job. They are not the best pets they are working dogs. They need a lot of exercise. They are not good at living indoors. At least 2 hours of exercise daily is a must.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. American Staffordshire Terrier vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. American Staffordshire Terrier vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. American Staffordshire Terrier vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. American Staffordshire Terrier vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. American Staffordshire Terrier vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. American Staffordshire Terrier vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. American Staffordshire Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Welsh Sheepdog vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Welsh Sheepdog vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Welsh Sheepdog vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Welsh Sheepdog vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Welsh Sheepdog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Welsh Sheepdog vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Welsh Sheepdog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Welsh Sheepdog vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Welsh Sheepdog vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Welsh Sheepdog vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Welsh Sheepdog vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Welsh Sheepdog vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Welsh Sheepdog vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Welsh Sheepdog vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Welsh Sheepdog vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Welsh Sheepdog vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Welsh Sheepdog vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Welsh Sheepdog vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Welsh Sheepdog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Welsh Sheepdog vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Welsh Sheepdog vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Welsh Sheepdog vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Welsh Sheepdog vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Welsh Sheepdog vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Welsh Sheepdog vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison