Trying to decide between an American Staffordshire Terrier(pitbull) or a Doberman

I have been trying to decide and have been researching for months now, I just can’t decide, I would get a female dobie, or a male amstaff, i know that for sure, I have owned a lab and 3 shiba’s before, other members of my family currently own pits, if someone wants to, please give me what you would pick and why, only educated people, please(meaning no one saying ” oooh i want a tea-cup chihuahua!”)

I have had dobie’s in the past. They are amazing dogs, but they don’t live very long, so if you get one get a puppy, males are a ton easier to train than a female. Females are more stubborn and more mouthy. (Dobies longevity is around 8-11 yrs) I have only heard of a handful of living to 14.

They are extremely needy and are nicknamed ‘velcro’ dogs. Which means they will follow you everywhere! and I mean even into the bathroom! but they are extremely family friendly and are natural protectors so you don’t have to worry about your house when you’re gone.

As for a pit bull I have had family and friends that have had them and those are great dogs also. But Dobie’s are more affectionate and easier to train and all around goofy. Honestly I would pick a dobie.

And honestly, if you want either one I wouldn’t get a male amstaff they are quite stubborn if you have never had one they are a pain, females are easier. And Dobie’s males are easier than females if you haven’t had any experience with those either.

I thought that American Stafforshire Terrier and Pitbull Terriers were the same until very recently as well—in actuality the Staffie is much smaller and compact. I recently adoped a Doberman and my exboyfriend owns a Staffie—honestly I cannot say enough about how wonderful both of these dogs are.

If you are looking for a more independent dog I would probably go with the Staffie—they are much less needy than Dobes, which tend to follow you like a shadow around the house and need a LOT of attention. However, they both have very fun, goofy personalities and are wonderful family dogs. I don’t have any experience with regular Pitbulls, so I can’t really give advice on that front, but I hope this helps.

Ps, no matter which of these breed you choose, be ready to defend your dog against criticism from strangers, since all three of them tend to have a negative repuation. At first I would get really defensive when someone was scared of my dog for no reason, but if you just explain about your dog nicely to people most of them are interested, and want to be educated. I’m pretty sure I’ve converted more than a few people into Doberman fans!