There’s a lot of misinformation and confusion surrounding pit bulls. In fact, pit bull-type dogs are usually incredibly loving, loyal, and gentle with their family members. Instead, it’s an umbrella term that’s used for several breeds. Pit bull-type dogs often face unfair discrimination. These dogs were bred for their muscular build and consequently have been used in inhumane dogfighting sports. This has given them an inaccurate reputation as being overly aggressive dogs. For starters, a pit bull isn’t a specific breed. They also are usually playful and eager to please.
Here are the five dog breeds that are most commonly referred to as pit bull-type dogs.
Breed Characteristics
Pit bull-type dogs typically have muscular, stocky builds with deep chests and large, square heads. They’re notoriously determined dogs. In North America, bulldogs became working dogs on farms and all-around friendly companions. And they usually love people, including strangers, and crave attention. Training and socialization from a young age is important for pit bull terriers. Otherwise their size and strength can become difficult to handle, as they might pull hard on a leash or jump up on people to greet them.
Tip
Due to the stigma surrounding these breeds, certain areas have banned ownership of pit bull-type dogs. Make sure to check your local legislation before bringing one of these dogs home.
1. American Pit Bull Terrier
The American pit bull terrier is another breed recognized by the United Kennel Club but not the American Kennel Club. Its ancestors were 19th century terriers and bulldogs that came from the United Kingdom, and the breed took shape in North American in the late 19th century. Sadly this breed has been commonly used for dogfighting. Although modern American pit bulls can have a high prey drive and don’t always get along with other dogs, they’re known for forming strong bonds making use of their families. And as with most pit bull types, they tend to be loyal and affectionate.
| Breed Overview HEIGHT: 17 To 20 Inches WEIGHT: 30 To 65 Pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Muscular Build; Short Coat; Colors Include Black, White, Brindle, Fawn, Blue, Red, Brown, Tan, And Gray |
2. American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire terrier also has roots in the terriers and bulldogs of 19th century England. Its development in late 19th century North America resulted in a dog that was larger than its English relatives. The breed has beenn’t used as commonly for fighting as some of the other pit bull types, which resulted in more mellow dogs. But Am Staffs still can have a high prey drive and don’t always get along with other canines. However, they’re known for being loyal, playful, and good-natured with their families.
| Breed Overview HEIGHT: 17 To 19 Inches WEIGHT: 50 To 80 Pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Short Coat; Variety Of Colors Including Black, Brown, Blue, Fawn, Red, And Liver; Brindle Pattern And/Or White Markings Are Also Seen |
3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Despite the Staffordshire bull terrier’s development in the 19th century for dogfighting, the breed today is more closely associated with being unfailingly loyal and affectionate with its family. These dogs often love nothing more than snuggling with their owners, and they tend to be patient and gentle with children. They are a breed that is best suited to a household where they will have company for most of the day, as they could be prone to separation anxiety. Moreover, they have a tendency to be people-focused and don’t always get along well with other dogs.
| Breed Overview HEIGHT: 14 To 16 Inches WEIGHT: 24 To 38 Pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Muscular Build; Colors Include Black, Blue, Brindle, Fawn, White, And More |
4. American Bully
The American bully is a relatively new breed that was first developed in the ’80s and ’90s. Identified by the United Kennel Club in 2013 but not yet by the American Kennel Club, the breed came from the American pit bull terrier and other bulldog-type breeds. In comparison to the American pit bull terrier, bullies are much broader, more compact, and have a wider head. Bullies from responsible breeders have been specifically developed for their gentle and affectionate temperament. But bullies are still strong and athletic, so they need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
| Breed Overview HEIGHT: 20 To 28 Inches WEIGHT: 60 To 120 Pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Stocky Build; Deep Chest; Short Muzzle; Typically White With Patches Of Brindle, Red, Black, Or Shades Of Brown Or Gray |
5. American Bulldog
The American bulldog is really a descendant of English bulldogs, which were developed in the 17th century for bull baiting-a blood sport that involved dogs fighting bulls. When given a task, whether it be learning a new trick or digging a hole, they won’t give up easily. They tend to be extremely affectionate making use of their families, often wanting to sit in laps despite their large size. They also frequently love kids. But they can be quite protective of their families, so training and socialization are a must to ensure they will be friendly to people outside of your household.
| Breed Overview HEIGHT: 13 To 20 Inches WEIGHT: 65 To 85 Pounds PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: Compact, Strong, Thickset, And Muscular; Short And Smooth Coat; Comes In A Wide Variety Of Coat Colors And Patterns |