Pitbull vs. American Bully: Which Is More Calm?

You’re sitting on your couch, remote in hand, scrolling through dog breed videos and thinking: Pitbull Vs American Bully: Which is more calm to have in the house?

We get you there because these two dogs are everywhere on social media, in parks… and yes, sometimes, in the middle of heated family debates about which one is better for a laid-back home.

Both the American Bully and Pit Bull dog breeds come from similar roots. Both were once lumped under the umbrella of “bully breeds”. And both have those big blocky heads, muscular frames, and a loyalty streak that runs deep.

But… they are totally different dogs when it comes to the vibe.

One still carries that old working dog drive. The other dog was sculpted for companionship with a calmer temperament in mind. So, which one is right for your family, your kids, and your Saturday afternoons on the porch? Let’s find out.

And yes, we are going to get into bite force, grooming, playfulness, and the whole “are they inherently aggressive?” thing. So, stick around till the end.

DID YOU KNOW?

The term “Pit Bull” is not actually one single breed. As per PBS, it is a label, more of an umbrella term, that has loosely been used in the U.S. to describe many different breeds like the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and even sometimes the American Bulldog.

That’s why you will hear folks arguing endlessly about “Pit Bull type dogs”, because they are talking about a whole bunch of very similar dogs with a common ancestry, not jut one breed. But, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club.

Pitbull vs. American Bully: Which Is More Calm?

Breed Size and Weight Comparison

The short version is, these are medium-sized dogs with some overlap, but the way they carry that size is one of the first key differences. Let’s have a bird’s-eye view of their size and weight.

• If you want a more athletic build that is lighter on its feet, the Pit Bull is your go-to.

• If you prefer a broad chest, a blocky head, and a dog that seems like it was carved from granite, the American Bully is the one medium-sized dog you can notice across the street.

Physical Strength and Bite Force

So, physical characteristics are where the common misconceptions come in. People, even ardent dog lovers, lump these two breeds into “dangerous dogs” or “fighting dogs” categories, thanks to dog fighting rings and blood sports like bull baiting.

Pit Bulls were specifically bred for dog fighting sports in the 19th century, so yeah, these dogs are still mislabeled as dangerous to this day.

REALITY CHECK, PEEPS!!

• The Pit Bull dog is strong, yes. But its bite force is not that record-breaking as people would imagine. SPOILER ALERT! It is only 235 PSI, 3x less than the strongest dog’s 740+ PSI.

• The American Bully also packs strength, but it was not bred for dog fighting. As per Britannica, these dogs were made to be companion dogs, and the XL size American Bully has a bite force of 305 PSI. Talk about dangerous.

Both dogs are powerful, muscular dog breeds, but neither is the nightmare the media paints. All they need is proper socialization and positive reinforcement training, and they will be stable and safe pets.

Playfulness and Exercise Needs

Alright, here’s where we separate the couch dogs from the jogging partners.

• Pitbull has high energy. These dogs need structured exercise daily (long walks, play sessions, maybe even agility training). They are eager to please and love working because they have classic working dog personality traits. As per PetMD, they need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily.

• On the other hand, American Bully is generally calmer. They still need daily walks, but do not bounce off the walls if you miss a game of fetch. They are more adaptable to chill houses.

So, if you are running an active household with hiking weekends and kids who cannot sit still, an American Pit Bull Terrier matches that lifestyle. And, if you want a more laid-back companion who will never complain about Netflix binges, the American Bully is often the calmer choice.

Adaptability and Level of Independence

These two breeds are very similar dogs in loyalty, with few differences. But their adaptability… well, that is another story.

• Pitbulls are clingy. They are sometimes nicknamed ‘Velcro dogs’. They want to be near their people all the time. Leave these affectionate dogs alone too much, and you might deal with separation anxiety.

• American Bullies are a little more independent. Still family-oriented, but can handle some downtime better.

Bottom line!! If you are gone at work 9-5, the American Bully might adapt more easily. The Pit Bull… not so much unless you plan for dog sitters, doggy daycare, and structured crate training.

Compatibility with Children, Pets, and Strangers

This is where the reputation wars about high prey drive happen!!

Historically, the Pitbull-type dogs were once called “nanny dogs,” but many people say it is a myth. However, there is some evidence that they were really good with kids. But media hype around dog fighting and animal aggression turned that reputation upside down.

The truth about nanny dogs.

• Pitbulls are amazing with children when raised with proper socialization. They bond deeply, they are protective, and they can be incredibly gentle. They may have higher animal aggression toward other dogs if not trained early.

• American Bullies are specifically bred to tone down that assertive edge. They are often softer with other pets, strangers, and kids. Both the American Bully and Pit Bull Terrier thrive in family environments, but the Bully usually wins points for being calmer.

Neither breed’s history shows they were inherently aggressive. They just need early socialization and firm but loving leadership.

Health Conditions and Lifespan

Let’s talk reality. Big blocky dogs = certain health issues.

• Pitbulls have an average lifespan of around 8-15 years. They are generally healthy but can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, skin allergies, and some eye issues.

• The American Bully puppy has a lifespan of around 10-12 years. Larger ones can face hip dysplasia, heart issues, and skin conditions.

Both breeds need high-quality food, joint supplements, and regular vet checks. And because they are prone to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, keeping them lean is non-negotiable.

Grooming Needs and Allergy Considerations

GOOD NEWS! None of these breeds is high-maintenance in the grooming department.

• Short coats, low shedding

• Weekly brushing keeps things clean.

• Bath as needed.

• Keep nails trimmed, check ears (natural ears that trap dirt), and stay on top of skin care if allergies pop up.

If your household struggles with dog allergies, both breeds shed lightly, but don’t expect them to be hypoallergenic dogs.

Conclusion

So, Pitbull vs. American Bully: Which is calmer?

• Choose the Pitbull (American Pit Bull Terrier or other Bulldog type breeds) if you want an energetic, eager to please, and athletic breed that thrives in active households.

• Pick the American Bully if you want a calmer companion dog with a muscular build, broad chest, and a temperament better suited for relaxed homes.

Neither breed is a “dangerous dog” by default. Both just need proper socialization, structure, and lots of love.

If you are after a dog that’s more go-go-go, the Pit Bull will keep you moving. If you are after a steady presence with unique traits, who’s just as happy to snuggle as to play in the yard, the American Bully is often the calmer choice.

Calmer or energetic, these are not inherently aggressive dogs. They are just dogs… waiting for the right homes where they can thrive happily with early socialization and consistent training with positive reinforcement.