Ah, the word “Pitbull”!!! Few breeds stir up as much debate, passion, and confusion as this one little label. And the thing is… it is not even a single breed. It is an umbrella term that covers several breeds, different types of Pitbulls, with similar physical traits and shared ancestry.
But in the U.S., when someone says “Pitbull,” they might mean any number of Terrier-type breeds or mixed Bully breeds. That’s where the confusion begins. And that’s exactly what we are clearing up today, especially the dangerous dog debate.
If you ask yourself what the different types of Pit Bulls are, buckle in. We are about to break down six distinct and powerful dog breeds that fall under the Pitbull family.
Types Of Pitbulls
These breeds are known for their loyalty, strength, and misunderstood reputation. But each one brings something different, something unique to the table.
1. American Bully
Let’s start with the big boy. The American Bully is a relatively new breed, a Pit Bull-type dog, that was developed as a companion dog. But… this Pit Bull dog is not recognized by the major Kennel Club. The United Kennel Club mentions that they are a natural extension of the American Pit Bull Terrier.
They are a mixed-breed dog with an infusion of several other breeds.
Key Traits:
Muscular build and stocky frame
Friendly, social, and loyal
Great with families and children
Although they look tough, American Bully breed dogs were not bred to be fighting dogs. They were designed to be the best partners for humans. Their temperament is more mellow than some of their cousins, which makes them ultimately a great fit for the right homes.
They come in three sizes. Pocket, Standard/Classic, XL. But all American Bully dogs share that unmistakable blocky head and wide chest. If you are after loyalty, playfulness, and a muscular breed that just wants to be near you, this could be your guy.
2. American Pit Bull Terrier
Arguably the most recognized of the bunch, the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT) is the poster child for the Pitbull name. For better or worse.
Again, a misunderstood breed, but PetMD mentions that this Terrier breed has a loving nature and an outgoing personality. It is a medium-sized dog of solid build with a red nose.
Key Traits:
Athletic, agile, and powerful
Deep loyalty to their humans
Highly intelligent and eager to please
Originally bred for bull baiting and later used in dog fighting rings, the Pit Bull dog has a complicated past. But many modern-day APTBs are gentle, affectionate, and yes… great with kids. But only when properly trained and socialized.
The United Kennel Club (UKC) has officiated the APTB as a specific breed. But the American Kennel Club (AKC)… not so much!! And that alone should tell you how blurry the lines get in the Pit Bull breed world.
3. American Staffordshire Terrier
Say hello to the AmStaff. This is one of the most misunderstood breeds out there, often confused with its American Pit Bull Terrier cousin because they have a little bit similar appearance. They are one of the four breeds most commonly referred to as Pit Bull-type dogs.
Key Traits:
Stronger yet slightly shorter and stockier than APTBs
Friendly, medium-sized, good-natured with a short coat
Recognized by the American Kennel Club
They have a tough appearance, but many AmStaffs are total couch potatoes who adore snuggles. They can be incredibly loyal and protective. Early training and proper socialization are the keys for AmStaffs if you want to get them acquainted with other dogs.
They tend to have a refined structure due to years of being bred for conformation shows. Britannica mentions they have a stable temperament, and they have been adapted for hunting due to their courage and strength.
4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Let’s shrink things a bit. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a smaller dog but just as muscular as its cousins that hail from the U.K. They have a playful nature, and they are especially affectionate toward kids.
Key Traits:
Rock-solid muscular build Terriers
Affectionate and very people-oriented
Extremely loyal and loving with children
The breed is popular in Britain and is slowly gaining ground in the U.S. Though compact, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is powerful, agile, and alert. And like many Terriers, it has a tenacious streak. But here’s what surprises most people: they are known as nanny dogs in England for their sweet and gentle nature around kids, as noted by Hills Pet Nutrition. Yes, really.
They also tend to get labeled as Pitbulls in the U.S., which means they often fall under breed-specific legislation even when they don’t quite fit the mold.
5. Bull Terrier
That egg-shaped head…!! That is the signature of the Bull Terrier. And it makes them one of the most visually unique Terrier breeds out there.
Key Traits:
Iconic head shape, stocky builds, and a stubborn streak
Comedic and clown-like personality
Devoted and protective of their family
Bull Terriers were developed in the 1800s as a mix of Bull and Terrier breeds, and it was intended to be both strong and elegant. They became fashionable among gentlemen, but their tough nature also made them attractive for more sinister uses. They stated their career as gladiators in blood sports.
They have a short coat, deep chests, and boundless energy. These dogs are confident, fearless, and need consistent training and leadership. But once bonded, they are hilariously entertaining and fiercely loyal.
6. American Bulldog
While not always lumped in as “Pitbulls”, the American Bulldog or AmBull is often mistaken as one due to its looks and build. And trust us, this working dog deserves a spotlight. Purina describes them as muscular, robust, well-built, broad-headed, never fat, long-legged dogs. It is a type rather than a breed.
Key Traits:
Large, athletic, and tough
Incredibly loyal and protective animals
Great with families, but needs space and exercise
The American Bulldog comes from the Bulldog stock that originally worked on farms in England, guarding livestock and hunting, and bull baiting as well. Due to their broad heads and muscular build, they get confused with Pitbull-type dogs all the time.
This breed is loving with its people but cautious around strangers. Socialization and obedience training are very important to ensure they do not become territorial and show aggression. Like other Bully breed dogs, they need an owner who understands leadership, structure, and patience, and is never aggressive.
Conclusion
So… what exactly is a Pitbull? Depends on who you ask. The term “Pitbull” covers multiple breeds: American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Bully, Bull Terrier (Miniature Bull Terrier), and yes… even the American Bulldog.
Some were bred for farm work. Others for bull baiting. A few are just family pets. But they all share that loyal heart and muscular charm that Pitbull lovers know so well. If you are thinking of bringing one home, do your homework about their average lifespan, physical appearance, and weight range etc.
Look into breed standards, talk to reputable breeders or disease control and animal welfare groups. Be prepared to advocate for your dog.
At the end of the day, these Pit Bull-type dogs are not only tough-looking canines. They are loyal. They are affectionate. They are family. And maybe… just maybe, it’s time we treated them that way.
