So you think you know what a Pitbull is? Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but according to a variety of research, it is very likely that you don’t! The University of Florida found that dog shelter workers, including Veterinarians, commonly mistake a variety of dogs as Pitbull type breeds, which not only is incorrect, but it can have a multitude of devastating consequences for the mislabeled pups. Many of these pups are just random mixed breed dogs, or some type of Pitbull mix.
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The term ‘Pitbull’ is not a dog as such, but a general label given to a few dog breeds with similar origins, appearance and temperaments. The four Pitbull type breeds are the American Pitbull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and the American Bully. Despite their vicious reputation and their increased numbers in shelters, they are anything but vicious if they are raised properly.
This guide is going to set out the facts from the fiction regarding everything Pitbull. We bet that you will learn something new about Pitbull type dogs that you didn’t know before. We’ve also compiled not only a comparison of the different types of Pitbull dogs, but also a full list of myths versus reality below.
Contents
- 1 Defining Pitbulls
- 2 Different Types of Pitbulls
- 2.1 American Pitbull Terrier
- 2.2 Red Nose American Pitbull Terrier
- 2.3 Blue Nose American Pitbull Terrier
- 2.4 American Staffordshire Terrier
- 2.5 Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- 2.6 American Bully
- 3 Breed Specific Legislation
- 4 Pitbull Myths vs. Pitbull Reality
- 5 Final Thoughts
Defining Pitbulls
Officially, a Pitbull is not actually a dog breed in itself. It’s an umbrella term used for dogs who descend from Bulldogs and Terriers. There are four official breeds of the Pitbull type dog. However, often other similar looking breeds will also be chucked under the Pitbull label, which we will look into further in the next section. The American Pitbull Terrier is the main dog breed that is associated with the term Pitbull. Often when someone is talking about a Pitbull, they will more than likely be referring to an American Pitbull Terrier.
Terriers, who are known for their agility and feistiness, and Bulldogs, who are known for their brute strength, were bred together to create the perfect fighting dog. This breed was meant to be tenacious and powerful. Pitbull type dogs first originated in Great Britain. This is where bear and bull-baiting were popular but cruel, blood sports.
In 1835, when the Cruelty to Animals Act was enacted, this sport was thankfully stopped. But the spectators and participants quickly turned their attention to dogfighting events. They were cheaper to organize and easier to drive underground so to hide the events from law enforcement. Not only did these events involve gambling, but they enabled owners to showcase their dog’s gameness and strength. The last dog standing, or fighting, won their owner the prize and reputation of breeding the best dogs around.
Reputation
This is where the Pitbull type dog’s vicious reputation started. However, on an important note, all fighting dogs were obviously trained to be extremely vicious towards other dogs. But, as soon as a human entered the ring, they were trained not to attack. This is where their love of humans also stems from. Any dog that displayed human aggression were culled.
After the Civil War, British immigrants began to arrive in America, with their fighting dogs in tow. It was here that American dogfighters wanted to create an even bigger and more powerful fighting dog breed. This was where the American Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and American Bully were born.
Different Types of Pitbulls
The following four dog breeds are the most widely accepted Pitbull type dogs. However, just to make it slightly more confusing, some breeds are only accepted by certain Kennel Clubs. And some are accepted by all Kennel Clubs. Many people argue that the American Pitbull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier are the only two breeds that are true Pitbull type dogs. Others say that the American Pitbull Terrier and the American Staffordshire Terrier are in fact the same breed of dog.
So, dependending on who you ask, you may well get a different answer, but all the information in this article is what is the most common belief or what is commonly accepted by the professionals in the canine world.
Appearances
All Pitbull type dogs share their athletic and muscular look. Some may look more athletic than others. Some dogs are squatter and wider, some are taller and leaner. You can compare their heights and weights, according to their official breed standard, at the end of this section in the table. All Pitbull type dogs have a square-shaped head, a square fleshy nose, and big almond-shaped eyes.
All of their coats are short and smooth. They all require minimum bathing and brushing. Their tails are long and straight, and their ears tend to be rose-shaped, except of course when they have been cropped. Many owners still prefer this and adopt the look.
Coat Coloring
Pitbull type dogs come in pretty much any animal color you can think of, except for merle. While there are merle colored Pitbull type dogs out there, the merle color gene is not naturally found in these breeds. This means another breed with this color gene has been chucked into the mix at some point. Therefore a merle Pitbull type dog is not 100% of Pitbull origin. This color is not accepted by any breed club, so this is something to think about before paying the extra price tag for this color.
Temperaments
All four dogs tend to share the same temperament, adoring humans and craving their company. They also love to get involved in the family fun whether that be a game of football or a snooze on the sofa. They are very sweet and sensitive souls, and are particularly fond of children. This is how they earned their nickname, the nanny dog.
If not socialized adequately as a pup then they can display fear aggression against other dogs. But this is the same for a Chihuahua all the way up to a Great Dane. If they are socialized well they tend to be sociable with other dogs. Their eagerness to please their masters also means that they are a dream to train. If you are consistent in your training you will find an obedient Pittie sidekick on your hands. Let’s take a closer look at each Pitbull type dog and their specs.
American Pitbull Terrier
- Height 17-21 Inches
- Weight 30-65 Pounds
American Staffordshire
- Height 17-19 Inches
- Weight 40-70 Pounds
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Height 14-16 Inches
- Weight 24-40 Pounds
American Bully
- Height 13-23 Inches
- Weight 25-60 Pounds
American Pitbull Terrier
As previously mentioned, this is the most commonly spoken of Pitbull. It’s the one that many think is the original, or the only, Pitbull type dog. This dog is not recognized as a breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC). He is, however, recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC). It is stated that this breed has maintained his breed type for well over 150 years. Because of this, he is considered to be a purebred dog by the UKC.
Upon arriving in America, ranchers and farmers couldn’t help but notice his athleticism, skill and obedience. These dogs quickly took employment on many farms and ranches as herders, and as hunters. Once his hard day’s work was completed, he became the family companion for his master and his family. The American Pitbull Terrier is one of the tallest out of the four breeds. Being taller means that he is a lot more athletic in appearance. For further information on his appearance, the UKC breed standard of the American Pitbull Terrier can be found here.
APBT’s come in a variety of different colors including brindle, black, white, brown or a mix of all of them. Along with the label comes additional health conditions and often higher price tags. The American Pitbull Terrier is also often compared to the American Bulldog or compared to the Staffordshire Terrier even though they are different breeds. They are also sometimes confused with the Dogo Argentino because they look similar.
Red Nose American Pitbull Terrier
A red nose American Pitbull Terrier will have exactly that, a red nose. With the red nose comes copper or earthy brown coat colors, such as brown, red, fawn or chestnut. His lips, eyes and toenails are also red in color. While they are certainly rarer than the typical American Pitbull Terrier, they are exactly the same in every other way. They do have a few additional health concerns linked to the recessive gene, which is discussed further below.
Because he is rarer in color, many unethical breeders breed genetically close red noses in order to increase the chances of their puppies also being red noses, and thus generating more money. This breeding practice is frowned upon because it leads to genetic defects and poor health.
If you are seeking a red nose American Pitbull Terrier be sure to work with an ethical breeder who can prove family lineage, and the health of the pups. Just because they often sell for a few thousand dollars does not mean that they have been bred correctly or well looked after. Make sure to do your own due diligence!
Blue Nose American Pitbull Terrier
A blue nose American Pitbull Terrier is the same as the red nose American Pitbull Terrier, except he has a blue nose. His nose, lips, eyes, and toenails will be blue or grey in color, and he will be easily identifiable from a young age compared to the traditional black nose. Similar to other breeds, having a rarer coloring can come with a higher price tag, so be sure to work with a reputable breeder.
In addition to the inbreeding concerns given their smaller gene pool, the different color nose (including the red) is a result of low melanin levels. This is the pigment responsible for coloring in any living system, including us humans.
A deficiency in melanin, which is as a result of the recessive color gene, also creates additional health issues and diseases. It has been linked to skin allergies (which Pitbull type dogs are already prone to), heart diseases, eye conditions, and an increase in the chance of cancer and decreased immune system functionality. Which is all the more reason to work with a reputable breeder!
American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier, commonly shortened to the name ‘AmStaff’, is recognized by the AKC and not the UKC. He is ranked as the 85th most popular dog breed out of 193 breeds. Research suggests that he is much more popular than this, with most owners not registering them for breeding or conformation purposes. He has long been one of America’s favorite dogs, not only has he been the sidekick of 3 American Presidents, but he was also America’s most decorated war dog.
The American Staffordshire has long been a family companion. His sweet nature has won the hearts of millions, not just in America but across the world. Despite his formidable exterior he is known to be one of the sweetest dogs around, who not only loves his family very much but also everybody that he comes into contact with. For this reason, he does not make the greatest of natural guard dogs. For further information on his appearance, his full breed standard can be found here.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is thought to be the most popular dog in Great Britain, yet being the 80th most popular breed in America his popularity has not quite caught on over here. He is recognized by all major Kennel Clubs, including the AKC and UKC. Staffies are described as clever, brave and tenacious. He’s an affectionate dog who has a real love for life!
He is the smallest of Pitbull type dogs too, sometimes by 7 inches in height. The biggest Staffordshire Bull Terriers are around the same weight as the smaller dogs amongst the other dogs. Being smaller, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a great choice for those who love Pitbull type dogs but have less room for the stockier versions. Further detailed information on his breed standard can be found here.
American Bully
The American Bully is a descendant of the American Pitbull Terrier. Over time, he has become so distinct in appearance that he is now considered to be his own breed altogether. He is a relatively new breed that was developed in the 1980s,only recognized by the UKC in 2013. He is shorter than the American Pitbull Terrier and much wider than any of the breeds here in this article. These pups can be so wide that it often looks like his muscles have muscles! The American Bully is a larger pitbull-type dog, and has specific nutrition requirements.
He is recognized by the UKC, and not the AKC. The American Bully Kennel Club also recognizes him, and they recognize him in four distinct sizes: Pocket, Standard, Classic and XL (see sizes in the below table). The Classic American Bully is much narrower and less muscular than the other 3 sizes. Many people also believe that Micro and XXL American Bullies exist, and sell them as such, but these sizes are not officially recognized.
The most expensive American Bully, named White Rhino, was purchased for $250,000, and this exorbitant price tag is very rare. But American Bullies can be by far the most expensive dogs in America. The biggest American Bully on record is Hulk, who weighs a humongous 174 pounds! The American Bully is also often compared to the American Bulldog, English Bulldog, and (English) Bull Terrier.
Breed Specific Legislation
Pitbull type dogs are all subject to Breed Specific Legislation (BSL). Thisvaries from country to country and state to state, all of which can, for example, enforce increased liability insurance all the way up to outright banning. Much research suggests that BSL is not effective and as such should be withdrawn.
Not only do owners have to deal with unfair and restrictive law, increases in insurance, and being excluded from home rentals, but they also have to deal with day-to-day prejudices from society thanks to a lack of education and the sensationalist media. This is despite controlled studies suggesting that Pitbull type dogs are not disproportionately dangerous.
While this subject needs an article in its own right, it is something that you need to take into consideration if you are thinking about welcoming a Pitbull type dog into your home. It’s something that you must research thoroughly. For further information regarding local laws, this page lists the states that prohibit the regulation of certain dog breeds by local government.
Pitbull Myths vs. Pitbull Reality
Here we are going to look at the common myths versus what the reality is surrounding Pitbull type dogs. There are many different misconceptions when it comes to the breed, so we’ve compiled a list of the most commonly discussed myths versus the reality below. Let’s dispel some of the bad, and take a look at some of the good.
Myth: All Pitbull type dogs are inherently dangerous.
Reality: No, not all Pitbull type dogs are dangerous. The American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) put dog breeds through a series of tests and challenges to test their temperament, and out of 35,686 dogs tested in the latest results (December 2017), the average pass rate was 83.7%.
The American Pitbull Terrier passed at 87.4%. Then, the American Staffordshire Terrier passed at 85.5% and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier passed at 90.9%. The American Bully temperament test results are not available (which does not mean they failed). However, the three Pitbull type dogs passed well above the average score, so this alone supports the case that Pitbull type dogs are not inherently dangerous.
Myth: Pitbull type dogs have ‘lockjaw’, which makes them more dangerous.
Reality: No, they do not have ‘lockjaw’. There is no such thing as a lockjaw. All canine skulls are of the same design and have the same functions, and there is no locking function. Terriers are known for their tenacity and gameness, which is why when they get hold of prey, they keep hold of it. This is thevery reason why Terriers were originally selected to be bred with Bulldogs.
Myth: You shouldn’t rescue a Pitbull type dog because they were abused.
Reality: No, not all Pitbulls have been mistreated, and not all mistreated dogs are dangerous. There are simply so many Pitbulls, that they make up the highest proportion of dogs in rescue shelters. Consequently, they are the population that is euthanized the most too.
Equally, not all mistreated dogs are dangerous. Being a Pitbull type dog rescue mom, whose dog was badly beaten and given drugs during the first year of his life, he was later used as the ‘tester dog’ in rescue kennels to profile other dogs and their sociability, simply because he is so friendly. Pitbulls are the same as any other dog, there will always be a few dangerous pups. This entirely comes down to poor socialization as a puppy, but they are few and far between.
Myth: Do Pitbull type dogs really smile?
Reality: While science suggests that dogs can’t smile, if you ask any Pitbull type mom or dad you will get a resounding yes from them! And if you don’t believe them, then check out Lady Shortcake’s Instagram page, who is one of the most smiley dogs, or velvet hippo as her mom calls her, to grace the planet!
Final Thoughts
While all the Pitbull type dogs have an undeniably grisly past, without it they most likely wouldn’t exist. So, pitbull lovers across the world are somewhat thankful for it. Remember that they are all the most commonly found dog breeds in rescue shelters. If you are thinking about welcoming one of these pups into your home, then please consider adoption!
Despite their past, they are some of the sweetest canine souls around. They absolutely love humans, more than anything. All they need is a warm home and a master who will invest time in training and exercising them. So now you are equipped with the knowledge about what a Pitbull type dog is, and who they are, and if you are after a loyal canine who will be forever at your side, then look no further than these adorable sweet dogs!
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FAQs
What are the 5 types of Pitbull? ›
- American Pit Bull Terrier.
- American Staffordshire Terrier.
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
- American Bulldog.
- American Bully.
Pit bull
How can you tell the difference in pitbull breeds? ›- Weigh your pitbull. Pitbull breeds vary greatly in size. ...
- Examine the head of your pitbull. ...
- Don't depend on the length of the fur to tell you what kind of pitbull you have. ...
- Ask your veterinarian what kind of pitbull you have. ...
- Check any papers that came with your pitbull.
Personality: Most pit bulls are fun-loving companions, gentle and patient with all their family members (with the very likely exception of other pit bulls). As with all breeds, there are exceptions. Pit bulls were bred to be courageous and game, to continue whatever they are doing in the face of adversity.
What 3 breeds make a pitbull? ›Thus, in a technical sense, “pit bull” refers to a dog whose ancestors were Bull-and-Terrier type dogs once used for dog fighting. The specific breeds included in this technical definition are: American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
What 2 breeds makes a pitbull? ›A pit bull is a fighting dog developed in 19th-century England, Scotland, and Ireland from bulldog and terrier ancestry for hunting.
What looks like a pitbull but isn t? ›When it comes to appearance, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier (or American Staffordshire Terrier) is the dog breed that most closely resembles a pitbull. They are the most common dog to be mistaken for a pitbull because they have a similar body and head shape, as well as a large neck.
What is the rarest color of Pitbull? ›According to the American Pit Bull Registry, Merle Pitbulls are by far the rarest, which explains the sharp rise in the demand for these Pits. Pitbull owners love the unique color variations of the merle Pit and its blue crystal eyes that are caused by the merle dominant allele in the M locus.
Which Pitbull is the friendliest? ›Staffordshire Bull Terrier
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 can be prone to separation anxiety.
Hulk is a crossbreed. He was born from a pit bull and an English bulldog, which may contribute to his gigantic size. Probably the most important question regarding Hulk is “What do you feed a 175 pound pit bull?” The answer: 4 pounds of ground beef.
What is a black and white pitbull called? ›
There are only two pitbull breeds that produce black and white coats that are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). These are the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
What is the rarest type of pitbull? ›For years the typical Pitbull has been seen in black, white, blue, red, fawn, brown and brindle. However, the most special and rarest of them all is the tri-color. Tri-color Pitbulls have a coat that is made of three colors.
How can you tell a blue nose pitbull? ›How to know if you have a REAL Blue Nose Pit bull! - YouTube
What is a Gotti pitbull? ›A Gotti Pitbull is an American Pitbull Terrier belonging to the Gottiline bloodline. This line quickly became one of the most popular dog breeds among American bullies.
Why do pit bulls cuddle so much? ›Pitbulls tend to be oversized lap dogs, loving nothing more than to put as much of their body in contact with their favorite person as possible. Pitbulls are likely so cuddly in part because they are such physical dogs.
Do pitbulls bark a lot? ›American Pit Bull Terriers bark a moderate amount, although they do not generally bark without reason. You can expect barking from this breed when they feel alert, protective, bored, provoked, scared, excited, or threatened.
Are male or female pitbulls better? ›If you have children in the house, male Pitbulls are much better playmates than their female counterparts. But the female Pitbulls are much calmer and less clumsy, which is excellent if you intend to bring them to family outings. If you have a cat or other pets in the house, it would be smarter to get a male Pitbull.
Are pitbulls smart dogs? ›American Pit Bull Terriers are devoted and loyal to their family and will, if necessary, defend them to the death. These dogs are extremely intelligent and learn commands and tricks with ease. They have a zest for life and love to be involved in everything going on around them.
What is a gator pitbull? ›What Is the Gator Pitbull? The Gator Pitbull Bloodline is a very impressive one and the sole purpose of breeding this dog was to produce a champion fighter dog. However, as dog fighting gradually became banned faster than wildfire in many parts of the world, many people started exploiting other attributes of this dog.
Is American Bully the same as a pitbull? ›The American Bully was started by crossing the American Pit Bull Terrier with other dogs in the bully breed family and sometimes dogs outside the bully family. The American Bully is becoming its own breed, and is not the same breed as the American Pit Bull Terrier (APBT).
What are the short stocky pitbulls called? ›
Pocket Pitbull is a mixed dog breed-a cross of the American Pitbull Terrier and the Patterdale Terrier, also known as Miniature Pitbull. It's a small-sized dog breed at about 12 to 16 inches tall, weighing between 11 to 22 pounds. The lifespan of the Mini Pitbull is around 11 to 13 years.
Is my dog a staffy or pitbull? ›The main differences between Staffordshire bull terriers and Pitbulls are size, color, temperament, and the shape of their face. Pitbulls are much larger and taller than Staffordshire bull terriers. They also have a lean and muscular build and have various colors and markings.
What owning a pitbull says about you? ›Pit Bulls. Pit bulls have a strong desire to please and will do anything for their family or friends. Pit bull owners are courageous, full of vitality, and are constantly looking out for those they love. They enjoy being around children and make excellent parents and grandparents.
What looks like a pitbull but bigger? ›Boxer. Boxers can look like Pit Bulls, depending on their breeding. They usually are only a couple of inches taller than an average Pit Bull, standing at about 25 inches tall and sharing similar color patterns. In good shape, these dogs are quite muscular and have a distinctive square jaw.
Is a Cane Corso a pitbull? ›Are Cane Corsi and Pit Bulls Related? They are distantly related in that both breeds, like all domestic dogs, can claim the wolf as a common ancestor. However, Cane Corsi were developed from Italian Molossers while Pit Bulls were created from Bulldogs and Terriers.
What mixed breeds look like pit bulls? ›- Number 1. Bull Terrier.
- Number 2. Boxer. ...
- Number 3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier. ...
- Number 4. American Bulldog. ...
- Number 5. Bullmastiff. ...
- Number 6. Presa Canario. ...
- Number 7. Dogo Argentino. ...
- Number 8. Cane Corso.
A champagne XL Pitbull is a dog of an American Bully breed that comes in champagne color. American Bullies are a breed of large Pitbulls. Some of them are even known as XXL Pitbulls!
What color eyes do Pitbulls have? ›So, what color eyes can Pit Bulls officially have? Eye color may range from very dark brown to dark hazel and even green.
What are silver Pitbulls called? ›Seal Pitbull
The Pitbull Seal has a coat that appears almost black at first glance. However, you will notice the chocolate or even silver hue of their beautiful fur in bright light. In addition, their tail and legs are often darker than the central part of their coat.
Colby Pitbulls
The most popular bloodline when it comes to Pitbulls is the Colby Pitbull. This particular bloodline originated 100 years ago. It's their physical features and general temperament that makes Colby Pitbulls popular, well-respected, and loved.
Are pitbulls easy to train? ›
Pit bulls, as a group, are intelligent dogs, soft to their owners and relatively easy to train as they are eager to please their owners. With all phases of training, praise is a key element when it comes to the pit bull. Positive methods will work best for training this breed.
What is the biggest pitbull? ›The BIGGEST PITBULL In The World - YouTube
Do pit bulls just snap? ›Pit bulls, like all other types of dogs, do not suddenly snap without reason. Pit bulls bite more than any other breed. There is no system in place to track statistics on dog bites and attacks accurately in the U.S., and many incidents are never reported.
What color is Merle in a pitbull? ›Merle Pitbulls have a coat that is covered with unique swirls and blotches of color. This pattern often has dark blotches of black, red or brown on top of lighter shades of blue, liver, or tan. This is a very popular, but rare color in pitties.
How big is Kong the pitbull? ›In a world full of dog aficionados, the presence of a 175 lbs Pitbull did not go unnoticed. The Hulk got crazy amounts of publicity because of this and that attention has trickled down well to Kong. From newspapers to TV channels, everyone covered these gigantic dogs and their story.
How much is a pure black pitbull? ›Black Pitbulls can vary in price, and depending on the bloodlines, they will cost anywhere between $2,000 and $20,000.
Do all pitbulls have white on their chest? ›Not all Pitbulls have white chests because the color of a Pitbull's coat and any marking on its body mainly depend on the dog's bloodline and genetics. However, it's usually more common for Pitbulls with black, fawn, blue fawn, tan, buckskin, liver, and brindle coats to have white chests.
Is an all white pitbull rare? ›The white Pitbull is a variation of the Pitbull breeds. Although it is rare, an all-white Pitbull is considered a standard coat color and not a product of albinism. Contrary to an albino dog, a white Pitbull has a more noticeable skin pigmentation and colored eyes.
How much is a blue nose pitbull worth? ›The Blue Nose color is in high demand and can be quite difficult to find. This makes it one of the most expensive Pitbull colors. You can expect to pay at least $1,000 for a puppy, but prices may run to $3,000.
Are blue nose pitbulls real? ›A blue nose pitbull is a color variation within the American pit bull terrier breed. The color comes from a recessive gene, which means that it is very rare. They are a grayish-purple color and have a nose the same color as their coat as well as blue eyes. It is also common to have white markings.
What is a blue nose pitbull mixed with? ›
The Blue Nose Pitbull are either, American Pitbull Terriers or American Staffordshire Terriers, or a mix of both. Blue Nose Pitbulls have specific genes to make their coat a blue-like color. They are rare dogs because the coloring is caused by a recessive gene.
What is a brindle pitbull look like? ›The Brindle Pitbull is a muscular, medium-sized dog with a brindle coat color, wide-set small eyes and short floppy rounded ears. Brindle is one of several color variations within the Pit-bull dog breed; not a separate dog breed.
Are all GREY pitbull blue nose? ›Sometimes They Are Grey; Sometimes Not
Now, like the blue nose, the grey coloring is a recessive genetic trait, so it doesn't always happen. There is a debate about whether the colors grey and silver naturally occur in the American Pit Bull Terrier breed.
When comparing a Red Nose Pit Bull to a Blue Nose, there's not too much of a difference. And that's because they're from the exact same family of dogs. It's just the coloring of their coat that really sets them apart.
What is a Razor Edge Pitbull? ›Razor Edge Pitbulls were bred with more giant heads and chests thanks to the English Bulldogs in their bloodline. In addition, their legs are often compact, and they have shorter backs than a purebred American Pit Bull Terrier. These dogs come in several varieties.
What is a greyline pitbull? ›Greyline Pit Bull Characteristics
Greyline pit bulls are bred for working ability, speed and agility. Such animals are often gray and white in color, and have widely spaced front legs, with an almost bowlegged front profile.
Merle pit bulls are simply pit bulls who display the merle color mutation. The merle color pattern varies greatly, but it typically causes dogs to have patches and swirls of both full and diluted colors. Unfortunately, the merle gene can also cause other changes in a dog's appearance and health.
Do Pitbulls pick one person? ›Pit bulls are loyal, protective and people-oriented, but they do not reserve their loyalty for just one person. While they will show favor to their master, pit bulls can be rehomed and learn to bond with new people. In the family context, they've got plenty of love and loyalty to go around.
Do Pitbulls like to sleep with their owners? ›As a general rule most Pitbulls will like to sleep with their owners. Whether that is relaxing on the couch or overnight in the same bed as you. Pitbulls are very affectionate and protective dogs that love to cuddle with their owners. In fact, this is why your Pitbull will often sleep on you.
Why do Pitbulls lick their owners? ›Licking is normal behavior for Pitbulls and all dogs in general. Licking is normal for all dogs, especially affectionate dogs like Pit bulls. When Pit bulls lick their owners or their loved ones, it's mostly to show love and affection. It is how they tell you they love you.
Why does my Pitbull scream? ›
In summary, dogs scream for several reasons: anxiety, seizures, excitement, physical injuries, and pain. Acute infections such as otitis media and chronic medical disorders such as arthritis can also cause screaming.
Do Pitbulls like water? ›Do Pitbulls like water? Most Pitbulls love the water, even if they aren't great swimmers. Pitbulls enjoy wallowing in mud, wading through shallow water, and playing with sprinklers and hoses, but their physical build and musculature mean that they have trouble swimming and may not be able to stay afloat well.
Are Pitbulls good off leash? ›Pit Bulls are very active dogs that need a LOT of run around time and exercise, but are generally not compatible with off-leash dog parks. Don't get a young Pit Bull if you live your life in the slow lane. Pit Bulls Love Kids.
Which Pitbull is the friendliest? ›Staffordshire Bull Terrier
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 can be prone to separation anxiety.
Recently, psychologists performed a study on dog behavior and learned without a doubt that dogs do get jealous. Whether it's jealousy as humans experience it, or an offshoot of deeply ingrained dog behavior like resource guarding or redirected excitement, dogs do feel envy.
Do pitbulls have a favorite person? ›They will take a strong liking towards their owners and the alpha in the family. While I would not necessarily call it a favorite in the family or a favorite person, they will definitely have a person that they respect the most and tend to be the most obedient and loyal when they are around.
How do you tell if your dog is a pitbull? ›However, the only way to know whether a dog is one of these breeds is to run a DNA test on the dog–and today's DNA tests aren't exactly cheap. For this reason, most people identify “pit bulls” based on individual visual assessments.
At what age does a pitbull calm down? ›As a whole Pit Bulls will be most active between the ages of 3 to 12 months old. After the first year you will notice your Pit Bull will calm down slightly, typically Pit Bulls will be highly active and not begin to calm down noticeably until after the age of 2. Every dog is different.
What is a Gotti Pitbull? ›A Gotti Pitbull is an American Pitbull Terrier belonging to the Gottiline bloodline. This line quickly became one of the most popular dog breeds among American bullies.
What type of Pitbull is Hulk? ›But Hulk is a little more than the average pit bull. Hulk is a crossbreed. He was born from a pit bull and an English bulldog, which may contribute to his gigantic size. Probably the most important question regarding Hulk is “What do you feed a 175 pound pit bull?” The answer: 4 pounds of ground beef.
What is the rarest Pitbull breed? ›
For years the typical Pitbull has been seen in black, white, blue, red, fawn, brown and brindle. However, the most special and rarest of them all is the tri-color. Tri-color Pitbulls have a coat that is made of three colors.
What two dogs make a bully? ›Bully dogs are descendants from crosses between ancient bulldogs and a variety of British terriers. The crossing of the bulldog and the British terrier produced a breed called the Bull-and-Terrier that combined the muscle power and tenacity of the bulldog with the terrier's alertness, agility and speed.
Which is better bully or Pitbull? ›Pitbulls are known to be easily trainable, whereas the Bully is a bit more stubborn. Both dogs are slightly different when it comes to their training needs and abilities. Pitbulls are very trainable dogs who are both eager to please and intelligent.
What is an XL Pitbull? ›Most Pitbulls measure between 17″ to 21″ and weigh 30 to 60 pounds. American Bully XL, as the name suggests, are larger with males standing at 20″ to 23″ tall at the wither and females at 19″ to 22″. American Bullies XLs can weight 80 to 150 pounds.
How do I tell what kind of pitbull I have? ›- Weigh your pitbull. Pitbull breeds vary greatly in size. ...
- Examine the head of your pitbull. ...
- Don't depend on the length of the fur to tell you what kind of pitbull you have. ...
- Ask your veterinarian what kind of pitbull you have. ...
- Check any papers that came with your pitbull.
According to the American Pit Bull Registry, Merle Pitbulls are by far the rarest, which explains the sharp rise in the demand for these Pits. Pitbull owners love the unique color variations of the merle Pit and its blue crystal eyes that are caused by the merle dominant allele in the M locus.
What kind of dog looks like a pitbull but isn t? ›When it comes to appearance, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier (or American Staffordshire Terrier) is the dog breed that most closely resembles a pitbull. They are the most common dog to be mistaken for a pitbull because they have a similar body and head shape, as well as a large neck.
What breeds make up a pitbull? ›Within the United States the pit bull is usually considered a heterogeneous grouping that includes the breeds American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Bully, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and occasionally the American Bulldog, along with any crossbred dog that shares certain physical ...
How do pitbulls show affection? ›Pitbulls typically show affection by being as close to you as possible. They love to lean, cuddle, and climb into your lap. They are also prone to jumping up and licking your face, wagging their tail with intensity, and gazing lovingly at you while sticking by your side as much as they possibly can.
Why do pitbulls like to sleep under blankets? ›Pitbulls may burrow and sleep under blankets for comfort, to reduce anxiety, to warm up, to mimic their natural den, to smell you, because it reminds them of when they were pups with their mother and littermates, or they simply need a cozy place to rest.
How many breeds of pitbull are there? ›
The four Pitbull type breeds are the American Pitbull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Bully. Despite their vicious reputation and their increased numbers in shelters, they are anything but vicious if they are raised properly.
What breed is my pitbull? ›In fact, "pit bull" isn't a breed, but a term used to describe the American Pit Bull Terrier, the Bull Terrier, the American Staffordshire Terrier, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The bull breeds are often grossly misunderstood.
What is the best pitbull bloodline? ›Colby Pitbulls
The most popular bloodline when it comes to Pitbulls is the Colby Pitbull. This particular bloodline originated 100 years ago. It's their physical features and general temperament that makes Colby Pitbulls popular, well-respected, and loved.
Hulk is a crossbreed. He was born from a pit bull and an English bulldog, which may contribute to his gigantic size. Probably the most important question regarding Hulk is “What do you feed a 175 pound pit bull?” The answer: 4 pounds of ground beef.
Which Pitbull is the friendliest? ›Staffordshire Bull Terrier
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 can be prone to separation anxiety.
There are only two pitbull breeds that produce black and white coats that are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). These are the American Staffordshire Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
What makes a pitbull aggressive? ›Reid says many things can lead to a tendency toward aggression. That includes breeding dogs for protection, dog fighting, social status, or financial gain. Abuse, neglect, chaining, tethering, and inadequate obedience training and supervision also make the list.
What is a Gotti pitbull? ›A Gotti Pitbull is an American Pitbull Terrier belonging to the Gottiline bloodline. This line quickly became one of the most popular dog breeds among American bullies.
What owning a pitbull says about you? ›Pit Bulls. Pit bulls have a strong desire to please and will do anything for their family or friends. Pit bull owners are courageous, full of vitality, and are constantly looking out for those they love. They enjoy being around children and make excellent parents and grandparents.
What is a gator pitbull? ›What Is the Gator Pitbull? The Gator Pitbull Bloodline is a very impressive one and the sole purpose of breeding this dog was to produce a champion fighter dog. However, as dog fighting gradually became banned faster than wildfire in many parts of the world, many people started exploiting other attributes of this dog.
Whats the most expensive pit bull? ›
The most expensive pitbull is White Rhino, a solid white American Bully. This Texas-born pup sold for a jaw-dropping $250,000, making him the priciest pitbull ever sold. Still, most American Bully dogs are costlier than other types of pitbulls.
What does merle Pit look like? ›Merle Pitbulls have a coat that is covered with unique swirls and blotches of color. This pattern often has dark blotches of black, red or brown on top of lighter shades of blue, liver, or tan. This is a very popular, but rare color in pitties. It is so rare that some breeders have sold them for over $35,000!
How much is a XL bully pitbull? ›XL American Bully.
The XL American Bully is the largest class. They look exactly like the Standard Bully, except that they're larger, taller, and heavier. XL American Bullies can be as tall as 23” (58 cm) and can cost between $5,000 and $10,000.
Pit bulls, like all other types of dogs, do not suddenly snap without reason. Pit bulls bite more than any other breed. There is no system in place to track statistics on dog bites and attacks accurately in the U.S., and many incidents are never reported.
What is the largest bull dog? ›Weighing in at around 130 pounds, the Bullmastiff and the Old English Bulldogge are probably the biggest overall Bulldog breeds out there today. With that said, there are several other breeds that tip the scale at over one hundred pounds, including the Alapaha Blue Blood and the Red-Tiger.
How big is Kong the pitbull? ›In a world full of dog aficionados, the presence of a 175 lbs Pitbull did not go unnoticed. The Hulk got crazy amounts of publicity because of this and that attention has trickled down well to Kong. From newspapers to TV channels, everyone covered these gigantic dogs and their story.